This delightful and vibrant salad combines fresh, crisp Honeycrisp apples, creamy avocado, and savory chicken breast, all tossed with mixed greens and arugula. Dried cranberries add a sweet-tart contrast, while crumbled feta brings a rich, tangy flavor. Topped with crunchy, cinnamon-sweet candied pecans and drizzled with a zesty white wine vinaigrette, this salad is a perfect balance of textures and tastes. Ideal as a light lunch or a hearty dinner, this nutrient-packed salad will impress any guest or serve as a wholesome family meal.

How to Make It:

Prepare the Candied Pecans: In a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter and stir in sugar, water, salt, and cinnamon. Add the pecans, stirring continuously for 5-10 minutes until the mixture thickens and the pecans are lightly caramelized and browned. Transfer the pecans to parchment paper or a silicone mat to cool completely.

Cook the Chicken Breasts: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper (optional). Cook them in a skillet over medium heat with a little olive oil until fully cooked (about 6-8 minutes per side). Slice thinly and set aside.

Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until emulsified. Set aside.

Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl or serving platter, spread the mixed greens and arugula. Layer on the sliced avocado, Honeycrisp apples, sliced chicken, dried cranberries, and crumbled feta. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Just before serving, top the salad with the cooled candied pecans for added crunch and sweetness.

Ingredients Breakdown:

• Mixed Greens & Arugula: A nutrient-dense base rich in vitamins A, C, and K, with a peppery flavor from the arugula.

• Avocado: Adds creaminess, healthy fats, and fiber, making the salad more filling.

• Honeycrisp Apples: Sweet, crisp apples bring a refreshing, juicy crunch to balance the savory elements.

• Chicken Breasts: Lean protein that makes the salad satisfying and helps maintain muscle health.

• Dried Cranberries: A touch of tart sweetness, adding antioxidants and natural sugars.

• Feta Cheese : A rich, tangy cheese that provides a savory, salty contrast.

• Candied Pecans: Sweet, crunchy nuts that add depth of flavor and texture.

Dressing:

• Olive Oil: A source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.

• White Wine Vinegar : Adds acidity and tang, balancing the richness of the other ingredients.

• Dijon Mustard: A zesty element that helps emulsify the dressing.

• Salt & Black Pepper: Enhances the flavors of the dressing and the entire salad.