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Fuji Apple Chicken Salad with Creamy Champagne Vinaigrette.

Fuji Apple Chicken Salad with Creamy Champagne Vinaigrette Bliss

Enjoy a vibrant Fuji Apple Chicken Salad with Creamy Champagne Vinaigrette, combining fresh apples, savory chicken, and a creamy dressing for a tasty meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Cooling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 2 pieces Fuji Apples Adds sweetness and crispness; substitute with sweet apples or use apple chips for convenience.
  • 1 cup Pecans Provides a nutty crunch; walnuts or almonds can be substituted.
  • 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar Enhances the sweetness of pecans; optional for a less sweet taste.
  • 1/2 cup Pickled Onions Offers tangy depth; can replace with raw onions, though not recommended.
  • 2 cups Chicken Breast/Thighs Main protein; can be grilled, broiled, or use rotisserie chicken for ease.
  • 4 cups Spring Greens Forms the salad base; any mixed greens or spinach works as a substitute.
  • 1 cup Grape Tomatoes Adds juiciness and acidity; cherry tomatoes are a good alternative.
  • 1/2 cup Gorgonzola Cheese Provides creaminess and flavor; feta or goat cheese can be used as a replacement.
  • to taste Salt and Pepper Enhances overall flavor; use to taste.
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 cup Creamy Champagne Vinaigrette Lends richness and tang; store-bought balsamic dressing can be a quick substitute if needed.

Equipment

  • Oven
  • skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment Paper

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 225°F (107°C). Thinly slice Fuji apples using a mandoline or sharp knife, ensuring uniform thickness for even drying. Arrange the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 1 hour, then flip the apple slices over and return them to the oven for an additional hour until they are fully dried and lightly crisped.
  2. In a medium skillet, heat pecans over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to ensure they toast evenly. Add brown sugar and continue stirring until the nuts are golden brown and fragrant. Once done, transfer the pecans to a sheet of parchment paper to cool completely, allowing the sweetness to crystallize as they cool.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together champagne vinegar, minced garlic, cream, mustard, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste until combined. Gradually whisk in olive oil, creating an emulsion that should appear thick and creamy. Set the creamy champagne vinaigrette aside to allow the flavors to meld together while you assemble the salad.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, toss together spring greens with a light sprinkle of salt and pepper to enhance the flavor at the base of your Fuji Apple Chicken Salad. Layer on the cooked chicken, apple chips, toasted pecans, halved grape tomatoes, and crumbled gorgonzola cheese. Drizzle the creamy champagne vinaigrette generously over the top and gently toss to combine all the delightful ingredients.

Nutrition

Serving: 1saladCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 19gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 8gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 3gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure chicken is cooked thoroughly and tender. If using rotisserie chicken, shred it for even distribution. Prep pickled onions a day in advance for better flavor, and serve immediately after tossing for best texture.

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