This fresh chicken apple pecan salad recipe combines juicy chicken breast, crisp Granny Smith apples, crunchy pecans, and wholesome ingredients tossed in a creamy dressing. Perfect as an easy lunch or part of your weekly meal plan, it's a delicious twist on classic chicken salad that stores well in an airtight container for meal prep.
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Easy Wholesome Salad
When I want a crisp, refreshing meal that still feels satisfying, I always crave nutty, fruity salads balanced with a tangy dressing. Usually, I'll grab the Market Salad from Chick-fil-A or the Apple Pecan Chicken Salad from Wendy's.
But when I spotted a Blueberry Vanilla Chèvre at Trader Joe's, I knew I had to make my own version at home. This recipe blends juicy chicken, crisp apples, creamy goat cheese, and sweet-tart berries for a wholesome salad that's easy enough for lunch but elegant enough to serve guests.
Chèvre? This is the French word for goat, and it refers to cheeses made from goat's milk. Fresh chèvre has a tangy, slightly earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with fruit and nuts in salads.
Why You'll Like It
- Palette Pleasure: Combines juicy chicken, crisp apple, and creamy goat cheese for a balanced bite.
- Easy Recipe: Uses simple ingredients that are easy to find at the grocery store.
- All-in-One: Makes a quick, nourishing meal perfect for busy days or meal prep.
- Customizable: Flexible enough to swap in seasonal fruit, nuts, or dressings.
- Quick Fix: A lighter option that still delivers big, satisfying flavor.
Fast Food Salad
As a chef, I've always loved the combination of nutty crunch, sweet fruit, and tangy blue or goat cheese in salads. Ordering the Market Salad at Chick-fil-A or Wendy's Apple Pecan Chicken Salad was my go-to, but finding the Blueberry Vanilla Chèvre at Trader Joe's inspired me to create this fresh, homemade version with my own personal twist for an irresistible flavor profile that hits all points.
Flavor Profile
- Crisp and tart from the apple.
- Sweet and tangy from the berries and vinaigrette.
- Nutty and crunchy from candied pecans.
- Creamy and smooth from goat cheese.
- Savory and hearty from the chicken
Recommended Reads
- Chicken Paillard with Cranberry Pecan Acorn Squash Salad
- All About the Salad Spinner
- Healthy Poached Egg Avocado Rainbow Tuna Salad
- Quick Parsley Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad
- Rotisserie Chicken Salad | Quick & Easy Meal Prep
Ingredients with Steps
To make this salad, start by air-frying the chicken tenders, then wash and perk up the mixed baby greens in ice water, spin them dry, and place them in a wide bowl. Slice an apple into wedges, then cut them into chunks, and add them to the greens.
Sprinkle on hand-crushed candied pecans, raspberries, and slices of blueberry vanilla goat cheese. Cut the air-fried chicken tenders into bite-sized pieces and scatter them over the salad. Finish with a drizzle of berry vinaigrette, plus a pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Culinary Glossary
This section concisely defines key ingredients and techniques related to this post to enhance understanding and improve cooking skills.
- Chèvre - The French word for goat, used to describe cheeses made from goat's milk. Fresh chèvre is tangy, creamy, and often paired with fruits and nuts in salads.
- Chevre Log - A common form of fresh goat cheese shaped into a small log, often rolled in herbs, spices, or fruit for added flavor.
- Vinaigrette - A light salad dressing made by mixing oil with vinegar or citrus juice, often flavored with herbs, spices, or fruit for a tangy finish.
- Candied Pecans - Pecans coated in sugar or syrup and lightly toasted until caramelized, giving them a crunchy, sweet flavor that complements savory dishes.
- Spring Mix - A blend of tender young salad greens such as baby lettuces, arugula, and spinach, offering a variety of textures and flavors.
- Air-Fried Chicken - Chicken cooked in an air fryer, which circulates hot air to create a crispy exterior with less oil than traditional frying.
