Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite summer snack: cranberry chicken salad on apple slices! This dish is not just a salad; it’s a delightful explosion of flavors and textures that’ll have you coming back for more. The sweet crunch of the apple slices perfectly complements the creamy, tangy chicken salad, making it a refreshing treat on a hot day. I love making this when I have leftover chicken because it’s so quick and easy—just toss everything together and you’re ready to impress! Plus, it’s gluten-free, which means everyone can enjoy it at gatherings. Trust me, once you try this cranberry chicken salad on apple slices, you’ll want to make it all the time!

Ingredients for Cranberry Chicken Salad on Apple Slices

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious cranberry chicken salad on apple slices:

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (I usually use rotisserie chicken for ease!)
1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought—whatever you prefer!)
1/2 cup chopped celery (adds that perfect crunch!)
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (for a nutty flavor that complements everything)
1/4 cup mayonnaise (this brings it all together)
4 large apples, sliced (I love using honeycrisp or Fuji for their sweetness and crunch!)

Feel free to mix and match your apple varieties, but trust me, the sweetness really elevates the flavors in this dish! You can even experiment with different types of nuts if walnuts aren’t your thing. Just keep it simple and fresh, and you’ll be golden!

How to Prepare Cranberry Chicken Salad on Apple Slices

Getting this cranberry chicken salad on apple slices ready is a breeze! You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can put it all together. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a refreshing dish that everyone will love.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Toss in your shredded chicken, cranberry sauce, chopped celery, chopped walnuts, and mayonnaise. I like to use a spatula here to get everything mixed perfectly.
Stir it all together until the chicken is well-coated in the cranberry sauce and mayonnaise. This should take just a minute or so—no need to overmix, just enough to combine the flavors!
Next, slice your apples into thick rounds. Aim for about half an inch; this way, they’re sturdy enough to hold the salad without getting mushy. If you’re using honeycrisp or Fuji apples, you’re in for a treat!
Now, for the fun part! Spoon a generous amount of your chicken salad onto each apple slice. Don’t be shy—load them up! Each bite should be a delightful mix of creamy chicken and crunchy apple.
Serve immediately for the best taste! Trust me, the freshness of the apples really shines when they’re just sliced. This dish is best enjoyed right away, so gather your friends and dig in!

And there you have it—quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious! Enjoy the vibrant flavors and textures that make this dish such a winner!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick preparation—ready in just 15 minutes!
Refreshing flavors that burst in your mouth with every bite.
Made with healthy ingredients, perfect for a guilt-free snack.
Gluten-free, so everyone can join in on the fun.
Ideal for gatherings, picnics, or just a light lunch at home!

Tips for Success

To take your cranberry chicken salad on apple slices to the next level, here are a few pro tips! First, don’t hesitate to customize the mix! You can swap out walnuts for pecans or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. If you like a bit of zing, toss in some diced green apples or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.

For presentation, serve the apple slices on a colorful platter, and drizzle a little extra cranberry sauce over the top for that wow factor. If you’re making this for a gathering, consider prepping the salad ahead of time and assembling it just before serving to keep the apples crisp. And remember, this dish shines when it’s fresh, so enjoy it soon after making!

Nutritional Information

Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. This is just an estimate for one serving, which includes one apple slice topped with cranberry chicken salad:

Calories: 150
Fat: 7g
Protein: 8g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 150mg
Fiber: 3g

It’s a delightful and healthy option that packs a punch of flavor without the guilt! Enjoy every bite knowing you’re treating yourself right!

FAQ About Cranberry Chicken Salad on Apple Slices

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cranberry chicken salad in advance! Just store it in the fridge and assemble it on the apple slices right before serving to keep those apples crisp and fresh.

What type of apples work best?
I recommend using sweet and crunchy varieties like honeycrisp or Fuji. They hold up well and add a delicious contrast to the creamy chicken salad.

Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey works beautifully in this salad. Just shred it and follow the same instructions for a delightful twist on the classic recipe.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
While the salad itself can be made ahead, I suggest assembling it just before eating to maintain the texture of the apple slices. Prep the salad part in advance for easy assembly later!

How long will the salad keep in the fridge?
The cranberry chicken salad can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just remember, the apples should be added fresh for the best crunch!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To store any leftover cranberry chicken salad, simply transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just remember, the apple slices are best when they’re fresh, so it’s a good idea to slice them just before serving. If you have extra salad, you can enjoy it on its own as a tasty snack!

Reheating isn’t necessary for this dish, as it’s best served cold. So, just scoop out what you need and dive right back in! Enjoy the deliciousness!

Cranberry Chicken Salad on Apple Slices: A Quick, Cozy Delight

Author: Louna
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

Cranberry chicken salad served on apple slices.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup cranberry sauce
1/2 cup chopped celery
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1/4 cup mayonnaise
4 large apples, sliced

Instructions

In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken, cranberry sauce, celery, walnuts, and mayonnaise.
Stir until well combined.
Slice apples into thick rounds.
Spoon the chicken salad onto each apple slice.
Serve immediately.

Notes

Use any variety of apple you prefer.
For added flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt.
This dish is best served fresh.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 apple slice with salad
Calories: 150
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 8g
Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: cranberry chicken salad on apple slices

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