Description
Winter Cranberry Chicken Salad is a delightful and nutritious dish that beautifully encapsulates the essence of the colder months. This vibrant salad features tender, juicy chicken paired with tart cranberries, crunchy toasted nuts, and fresh spinach, all enveloped in a creamy dressing that adds a touch of indulgence. Perfect for festive gatherings or cozy dinners at home, this dish offers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will excite your palate. With its easy preparation and healthy ingredients, it’s an excellent choice for meal prep or as a refreshing lunch option. Embrace the warmth of winter with every delicious bite.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 cup dried cranberries (unsweetened if preferred)
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (toasted)
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper and bake for 20-25 minutes until fully cooked. Let cool before cubing.
- In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, honey, mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper for the dressing.
- In a large bowl, combine spinach, cranberries, nuts, and cubed chicken. Toss gently.
- Drizzle with dressing just before serving; mix until well coated.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salad (330g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider incorporating seasonal fruits like sliced apples or pomegranate seeds. To make this dish vegetarian-friendly, substitute grilled tofu or chickpeas for the chicken.