- Perk Up Greens - A chef's technique of soaking washed salad greens in ice water to refresh and crisp up the leaves before serving.
Instructions with Pictures
Follow the instructions and cooking tips below using the step-by-step picture guide.
Wait! First, grab your favorite chicken tenders and pop them into the air fryer as recommended on the package. By the time you're done prepping this salad, the chicken will be ready.
Prepare the Greens
Wash the mixed baby greens in a salad spinner.
Fill with water and drain. You might have to do this about three times.
Learn more about: How to Use the Salad Spinner | In Many Ways.
Place the basket over a base filled with ice water to perk up the leaves for about 1 minute.
Next, drain and spin dry. You want the leaves to dry so the dressing can adhere to them later.
Add Berries and Apple
Then transfer to a wide-rim bowl.
When using frozen raspberries, I like to add them first so they have time to thaw.
Use a fruit slicer to cut the apple into wedges.
It's just easier and quicker, plus it isolates the core to toss away. But a knife will work just fine as well.
Cut the wedges into bite-sized chunks with kitchen scissors, then place them on top of the salad.
Hand-crush the candied pecans and sprinkle them over the greens.
Add the Cheese
Add slices of blueberry vanilla goat cheese.
I like to slice them first, then cut them in half.
Top with Chicken and Dressing
Cut the air-fried chicken tenders into bite-sized pieces with scissors and scatter them evenly across the salad.
Drizzle with berry vinaigrette.
Season
Season lightly with kosher salt or any salt you can feel with your fingers.
Finally, freshly ground black pepper before serving.
Enjoy!
Now that's a nice wholesome salad!
Equipment List
Here's what you'll need to make this recipe with ease:
- Salad spinner - for washing and drying the baby greens.
- Large mixing bowl or wide-rim salad bowl - to build and serve the salad.
- Fruit slicer or paring knife - for cutting the apple into slices.
- Kitchen scissors - for cutting apple chunks, goat cheese slices, and chicken tenders.
- Air fryer - to cook the chicken tenders.
- Small cutting board - for handling fruit.
- Measuring spoons - (optional) for vinaigrette and seasonings.
- Pepper grinder - for freshly ground black pepper
Kitchen Must-Haves Reviews
Find a collection of my reviews of kitchen equipment that I have purchased or recommend. Kitchen Must-Haves - Find other tools I use here.
My Review: Cuisinart is a renowned brand known for its innovative, high-quality kitchen appliances and tools that make cooking and food prep effortless. Additionally, the Cuisinart Salad Spinner has been a trusty tool in my kitchen for years, and it’s proven to be so much more than just a salad spinner! Despite its compact size, it handles everything with ease, from rinsing and drying delicate herbs to cleaning mushrooms and, of course, prepping perfectly dry greens for salads. Its durable design has stood the test of time, and its efficiency has made meal prep so much quicker and easier. If you’re looking for a versatile, long-lasting kitchen tool, this little spinner is a must-have! I've made a post about it; check out my salad spinner post here.
My Review: I use the KitchenAid Classic Fruit Slicer almost every day, and it has quickly become my favorite tool for apples. Since I eat an apple nearly daily, whether adding it to smoothies, tossing it into salads, or even sharing slices as a snack for my dogs, this slicer has been a great buy. It’s durable, easy to clean, and with one quick motion, it neatly separates the apple from the core, making healthy eating fast and effortless.
My Review: If you're looking for the best versatile tool in the kitchen, the Korean Barbecue Shears are the perfect choice. These stainless steel scissors are built to last, durable, and ready to tackle raw and cooked foods with ease. Inspired by Koreans who use kitchen shears to cut scallions, pork belly, and meats over the pot or grill without a cutting board, I bought these for their practicality. They've become essential for portioning ribs, trimming meats, or prepping veggies, thanks to their sharp, long, serrated blades. If you haven’t tried proper kitchen shears, start with these!
