Chopped Fall Harvest Salad with Chicken Recipe in 30 Minutes

There’s something undeniably magical about autumn—the brisk air, the golden sunlight slipping through a canopy of red and orange leaves, and the delicious aroma of seasonal ingredients coming together to create something warm and inviting. Enter my Chopped Fall Harvest Salad with Chicken, a dish that not only encapsulates the essence of fall but also brings a delightful crunch, juicy bites, and a zingy kick to your dinner table. Picture crisp romaine lettuce mingling with sweet pears, tart cranberries, and savory chicken, all drizzled with a luscious balsamic vinaigrette—it’s a celebration of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing.

This salad isn’t just a feast for the palate; it’s a visual delight. The colors alone will make you feel like you’re feasting in a cozy autumnal wonderland. Whether you’re gathering with friends for a fall barbecue, warming up from a chilly evening, or simply craving something nutritious yet comforting, this Chopped Fall Harvest Salad with Chicken is about to become your go-to autumn dish. So roll up your sleeves, grab your favorite apron, and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients for Chopped Fall Harvest Salad with Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Chopped Fall Harvest Salad with Chicken:

1 lb chicken breasts – Trimmed and halved lengthwise for quick cooking and tender pieces that absorb flavors beautifully.
1/2 tsp garlic salt – Adds a zesty kick to the chicken, making each bite flavorful. Adjust to taste for personalized seasoning.
1/8 tsp black pepper – Freshly ground for that aromatic punch that brings the dish to life.
1 Tbsp olive oil – Used to sear the chicken, giving it a lovely outer crisp while keeping it juicy inside.
1 head romaine lettuce – Rinsed and dried, this leafy green provides the perfect crunchy base for your salad.
2 pears – Cored and sliced for a sweet, crisp contrast to the savory chicken and tangy dressing.
1 cup dried cranberries – Offering a delightful pop of sweetness that balances the savory and tart components beautifully.
1 cup pecans – Lightly toasted to enhance their nuttiness and add a satisfying crunch to your salad.
1/2 cup feta cheese – Crumbled for a creamy, tangy element that elevates the flavor profile.
3 Tbsp balsamic vinegar – The key ingredient in the dressing, providing a tangy sweetness that ties everything together.
1 Tbsp Dijon mustard – Adds depth and a spicy kick to the dressing, making it exceptionally flavorful.
1 garlic clove – Pressed or finely minced to infuse the dressing with fresh garlic flavor.
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil – Used in the dressing for all those good fats and a silky texture.
1/4 tsp salt – Enhances the overall flavor. Adjust according to your preference.
1/8 tsp black pepper – For a little added spice in the dressing.

How to Make Chopped Fall Harvest Salad with Chicken

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Chopped Fall Harvest Salad with Chicken:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by cutting the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create four thin cutlets. Season both sides generously with garlic salt and black pepper to ensure every bite bursts with flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, carefully place the chicken cutlets in the skillet and sauté them for about 3-4 minutes per side or until they’re fully cooked through and golden.

Step 3: Toast the Pecans
In a separate medium dry skillet, toast the pecans over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until they become fragrant and lightly golden. Be sure to resist the urge to nibble on them while they’re toasting—they’re super tempting!

Step 4: Assemble the Salad
While the chicken rests and cools, grab a large mixing bowl. Combine the chopped romaine, sliced pears, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and crumbled feta. Next, slice the cooked chicken into strips and toss it in with the salad mix.

Step 5: Make the Dressing
In a small mason jar, combine the balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, pressed garlic, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Cover the jar tightly with the lid and shake vigorously until everything is well combined—no more separate ingredients. If you notice any separation later, give it another good shake.

Step 6: Dress Your Salad
Drizzle your homemade balsamic vinaigrette over the salad. Start with a little, then add more to taste, depending on how saucy you like your salads. Toss everything together gently until the dressing evenly coats all the delicious components.

When you’re ready to serve, plate up the salad and enjoy the vibrant tapestry of flavors that this Chopped Fall Harvest Salad with Chicken brings to your table. The combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors will make your taste buds sing!

Now grab a fork, dig in, and prepare to impress your friends and family with a dish that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat. Bon appétit!

Perfecting Chopped Fall Harvest Salad with Chicken Cooking Process

Start by sautéing the chicken to golden perfection first. As the chicken rests, chop your veggies and prepare the dressing, mixing everything together until that vibrant salad is ready to shine.

