Description
Honey Chicken Salad is a fresh, flavorful, and satisfying dish combining tender chicken with crisp greens, colorful veggies, and a sweet-tangy honey mustard dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
1 cup mixed greens (spinach, arugula, romaine)
1 cup diced vegetables (bell peppers, cucumbers, carrots)
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup honey
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, almonds) – optional
1/4 cup feta cheese or goat cheese – optional
Instructions
- Cook the chicken if not already done, then let cool and shred or dice.
- In a small bowl, whisk honey, olive oil, and Dijon mustard until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced vegetables, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
- Gently fold the cooked chicken into the vegetable mixture.
- Drizzle the honey dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat evenly.
- If using, sprinkle chopped nuts and cheese over the salad and fold in gently.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Optional: Chill salad in the refrigerator for 5 minutes to meld flavors.
- Serve immediately, optionally drizzling with extra dressing.
Notes
Use rotisserie chicken, turkey, or tofu for different protein options.
Add avocado, radishes, or corn for extra flavor and texture.
Add lemon juice or apple cider vinegar for a tangier dressing.
Omit nuts or substitute seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds for nut-free version.
Store leftovers in airtight container in fridge up to 2 days.
Do not reheat as salad greens will wilt; keep dressing separate if preparing ahead.
Canned or pre-cooked chicken works well for convenience.
Use vegan honey alternatives or maple syrup for vegan version.
Dressing can be made ahead and refrigerated up to a week.
Yellow or whole grain mustard can substitute Dijon mustard.
Add dressing just before serving to prevent sogginess.
Walnuts, almonds, pecans, or cashews are good nut options.
Sliced apples, pears, or grapes add sweetness and texture.
Salad is naturally gluten-free with fresh ingredients.
Double recipe as needed for larger portions.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg