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fall chopped salad with chicken recipe

Fall Chopped Salad with Chicken

Owen ParkerOwen Parker
A delightful fall-inspired salad featuring grilled chicken, crisp apples, and a medley of seasonal ingredients perfect for a healthy meal.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Marinate 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Main Course, Salad
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 grill or grill pan
  • 1 Mixing Bowl large
  • 1 Knife sharp

Ingredients
  

Salad

  • 6 cups chopped kale or spinach
  • 1 large apple diced
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/2 cup roasted pecans
  • 1/4 cup red onion thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese

Grilled Chicken

  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tsp dried oregano

Dressing

  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and oregano. Place chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag and pour marinade over them. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  • Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and grill for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Let rest for a few minutes, then slice thinly.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped kale or spinach, diced apple, dried cranberries, roasted pecans, sliced red onion, and crumbled feta cheese.
  • Add the sliced grilled chicken to the salad mixture. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette and toss until well combined.

Serving

  • Serve the salad immediately for the freshest taste and texture. If desired, add more dressing to taste.

Storage

  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep dressing separate to maintain freshness.

Notes

Pro Tips: For a brighter flavor, use freshly squeezed lemon juice in the marinade. Toast pecans before adding to enhance their nuttiness. Prep ingredients in advance for convenience.
Ingredient Substitutions: Substitute feta with goat cheese for a tangier taste. Use walnuts instead of pecans for a different nutty flavor.
How to Serve: Pair with a warm soup or hearty bread for a complete meal.
Storage & Freshness: Store leftovers without dressing to maintain crispness.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare salad components in advance and store separately. Assemble when ready to serve.
Keyword autumn salad, fall chopped salad with chicken, grilled chicken salad