My Review: I still have this salt cellar, and it still does its job. I use kosher salt because it is coarser and less salty than table salt, allowing me to season my food without oversalting. I prefer using a cellar instead of a grinder because I can feel how much I am using and adjust from there, and store the rest protected from moisture.
My Review: I still have it! As a matter of fact, I bought another one, a black one. Because I didn't like the gray color. I know! That's a first-world problem, lol. Anyways, it does a great job grinding peppercorns with different size settings. It's super easy to fill and hold, whether your hands are dry or wet, thanks to its silicone coating.
Storage Instructions
Learn how to store leftovers so they stay fresh and flavorful properly. Learn more about Understanding Food Temperature Safety Zones: Cook, Store & Serve Safely.
- Assemble fresh when possible - For the best crisp texture, store the salad components separately and combine just before serving.
- Greens - Wash, dry, and store the baby greens in an airtight container lined with paper towels. This keeps excess moisture away and helps them stay fresh for up to 3 days.
- Chicken - Cooked air-fried chicken tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat briefly in the air fryer or enjoy chilled.
- Apples - Cut apples will brown quickly; to prevent this, toss them in a little lemon juice before storing. Keep them in a small separate container and add them to the salad just before serving.
- Goat Cheese - Store the chèvre log tightly wrapped or in a small sealed container in the fridge. Use within 5-7 days once opened.
- Dressing - Keep vinaigrette in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Shake well before using.
- Fully Assembled Salad - If you must store leftovers, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to a container. Enjoy within 1 day, as the greens will soften.
Substitution Ideas
Find easy ingredient swaps to fit dietary needs or what you already have in your pantry.
Dairy-Free
- Blueberry Vanilla Chevre - If you'd like to make this salad dairy-free, replace the blueberry vanilla chèvre with a dairy-free goat cheese alternative, a cashew-based cheese, or sliced avocado for creaminess.
Gluten-Free
- Breaded Chicken Tenders - For a gluten-free option, substitute the breaded chicken tenders with grilled or air-fried chicken breast or tenderloin seasoned simply with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Vegetarian
- Chicken Tenders - To make this salad vegetarian, replace the air-fried chicken tenders with crispy chickpeas, roasted tofu, or extra candied pecans for added protein and crunch.
Convenience
- Chicken Tenders - Use leftover rotisserie chicken or turkey.
- Blueberry Vanilla Chèvre - Swap with plain goat cheese, blue cheese, or feta.
- Candied Pecans - Replace with toasted walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds.
- Raspberries - Use strawberries, blueberries, or dried cranberries.
- Berry Vinaigrette - Substitute with balsamic vinaigrette or apple cider vinaigrette.
Make It Your Way
Feel free to make this salad your own by mixing in your favorite fruits, nuts, or grains for a fresh combination that suits your taste.
- Herbs - Fresh mint, basil, or parsley brighten the flavors.
- Dried Fruit - Dried cranberries, cherries, or golden raisins add chewy sweetness.
- Fresh Fruit - Blueberries, blackberries, strawberries, or sliced pears give seasonal variety.
- Vegetables - Thinly sliced red onion, green onions, or shredded carrots add crunch and color.
- Cheese Alternatives - Blue cheese crumbles or shaved parmesan for a different flavor profile.
- Grains - Cooked quinoa, farro, or wild rice turn it into a more filling meal.
- Seeds - Pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for extra crunch and nutrition.
5 Recipe Tips
Cook's Notebook is your Cooking Tips Resource Guide. Become a better home cook with tips to help you cook more efficiently.
- Chicken - Air-fry until golden, then let it rest for a minute before cutting to keep the pieces juicy.
- Greens - Perk up baby greens in ice water for a crisp texture that makes the salad feel extra fresh.
- Apples - Toss cut apples with a little lemon juice to prevent browning if prepping ahead.