Add Your Touch to Chopped Fall Harvest Salad with Chicken

Feel free to swap chicken for turkey or use quinoa instead of nuts for a gluten-free option. Add extra veggies like bell peppers or even some creamy avocado for a delightful twist.

Storing & Reheating Chopped Fall Harvest Salad with Chicken

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days. To revive it, just toss it again with a splash of dressing.

Sharing this salad with friends at my last dinner party led to delightful laughter when someone exclaimed, “Can a salad really be this good?” Their empty plates spoke volumes.

FAQs About Chopped Fall Harvest Salad with Chicken

What is Chopped Fall Harvest Salad with Chicken?

Chopped Fall Harvest Salad with Chicken is a vibrant and nutritious dish that combines juicy chicken, fresh seasonal produce, and a delightful mix of textures. This salad features ingredients like crisp romaine lettuce, sweet pears, tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans, all tossed together in a flavorful balsamic vinaigrette. Perfect for any meal, it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings together flavors and colors of the autumn harvest, making it ideal for gatherings and weeknight dinners alike.

How can I customize my Chopped Fall Harvest Salad with Chicken?

Customizing your Chopped Fall Harvest Salad with Chicken is easy and fun! You can swap the chicken for turkey or even roasted chickpeas for a vegetarian twist. Consider adding extra veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, or even some creamy avocado for richness. If you want to make it gluten-free, feel free to use quinoa instead of pecans. The beauty of this salad lies in its versatility—mix and match ingredients based on your personal preferences!

Can I prepare Chopped Fall Harvest Salad with Chicken in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the Chopped Fall Harvest Salad with Chicken in advance, especially if you want to save time during busy days. To do this effectively, store the ingredients separately until you’re ready to serve. Keep the dressing in a jar to add just before tossing everything together. While the salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Just give it a good toss before enjoying.

What are the health benefits of Chopped Fall Harvest Salad with Chicken?

Chopped Fall Harvest Salad with Chicken is packed with health benefits. It contains lean protein from the chicken, which supports muscle growth and repair. The addition of fresh produce like pears and cranberries provides essential vitamins and antioxidants, while pecans add healthy fats and fiber. This combination not only supports overall health but also keeps you feeling full and satisfied. Incorporating this salad into your diet makes for a deliciously balanced meal!

Conclusion for Chopped Fall Harvest Salad with Chicken

In conclusion, the Chopped Fall Harvest Salad with Chicken is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for any occasion. With the ease of preparation and the ability to customize, this salad can be a star attraction at your dinner table. Whether enjoyed fresh, made in advance, or adapted to your taste, its health benefits make it a great choice. Bring the essence of autumn to your meals with this vibrant dish, and watch it become a favorite among friends and family!

Chopped Fall Harvest Salad with Chicken

Enjoy this vibrant Chopped Fall Harvest Salad with Chicken that's perfect for autumn gatherings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 22 minutes mins

Cook Time 8 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Salads

Cuisine: American

Calories: 389

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

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Chicken

• 1 lb chicken breasts, trimmed and halved lengthwise
• 1/2 tsp garlic salt or to taste
• 1/8 tsp black pepper freshly ground
• 1 Tbsp olive oil

Salad Base

• 1 head romaine lettuce rinsed and dried
• 2 pcs pears cored and sliced
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1 cup pecans lightly toasted on a dry skillet
• 1/2 cup feta cheese crumbled

Dressing

• 3 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 clove garlic pressed or finely minced
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/8 tsp black pepper

Equipment

• large skillet
• Medium dry skillet
• Large mixing bowl
• Small mason jar

Method

 

Cooking Chicken

1. Cut chicken breasts in half lengthwise so you have 4 thin cutlets. Season chicken cutlets on both sides with garlic salt and black pepper.
2. Place a large skillet over medium heat with 1 Tbsp olive oil. Add chicken cutlets and sauté 3-4 minutes per side or until fully cooked through. Transfer to a cutting board and let chicken rest while preparing the salad, then slice the chicken into strips.

Toasting Pecans

1. In a medium dry skillet, toast pecans over medium heat for 5 minutes, tossing frequently or until pecans are fragrant and lightly golden. Remove from heat and cool to room temperature.

Assembling Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped romaine, sliced pears, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, crumbled feta, and cooked sliced chicken.
2. Combine dressing ingredients in a small mason jar. Cover with lid and shake vigorously to combine. If any separation occurs, shake again just before using.
3. Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette over the salad, adding it to taste then toss to combine.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 389kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 14gFat: 27g

Notes

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days. Toss again with a splash of dressing before serving leftovers.

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