Name: Honey Mustard Chicken Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 2 strips Tyson® Lightly Breaded Strips; 3 cups mixed greens; 1/4 cup strawberries, sliced; 1/4 cup blueberries; 1/4 cup raspberries; 1/2 cup grapes; 1/2 avocado, ripe, sliced avocado, ripe, sliced; 1/3 cup toasted almonds; 6 tbsp honey; 1/4 cup Dijon mustard; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 2 tbsp mayonnaise or plain Greek yogurt (optional); pinch pepper; pinch garlic powder; pinch salt

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There’s something truly special about a refreshing Honey Mustard Chicken Salad that just brightens up your day. I still remember the first time I had this delightful dish at a summer picnic. It was a hot day, and the vibrant greens and juicy fruits were a feast for the eyes and the palate. The combination of tender chicken, sweet honey, and zesty mustard was pure magic. Every bite transported me to a sun-soaked garden filled with laughter and good company. Now, I often make it for lunch or dinner, and it never fails to make me smile. This salad is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and simple pleasures.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
20 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
10 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
400 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Blender, Food Processor, Chef’s Knife, Whisk, Mixing Bowl

The Charm of This Honey Mustard Chicken Salad

It’s Refreshing and Light

The Honey Mustard Chicken Salad truly shines during the warmer months. The mix of mixed greens and vibrant fruits creates a refreshing meal that doesn’t weigh you down. It’s perfect for those lazy summer afternoons or as a light dinner option after a long day. You’ll feel revitalized after enjoying this dish!

Perfectly Balanced Flavors

One of the things I love most about this salad is the balance of flavors. The sweetness of the honey complements the tanginess of the Dijon mustard beautifully, creating a dressing that tantalizes your taste buds. Add in the juicy berries and creamy avocado, and you’ve got an explosion of flavors that keeps every bite exciting.

Quick Prep and Cooking

As someone who appreciates efficiency, I can’t stress enough how easy it is to whip up this Honey Mustard Chicken Salad. You can cook the chicken strips in no time, and the rest is just a matter of tossing ingredients together. It’s a fantastic option for those busy weeknights when you still want something healthy and delicious.

Customizable to Your Taste

This salad is incredibly versatile. You can swap out fruits based on your preferences or what’s in season. Like it a little spicier? Add some pepper or even a dash of hot sauce. The inclusion of toasted almonds adds a delightful crunch, but if you prefer walnuts or pecans, go right ahead. This dish can easily adapt to your taste!

Great for Meal Prep

If you’re someone who likes to meal prep, this Honey Mustard Chicken Salad is a perfect candidate. You can make the dressing in advance, keep it separate from the salad, and assemble it fresh when you’re ready to eat. It tastes just as good the next day, making it a great option for lunch at work or school.

What You’ll Need for Honey Mustard Chicken Salad

Creating this vibrant Honey Mustard Chicken Salad involves a wonderful blend of fresh ingredients that each bring something special to the table. The key players include mixed greens, which form the base of the salad, along with juicy berries that add a touch of sweetness. The chicken provides protein, while avocado adds creaminess and richness. Together, these ingredients create a delightful harmony that makes this salad a star on any menu.

2 Tyson® Lightly Breaded Strips: These convenient chicken strips are a great source of protein and add a satisfying crunch to the salad.
3 cups mixed greens: A mix of greens provides a fresh base and essential nutrients, making each bite wholesome.
1/4 cup strawberries, sliced: Sweet and juicy, strawberries bring a burst of flavor and vibrant color to the dish.
1/4 cup blueberries: These tiny powerhouses of antioxidants add sweetness and a pop of juiciness.
1/4 cup raspberries: Tart and refreshing, raspberries balance the sweetness of the other fruits perfectly.
1/2 cup grapes: Their natural sweetness enhances the overall flavor profile while adding a delightful crunch.
1/2 avocado, ripe, sliced: Creamy avocado elevates the salad, giving it richness and an amazing texture.
1/3 cup toasted almonds: The almonds add a nutty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft fruits and greens.
6 tbsp honey: This natural sweetener ties the dressing together and provides a luscious glaze.
1/4 cup Dijon mustard: The tangy kick from Dijon mustard creates a zesty dressing that brings the salad to life.
1 tbsp lemon juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors and enhances the overall taste.
2 tbsp mayonnaise or plain Greek yogurt (optional): This adds creaminess to the dressing, but feel free to omit it for a lighter version.
Pinch pepper: A simple seasoning that amplifies the flavors of the dish.
Pinch garlic powder: A hint of garlic powder adds depth and enhances the overall flavor.
Pinch salt: Essential for balancing and elevating the flavors.