- Pecans - Lightly toast pecans before candying for a deeper, nutty flavor.
- Dressing - Drizzle the vinaigrette just before serving to avoid soggy greens.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here is a list of common questions I have answered. If you have any questions, please write them in the comments below.
Yes, but it's best to store the ingredients separately. Assemble just before serving to keep the greens crisp and the pecans crunchy.
Crisp and tart apples, such as Granny Smith, work beautifully for contrast, but Honeycrisp or Fuji add a sweeter bite.
Absolutely. Leftover rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken breast, or even leftover turkey are all great time-saving swaps.
Plain goat cheese, feta, or even blue cheese work as tasty substitutes. For a dairy-free version, try sliced avocado or a nut-based cheese alternative.
A berry vinaigrette is the classic choice, but balsamic vinaigrette or apple cider vinaigrette also complements the fruit, nuts, and chicken perfectly.
Salad Recipes
Looking for other light meal recipes like this? Try these:
- Quick Parsley Cucumber Tomato Feta Salad
- Caesar Salad with Egg Tomatoes and Chili-Infused Croutons
- Sweet Chili Peanut Chicken Tender salad
- Best Air Fryer Honey Dijon Mustard Chicken Rice Bowl
Chicken Recipes
Looking for other chicken recipes like this? Try these:
- Braised Chicken | Mexican-Style with Roasted Tomato Sauce
- Easy Air Fryer Chicken Nachos Recipe | Ready in 10 Minutes
- Easy BBQ Chicken Sliders with Coleslaw | Spicy & Sweet
- Rotisserie Chicken Salad | Quick & Easy Meal Prep
📖 Recipe
Berry Apple Pecan Chicken Salad
Ingredients
- 2-3 frozen pre-cooked chicken tenders or uncooked (but will take longer)
- 2 cups mixed baby greens
- 1 apple
- 4-5 whole candied pecans
- ¼ cup raspberries frozen or fresh
- 1 ounce blueberry vanilla chèvre goat cheese log
- 2 tablespoon Newman's Own Raspberry Walnut Dressing Any tangy apple cider or berry vinaigrette
- pinch kosher salt
- ground black pepper freshly ground
Equipment
- Fruit Slicer or paring knife
- Pepper Grinder optional for freshly ground black pepepr
Instructions
- Save Time in the Kitchen: Read the instructions thoroughly, then gather and prep all your ingredients before cooking! Learn Prepping Tips.
- Air Fry the Chicken: Place frozen chicken tenders in the air fryer and cook at 375 °F for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and fully cooked through. Let rest slightly before cutting.
- Prepare the Greens: Wash the mixed baby greens in a salad spinner. Fill the base with ice water and set the basket with greens on top to perk up the leaves. Drain, spin dry, and place in a wide-rim bowl.
- Add the Fruit: Slice an apple with a fruit slicer to make wedges (or use a sharp knife). Cut half (or use all) of it into chunks using kitchen scissors and add to the salad.
- Layer the Toppings: Hand-crush the candied pecans and sprinkle over the greens. Add raspberries and slices of blueberry vanilla goat cheese.
- Top with Chicken: Cut the air-fried chicken tenders into bite-size pieces with scissors and scatter over the salad.
- Dress and Finish: Drizzle with the berry vinaigrette. Sprinkle lightly with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Notes
- For the freshest bite, prep the greens with the ice water method. It perks up wilted leaves and makes the salad extra crisp.
- Swap the raspberries for blueberries or strawberries, depending on what's in season.
Nutrition
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Chef Maika Frederic
Chef and Educator
Haitian-American chef and educator Maika Frederic blends bold flavors with approachable recipes. With a background in both professional kitchens, classrooms, and children therapy as a trained chef, former teacher and technician she brings a thoughtful, inclusive touch to every dish. Through her platform, Just Maika Cooking, she shares diverse meals and practical tips to empower home cooks of all ages and levels.
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