Cranberry Orange Chicken Salad
This vibrant Cranberry Orange Chicken Salad brings together the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors in a nutritious package that’s both satisfying and healthy. The combination of tender chicken, tart cranberries, and bright citrus creates a refreshing salad that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.
Our Healthy cranberry orange chicken salad recipe with mixed greens transforms simple ingredients into an elegant dish that’s packed with protein, fiber, and antioxidants. The homemade orange vinaigrette adds a fresh, zesty touch that complements the natural sweetness of the cranberries and the savory chicken perfectly. This recipe is versatile enough for casual family meals yet impressive enough for entertaining guests.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🍽️ Perfect Flavor Balance: Sweet cranberries, tangy orange, and savory chicken create a delicious harmony
- ⏱️ Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with simple preparation steps
- ✨ Nutrient-Packed: High in protein, fiber, and vitamins for a healthy meal
- 👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly: Appeals to both adults and children with its bright, fresh flavors
Cranberry Orange Chicken Salad
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 oranges, peeled and segmented
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice (from 1 orange)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from heat, let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into thin strips.
- Prepare the orange vinaigrette: In a small bowl, whisk together fresh orange juice, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and 1/3 cup olive oil until emulsified. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large salad bowl, combine mixed greens, dried cranberries, sliced almonds, crumbled feta cheese, red onion slices, and orange segments. Toss gently to distribute ingredients evenly.
- Arrange the sliced chicken strips over the salad mixture. Drizzle the orange vinaigrette over the entire salad, starting with half and adding more to taste.
- Toss the Healthy cranberry orange chicken salad recipe with mixed greens gently just before serving to ensure all ingredients are lightly coated with dressing without wilting the greens.
- Divide among four plates and serve immediately. For meal prep, keep dressing separate and assemble just before eating to maintain freshness.
💡 CHEF’S TIP: For extra flavor, toast the sliced almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. This enhances their nutty flavor and adds a wonderful crunch to your Cranberry Orange Chicken Salad.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Fiber | 6 g |
| Sugar | 24 g |
| Sodium | 380 mg |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the preparation. For fresh cranberries, simmer 1 cup with 1/4 cup orange juice and 2 tablespoons honey for 10 minutes until they pop and soften. Let cool completely before adding to the salad. Dried cranberries provide convenience and concentrated sweetness, while fresh offer a more tart flavor profile.
How long does this chicken salad keep in the refrigerator?
The assembled salad is best enjoyed immediately, but components can be stored separately for 3-4 days. Keep cooked chicken, dressing, and dry ingredients (cranberries, almonds, cheese) in separate airtight containers. The mixed greens should be stored with a paper towel to absorb moisture. Assemble just before serving for optimal freshness.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Simply omit the feta cheese or replace it with dairy-free alternatives like nutritional yeast, vegan feta, or additional nuts for texture. The orange vinaigrette is naturally dairy-free, making this an easy adaptation. You could also add avocado slices for creaminess without dairy.
Conclusion
This Cranberry Orange Chicken Salad offers the perfect combination of vibrant flavors, nutritious ingredients, and simple preparation that makes it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions. The Healthy cranberry orange chicken salad recipe with mixed greens delivers a satisfying meal that’s both delicious and good for you, proving that healthy eating can be incredibly flavorful.
We encourage you to try this recipe and experience how the sweet-tart cranberries, bright citrus, and tender chicken create a symphony of flavors that will become a regular in your meal rotation. Don’t forget to experiment with seasonal variations—adding apples in fall or strawberries in summer can create delightful new versions of this versatile salad.
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