Step by Step Guide for Honey Mustard Chicken Salad

Making this scrumptious Honey Mustard Chicken Salad is as easy as it is delicious. Follow these steps to create a meal that’s sure to impress. Gather your ingredients and let’s dive into the kitchen!

Start by cooking the chicken strips according to the package’s directions. It’s important to ensure they’re cooked thoroughly, getting that golden brown color that adds to the flavor. Allow them to cool for about 5 minutes before cutting them into strips. This will help retain the juices and keep the chicken succulent.
While the chicken is cooling, grab a large bowl and add the mixed greens. This will be the canvas for your salad. Feel free to use whatever greens you love – spinach, arugula, or even a pre-packaged salad mix works well.
Once the chicken has cooled and been sliced, place it on top of the mixed greens. Make sure to distribute it evenly, so every bite has a piece of that flavorful chicken.
Now it’s time to add the berries! Gently scatter the strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and grapes over the chicken and greens. The colors are going to pop, and the sweetness will complement the savory chicken perfectly.
Next, slice the avocado and arrange it artfully on top of the salad. The creamy texture will contrast beautifully with the crunchy almonds and juicy fruits.
Speaking of almonds, sprinkle the toasted almonds over the salad for that perfect crunch. They add not only texture but also a nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients.
For the dressing, combine the honey, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and optional mayonnaise or Greek yogurt in a food processor or blender. A quick pulse will help blend everything into a smooth and creamy dressing. If you prefer a non-creamy version, simply omit the mayo or yogurt and whisk the ingredients together.
Pour your desired amount of dressing over the salad. Don’t be shy – this dressing is what brings everything together! Toss the salad gently, ensuring all the ingredients are coated evenly with that delicious flavor.
Finally, enjoy your Honey Mustard Chicken Salad immediately for the freshest taste. It’s perfect as a light lunch or a delightful dinner.

Things Worth Knowing

Make sure to let the chicken cool before slicing to retain its juiciness.
Feel free to customize the fruits based on what’s in season or your personal favorites.
For a heartier salad, add some quinoa or farro for extra fiber and protein.
Dress the salad just before serving to keep the greens crisp and fresh.

Recipe Notes about Honey Mustard Chicken Salad

Here are some helpful notes to keep in mind when preparing your Honey Mustard Chicken Salad. These tips will ensure you make the most out of your delicious creation!

Storage: If you have leftovers, store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This will keep the greens fresh and prevent sogginess.
Freezing: It’s best not to freeze this salad, as the greens and fruits may not hold up well. Instead, enjoy it fresh!
Pairing: Serve this salad alongside some crusty bread or a whole grain roll for a complete meal.
Variations: Consider adding other proteins like grilled shrimp or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

Great Combinations for Honey Mustard Chicken Salad

When it comes to serving your Honey Mustard Chicken Salad, there are plenty of delicious options to consider. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal experience:

Crusty Bread: Pair this salad with slices of fresh baguette or hearty whole grain bread to soak up any leftover dressing.
Grilled Vegetables: Serve alongside some charred, seasonal vegetables for a more filling meal.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can complement the salad’s flavors and provide a lovely balance.
Picnic Delight: This salad is perfect for outdoor gatherings—just pack it in a picnic cooler!
Light Dinner: It serves beautifully as a light dinner option, especially on warm summer nights.
Lunch Prep: Make it ahead for lunch during busy weekdays; it tastes just as great the next day!

FAQ

Absolutely! The Honey Mustard Chicken Salad can be prepared ahead of time. To keep your salad fresh, store the dressing separately from the salad. This way, the greens remain crisp and don’t get soggy. You can assemble all the ingredients, but it’s best to add the dressing just before serving for optimal freshness.

If you’re looking to boost the protein content of your Honey Mustard Chicken Salad, you can add ingredients like grilled shrimp, chickpeas, or even some hard-boiled eggs. These additions not only enhance the nutritional value but also add unique textures and flavors. Feel free to mix and match to suit your taste!

Yes, this salad is fantastic for meal prep! You can prepare the Honey Mustard Chicken Salad in advance and store it in individual containers. Just remember to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat. This makes it a great option for lunches throughout the week. It tastes just as good on day two!

The beauty of the Honey Mustard Chicken Salad lies in its versatility. You can use a variety of fruits based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. Think about adding sliced peaches, mangoes, or even pomegranate seeds for a burst of flavor. Experimenting with different fruits can make this salad exciting every time!

Conclusion

The Honey Mustard Chicken Salad is truly a delightful dish that combines fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. It’s perfect for those warm summer days or when you need a quick yet satisfying meal. I encourage you to try making this salad for yourself—it’s not just healthy, but also a delicious way to brighten your day with its colorful presentation and delightful taste.