This easy honey mustard chicken salad combines tender chicken, crisp veggies, and a sweet dressing that makes it taste amazing. Perfect for lunch or a light dinner!
I like to serve it over some fresh greens or in a sandwich. It’s a great way to use leftover chicken, and believe me, everyone will want seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: This is the star of the salad. You can use grilled chicken, rotisserie chicken for convenience, or even leftover chicken. If you’re vegetarian, try chickpeas or tofu instead.
Fresh Spinach or Mixed Greens: Spinach is a great base, but you might also love using kale, arugula, or romaine. Each brings a different taste and crunch to the salad!
Blueberries: Fresh blueberries add a nice burst of sweetness. If they’re out of season, frozen berries work well too. You could swap them for strawberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.
Dried Cherries or Raisins: These add a chewy texture to your salad. If you want, any dried fruit will do—try cranberries, apricots, or figs. They all bring a unique flavor.
Cheese: I love blue cheese for its bold flavor, but feta or goat cheese will work too. For non-dairy, try crumbled tofu or a plant-based cheese substitute.
How Do You Make the Perfect Honey Mustard Dressing?
The honey mustard dressing is what ties this salad together. It’s super easy to make! Just follow these steps:
- Start by whisking together the Dijon mustard and honey in a small bowl.
- Add in your choice of vinegar or lemon juice for some acidity.
- Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking to emulsify the dressing.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. If it’s too sweet, a little more vinegar or lemon juice will balance it!
This dressing is also great for dipping veggies or drizzling on sandwiches. Make extra and store it in the fridge!
Easy Honey Mustard Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or cubed
- 4 cups fresh spinach or mixed salad greens
- 1 cup fresh blueberries
- 1/4 cup dried cherries or raisins
- 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese or feta cheese
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds
- 4 slices cooked bacon, chopped
- 1/4 cup honey mustard dressing (see below)
For the Honey Mustard Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. With a quick whisk of the dressing and simple assembly, you’ll have a fresh and healthy meal that’s ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Honey Mustard Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, vinegar (or lemon juice), olive oil, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Set this aside while you prepare the salad.
2. Prepare the Salad Base:
Grab a large salad bowl and place the fresh spinach or mixed greens at the bottom as your base. This will create a lovely, fresh foundation for your salad.
3. Add the Tasty Ingredients:
Now, evenly sprinkle the cooked chicken, blueberries, dried cherries (or raisins), crumbled blue cheese, slivered almonds, and chopped bacon over the greens. Each ingredient adds beautiful color and flavor!
4. Drizzle on the Dressing:
Take your prepared honey mustard dressing and drizzle it over the entire salad. This will help to bring everything together in a delicious way.
5. Toss and Serve:
Gently toss the salad to combine all the ingredients with the dressing evenly. You want everything to be coated but not mushy. Serve immediately for the best freshness!
This salad offers a delicious balance of flavors and textures, making it a delightful option for lunch or dinner. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Proteins in This Salad?
Absolutely! You can substitute the cooked chicken with grilled shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just be sure to cook the protein thoroughly before adding it to the salad.
What Can I Substitute for Blue Cheese?
If blue cheese isn’t your favorite, feta cheese is a great alternative! You may also use goat cheese for a creamy texture or omit the cheese entirely for a dairy-free option.
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep the salad fresh, store the dressing separately and add it just before serving.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad ahead! Just assemble the veggies and protein, but keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This keeps everything fresh and prevents sogginess.
