chicken cherry salad recipe

The Best chicken cherry salad recipe

I’m so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite recipes: chicken cherry salad. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and I just can’t get enough of it.

The combination of juicy chicken, sweet cherries, and crunchy greens is a match made in heaven. I first discovered this recipe on a food blog many years ago, and I’ve been tweaking it ever since to make it my own.

My kids love it when I serve it as a main course or as a side dish at family gatherings. One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal cooking time, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

The key to this recipe is using high-quality ingredients, especially the cherries, which add a burst of flavor and texture to each bite. My family and I love the way the flavors meld together in this salad, creating a delicious and satisfying experience every time we eat it.

I’ve even started using this recipe as a base for other salads, adding different ingredients like nuts, seeds, or even grilled chicken for added protein. What I love most about this recipe is that it’s adaptable to any occasion or dietary need.

Chicken Cherry Salad

4.6 from 1585 votes

A refreshing salad combining tender chicken with sweet cherries and crunchy pecans. Tossed in a light cherry vinaigrette, this dish is perfect for a summer lunch or light dinner.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time30 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Salad

2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
4 cups mixed salad greens
1/2 cup pecans, toasted
1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

For the Vinaigrette

1/4 cup cherry juice
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
1/4 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a small bowl, whisk together cherry juice, balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
2Set aside to allow flavors to meld.
3In a large salad bowl, combine mixed greens, shredded chicken, halved cherries, toasted pecans, and crumbled feta cheese.
4Toss gently to distribute ingredients evenly.
5Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss again until all components are lightly coated.
6Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

🔧Equipment

Large salad bowl
Small bowl
Whisk
Knife
Cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 65mg🧂Sodium: 420mg🌾Total Carbs: 18g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 12g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

For a dairy-free version, omit the feta cheese or substitute with a vegan alternative. To add crunch, include sliced almonds or sunflower seeds.

This chicken cherry salad is always a hit with my family and friends. It’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or even just a quick weeknight dinner.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is that you can customize it to your taste by adding your favorite nuts, seeds, or even grilled chicken for added protein. Plus, the leftovers make an excellent lunch for the next day – simply refrigerate or freeze until ready.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Cherry Salad

Q: What type of chicken is best for this recipe?

I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe because they’re leaner and easier to cook evenly.

Q: Can I use fresh or frozen cherries?

Both work well! Fresh cherries are preferred for their sweetness and juiciness, but frozen cherries will do in a pinch.

Q: How do I prevent the salad from becoming too soggy?

To avoid sogginess, be sure to pat dry the chicken thoroughly before adding it to the salad mixture.

Q: Can I substitute other types of greens for the lettuce?

Feel free to mix up your greens with arugula, spinach, or even kale – just be sure they’re fresh and not wilted!

Q: How long does this salad keep in the fridge?

This salad will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days; just be sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

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