Harvest Chicken Sweet Potato Salad – Healthy & Flavorful Recipe

Autumn flavors come alive in this hearty and delicious Harvest Chicken Sweet Potato Salad. This recipe combines tender chicken, roasted sweet potatoes, crisp apples, dried cranberries, crunchy pumpkin seeds, and creamy goat cheese, all tossed in a zesty orange vinaigrette. It’s the perfect salad to enjoy during the fall season, whether you’re meal prepping or looking for a light yet satisfying dish. In just 40 minutes, you’ll have a nutritious and flavorful meal that’s packed with protein, healthy fats, and fiber to keep you full and energized.

Why You’ll Love This Harvest Chicken Sweet Potato Salad

This Harvest Chicken Sweet Potato Salad is a winning choice for a variety of reasons. First, it’s incredibly quick and easy to make—perfect for busy days when you still want something nutritious and delicious. The combination of roasted sweet potatoes, chicken, apples, and cranberries brings together a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors. Plus, this salad is rich in protein, which makes it an excellent choice for a satisfying lunch or dinner.

Additionally, it’s a great option for meal prep. With just a bit of advance work, you can have all the ingredients ready to go and assemble the salad in no time. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy dinner or for a healthy weekday lunch, this salad is versatile, customizable, and absolutely delicious.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Harvest Chicken Sweet Potato Salad:

• Sweet Potatoes: Roasted to perfection, sweet potatoes add a creamy texture and a natural sweetness that balances the savory flavors in the salad.
• Mixed Greens: A mix of spinach and arugula gives the salad a fresh, slightly peppery base, providing essential nutrients and fiber.
• Shredded Chicken: Adds protein to make the salad more filling. You can use rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken breast for convenience.
• Apples: Crisp apples bring a refreshing crunch and natural sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the other ingredients.
• Dried Cranberries: These offer a chewy texture and a burst of tartness that enhances the autumn flavors.
• Pumpkin Seeds: Adding crunch and a mild nutty flavor, pumpkin seeds also provide healthy fats and protein.
• Goat Cheese: Creamy goat cheese adds richness to the salad, balancing out the flavors perfectly.
• Orange Vinaigrette: This tangy and slightly sweet dressing ties all the ingredients together, with a hint of cinnamon and ginger to complement the fall flavors.
• Salt and Pepper: For seasoning, adjust to your taste.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking to make adjustments based on dietary preferences or what you have available, consider these substitutions:

• Sweet Potatoes: Try roasted butternut squash for a similar texture and flavor.
• Mixed Greens: You can substitute spinach and arugula with kale, romaine, or your favorite leafy greens. If using kale, massage it with a bit of oil to make it tender.
• Shredded Chicken: If you’re not a fan of chicken, try using turkey or even roasted salmon for a different protein option.
• Goat Cheese: If you’re dairy-free, leave the goat cheese out, or substitute it with a dairy-free cheese alternative or avocado for creaminess.
• Dried Cranberries: Swap cranberries with raisins, pomegranate seeds, or fresh figs for a different fruity twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making this Harvest Chicken Sweet Potato Salad is straightforward. Follow these simple steps:

1. Roast the Sweet Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Dice the sweet potatoes, toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them for 25-35 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fork-tender. Let them cool for a few minutes after roasting.
2. Make the Orange Vinaigrette: While the sweet potatoes are roasting, combine the orange juice, extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, tahini, cinnamon, ground ginger, salt, and pepper in a small jar or bowl. Shake or whisk until well combined. Taste and adjust as needed.
3. Prepare the Salad Ingredients: While the potatoes roast, roughly chop the mixed greens and dice the apple into small pieces.
4. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the roasted sweet potatoes, mixed greens, shredded chicken, diced apple, dried cranberries, pumpkin seeds, and goat cheese. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Dress the Salad: Pour the orange vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients. Adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Enjoy the salad immediately or store it in the fridge for later.

Tips & Tricks

• Make-ahead: To save time during the week, you can prep the roasted sweet potatoes, chicken, and vinaigrette in advance. Store them separately in the fridge and assemble the salad when you’re ready to eat.
• Avoid sogginess: If making the salad ahead of time, wait to add the vinaigrette and pumpkin seeds until just before serving to keep the salad fresh and crisp.
• Texture and Flavor: For an extra layer of flavor, try adding roasted Brussels sprouts or carrots to the salad. If you love avocado, add slices for extra creaminess.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

This Harvest Chicken Sweet Potato Salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides or variations. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

• Side Dishes: Serve the salad alongside roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots for a comforting fall meal.
• Toppings: Top the salad with extra pumpkin seeds, crumbled feta, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor.
• Dressing Variations: While the orange vinaigrette is perfect, you can switch it up with a balsamic vinaigrette for a tangy alternative or a maple mustard dressing for a bit of sweetness.

Storage and Make-Ahead Notes

This salad is great for meal prep! Store the ingredients in separate containers in the fridge. Assemble the salad just before serving to maintain the fresh textures. It can last for 3-4 days in the fridge, but the pumpkin seeds may lose their crunch over time.

Conclusion

Incorporating the flavors of fall, the Harvest Chicken Sweet Potato Salad offers a perfect combination of savory and sweet with wholesome ingredients. This dish is not only delicious but also highly nutritious, packed with protein, healthy fats, and fiber. Whether you’re preparing it for a weekday meal, a holiday gathering, or as a meal prep option, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. The versatility of the salad allows you to make substitutions based on dietary preferences or what you have on hand. With its seasonal appeal and balanced nutrients, this salad is a must-try this autumn!

FAQ

More Relevant Recipes

• Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta: This creamy, comforting dish features garlic and parmesan with tender chicken, making it an ideal choice for anyone who enjoys rich, savory flavors paired with easy prep. Perfect for cozy dinners with family or friends.
• Slow Cooker Pumpkin Butter: A perfect autumn spread made with pumpkin and spices, slow-cooked to bring out the deep, warm flavors of fall. Ideal as a topping for toast, pancakes, or as an addition to salads for a unique twist.
• Fried Cinnamon Apple Rings: These crispy, sweet, and cinnamon-spiced apple rings are a great dessert or snack for fall. They complement the Harvest Chicken Sweet Potato Salad’s autumn flavors while adding a sweet and indulgent finish to your meal.

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