Oh my gosh, you have to try this harvest chicken salad with maple Dijon dressing recipe! It’s my go-to when I want something that feels fancy but takes literally 10 minutes to throw together. The magic is in that dressing – sweet maple syrup and tangy Dijon mustard create this incredible flavor dance that makes every bite exciting. I first made it last fall when I had leftover chicken and some apples that needed using, and now it’s in my regular rotation. Perfect for those days when you want something fresh and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you taste that sweet-tangy dressing coating the crisp apples and tender chicken, you’ll be hooked!

Why You’ll Love This Harvest Chicken Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing Recipe

Listen, this isn’t just another chicken salad – it’s the kind of recipe that’ll make you feel like a kitchen genius with minimal effort. Here’s why it’s my absolute favorite:

• Quick as a wink – 10 minutes flat from fridge to table (perfect for those “I forgot to make lunch” emergencies)
• Flavor fireworks – that maple-Dijon combo hits all the right notes: sweet, tangy, and just a little bit fancy
• No cooking required (unless you count opening the maple syrup bottle as cooking)
• Endlessly adaptable – swap ingredients based on what’s in your fridge or pantry
• Healthy-ish but doesn’t taste like “diet food” – the perfect balance of protein, crunch, and freshness

Seriously, this salad has saved me from countless boring lunches and last-minute dinner dilemmas. It’s my not-so-secret weapon!

Ingredients for Harvest Chicken Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing

Okay, let’s talk ingredients – and I promise, nothing too fancy here! The magic of this salad is how simple, everyday items come together to make something special. Here’s exactly what you’ll need (and yes, I’ve included all my little prep notes because details matter!):

• 2 cups cooked chicken – shredded or diced (I’m team shredded because it holds the dressing better, but cubes work if you’re in a hurry. Rotisserie chicken is my lazy-day hero!)
• 1/2 cup diced apples – any crisp variety you like (I’m obsessed with Honeycrisp for their perfect sweet-tart balance)
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries – the chewy little flavor bombs that make every bite interesting
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans – toast them for 3 minutes if you want next-level flavor (walnuts work too if that’s what’s in your pantry)
• 2 tbsp red onion – finely diced (we want flavor without overwhelming onion breath!)
• 2 cups mixed greens – whatever mix you love (I go for baby spinach and arugula for some peppery bite)

For the Maple Dijon Dressing:

• 2 tbsp olive oil – the good stuff, since it’s not getting cooked
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard – the grainy kind adds amazing texture
• 1 tbsp pure maple syrup – none of that pancake syrup imposter stuff!
• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar – just enough tang to balance the sweetness
• Salt and pepper – to taste (I’m generous with the pepper – it really makes the flavors pop)

See? Nothing crazy – just good ingredients prepped right. Now let’s make some magic!

How to Make Harvest Chicken Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing

Alright, let’s get to the fun part – making this gorgeous salad come together! I’ll walk you through each step because, honestly, the technique matters just as much as the ingredients here. Don’t worry – it’s all super simple, but I’ve got some little tricks that’ll make all the difference in your final dish.

Step 1: Combine the Salad Ingredients

Grab your largest mixing bowl – we want room to toss everything without making a mess! Add your cooked chicken first (shredded or diced – your call!). Then comes the diced apples – make sure they’re all about the same size so you get that perfect crunch in every bite. Toss in those jewel-toned cranberries and your chopped pecans (toasted if you’re feeling fancy!). Last, sprinkle in that finely diced red onion – remember, small pieces mean flavor without the bite!

Step 2: Prepare the Maple Dijon Dressing

Now for the star of the show! In a small bowl, whisk together your olive oil and Dijon mustard until they’re completely combined – this might take 30 seconds of vigorous whisking. Then drizzle in that glorious maple syrup and apple cider vinegar. Keep whisking until the dressing is smooth and slightly thickened. Tip: Dip a spoon in – if it coats the back evenly, you’re golden! Taste it (my favorite part) – it should be perfectly balanced between sweet and tangy. For more on the benefits of Dijon mustard, check out this article on Healthline.

Step 3: Assemble and Serve

Time to bring it all together! Pour about half the dressing over your chicken mixture and gently toss with clean hands or salad tongs. The key here is gentle – we want everything coated, not smashed! Add more dressing until it’s just right (I usually use about 3/4 of it). Season with salt and pepper to taste – don’t skip this! The flavors really pop with proper seasoning. Serve immediately over a bed of fresh mixed greens, with extra dressing on the side for those who want it (like me!).

