Description
Winter cranberry chicken salad is a festive and wholesome dish, perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner. This vibrant salad features tender chicken, tart cranberries, and crunchy walnuts, all tossed together with fresh greens and a light balsamic vinaigrette.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh cranberries (or dried)
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (spinach, arugula, romaine)
- ½ cup toasted walnuts
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup balsamic vinaigrette
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Preheat your grill or skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked (165°F internal temperature).
- Let It Rest: Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Slice the Chicken: Cut the rested chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
- Toss Your Salad: In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, sliced red onion, cranberries, walnuts, and sliced chicken. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette.
- Serve It Up: Gently toss all ingredients until evenly coated in dressing and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling/Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Choose high-quality, fresh ingredients for the best flavor. For added sweetness or crunch, consider adding sliced apples or feta cheese. If making ahead, store in an airtight container without dressing to maintain freshness.