Tips for the Best Harvest Chicken Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing

After making this salad more times than I can count, I’ve picked up some tricks that take it from good to “oh-my-gosh-can-I-have-the-recipe” amazing:

• Rotisserie chicken is your friend – saves time and adds incredible flavor (just remove the skin first!)
• Toast those nuts – 3 minutes in a dry pan makes the pecans taste like little flavor explosions
• Dress it right before serving – keeps the apples crisp and greens from wilting
• Taste as you go – add more maple syrup if you like it sweeter, extra vinegar for more tang
• Store leftovers separately – keep undressed salad in one container, dressing in another (lasts 2 days this way)

Trust me, these little touches make all the difference between a good salad and one you’ll crave weekly!

Variations for Harvest Chicken Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easily you can mix it up based on what’s in your kitchen! Feeling fancy? Crumble some goat cheese over the top – the creamy tang is incredible with the sweet dressing. If apples aren’t your thing, try juicy pears or even crisp grapes instead. Out of pecans? Walnuts or toasted almonds work beautifully. I’ve even thrown in quinoa for extra protein when I need a heartier meal. Honestly, this salad is like a blank canvas – don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own!

Serving Suggestions for Harvest Chicken Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing

Oh, the possibilities with this salad! My absolute favorite way is piled high on a toasted baguette – the crunch against that creamy chicken mixture is pure heaven. When I’m feeling extra cozy, I’ll pair it with a warm bowl of butternut squash soup (trust me, the flavors sing together!). For lunch on-the-go, just wrap it up in a whole wheat tortilla with some extra greens – instant portable perfection. And here’s my secret: serve it in endive leaves for fancy appetizers that’ll impress your guests without any fuss. Honestly, I’ve even eaten it straight from the bowl with a fork when I’m feeling particularly hungry – no judgment here!

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Here’s my golden rule for leftovers: store the undressed salad and dressing separately in airtight containers, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days. The apples might soften a bit, but the flavors actually get better! No need to reheat – this salad tastes amazing cold straight from the fridge. Just give it a quick toss before serving again!

Nutritional Information for Harvest Chicken Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing

Each serving of this salad packs about 350 calories, with 18g of healthy fats, 25g of protein, and 22g of carbs. It’s also got 3g of fiber and only 12g of sugar. Keep in mind, nutritional values may vary slightly depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Enjoy guilt-free!

Frequently Asked Questions

I get so many questions about this harvest chicken salad – here are the ones that pop up most often with my tried-and-true answers:

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover Thanksgiving turkey works beautifully here – just chop or shred it the same way. The maple in the dressing pairs perfectly with turkey’s richer flavor.

How can I make it dairy-free?
Good news – this recipe is naturally dairy-free as written! Just double-check your Dijon mustard ingredients if you’re super sensitive (some brands contain trace amounts).

What if I don’t have apple cider vinegar?
No worries! White wine vinegar or lemon juice make fine substitutes in a pinch. You might need to adjust the sweetness slightly to balance the sharper acidity.

Can I prep this ahead for meal prep?
Yes! Keep components separate – store undressed salad for up to 2 days, dressing in a small jar. The apples will stay crisper this way. Toss together right before eating.

Is there a nut-free option?
Of course! Skip the pecans or swap in sunflower seeds for that satisfying crunch without the nuts.

Share Your Harvest Chicken Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing Experience

I’d love to hear how your harvest chicken salad turns out! Did you add your own twist? Maybe swap the pecans for walnuts or throw in some goat cheese? Leave a comment below, rate the recipe, and share your creations. Your ideas might just inspire my next batch – let’s keep the deliciousness going!

10-Minute Harvest Chicken Salad with Maple Dijon Dressing Recipe

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• Author: Christina R. Jones
• Total Time: 10 mins
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Calorie

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Description

A flavorful and nutritious chicken salad with a sweet and tangy maple Dijon dressing, perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1/2 cup diced apples
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans
• 2 tbsp red onion, finely diced
• 2 cups mixed greens
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, apples, cranberries, pecans, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, and apple cider vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss gently to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve over mixed greens.

Notes

• Use rotisserie chicken for a quick option.
• Substitute walnuts for pecans if preferred.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 0 mins
• Category: Salad
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 280mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: harvest chicken salad, maple Dijon dressing, easy salad recipe, healthy lunch