As the leaves begin to crisp and the air turns brisk, there’s nothing quite like the warmth of a cozy meal to embrace the fall season. This Chopped Fall Harvest Salad with Chicken is a delightful combination of roasted sweet potatoes, crunchy apples, and creamy goat cheese, capturing all the vibrant flavors of autumn in one bowl. Not only is this salad a showstopper for your next gathering, but it’s also gluten-free and packed with high-quality protein, making it a nourishing choice for weekday lunches or meal prep. Plus, it comes together in no time and can be easily tailored to suit your taste! Ready to discover how to whip up this comforting crowd-pleaser? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Chopped Fall Harvest Salad with Chicken bpjiwz

Why is this salad a fall favorite?

Vibrant, seasonal ingredients: The combination of roasted sweet potatoes, crisp apples, and pumpkin seeds makes this salad a true celebration of fall flavors. Nutrient-packed: With high-protein chicken and healthy fats from goat cheese, it’s a wholesome choice that keeps you satisfied. Quick assembly: Perfect for busy weekdays, this meal prep-friendly recipe can be thrown together in a flash. For extra inspiration, consider pairing it with our Balsamic Glazed Chicken for a heartier meal. Customizable delight: Easily adapt this salad with your favorite seasonal veggies or dressings to make it your own!

Chopped Fall Harvest Salad with Chicken Ingredients

• Perfect for a comforting fall dish!

For the Salad

Diced Sweet Potatoes (2 cups / 8 ounces) – Adds natural sweetness and starchy texture; consider butternut squash for a similar flavor.
Olive Oil (1/2 tablespoon) – Essential for roasting sweet potatoes and enhancing flavor; avocado oil works as a high smoke point alternative.
Mixed Greens (6 cups / roughly chopped, 180 grams) – Provides a fresh, vibrant base; spinach or kale can offer different textures.
Shredded Chicken (1.5 cups / 6 ounces) – The primary protein source that adds heartiness; swap with cooked turkey or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Diced Apple (1 cup / 100 grams) – Offers sweet crunch; pears can be an enjoyable alternative.
Dried Cranberries (2 tablespoons) – Sweet-tart addition for flavor balance; raisins or chopped dates are good substitutes.
Pumpkin Seeds/Pepitas (2 tablespoons) – Adds crunch and healthy fats; sunflower seeds can be used instead.
Goat Cheese (1/3 cup / 1.5 ounces) – Creamy texture that enhances richness; feta or blue cheese are great alternatives.
Orange Vinaigrette (1/4 cup) – Dressing that ties the salad together; balsamic vinaigrette provides a lovely alternative twist.
Salt and Pepper – Necessary for seasoning; adjust according to personal taste preferences.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chopped Fall Harvest Salad with Chicken

Step 1: Roast Sweet Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the diced sweet potatoes in a bowl with olive oil, salt, and freshly cracked pepper until well-coated. Spread the sweet potatoes evenly on a lined baking sheet and roast for 25–35 minutes, or until they are fork-tender and golden brown. Keep an eye on them as they roast, stirring halfway through for even cooking.

Step 2: Prepare Dressing
While the sweet potatoes are roasting, combine all the dressing ingredients in a jar or a small bowl. This includes the orange vinaigrette, which will bring the Chopped Fall Harvest Salad with Chicken together beautifully. Seal the jar or whisk the mixture until fully blended; taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed. Set it aside to let the flavors meld as you prepare the salad.

Step 3: Prep Salad Components
Next, chop the mixed greens into bite-sized pieces and dice the apple into small, crisp chunks. Place the mixed greens in a large serving bowl as the foundation of your salad. The vibrant colors will set the stage for a beautiful presentation, so feel free to arrange everything artfully as you go.

Step 4: Assemble Salad
Once the roasted sweet potatoes have cooled slightly, add them to the bowl of mixed greens, along with shredded chicken, diced apples, crumbled goat cheese, dried cranberries, and pumpkin seeds. Drizzle the prepared orange vinaigrette over the top, ensuring every ingredient is coated in that delightful flavor. Gently toss everything together until well combined, letting the Chopped Fall Harvest Salad with Chicken shine with its vibrant colors and textures.

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How to Store and Freeze Chopped Fall Harvest Salad

Fridge: Keep the salad components separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. This helps maintain freshness and prevents sogginess.

Freezer: Freezing the assembled salad is not recommended due to the texture changes in the greens and apple. Instead, freeze individual ingredients like chicken or roasted sweet potatoes for later use.

Reheating: If you’ve stored components separately, reheat any protein, such as chicken, in the microwave or oven before assembling to enjoy a warm meal.

Assembly: Dress the salad just before serving for the best flavor and texture, especially with the Chopped Fall Harvest Salad, which shines when fresh.

What to Serve with Harvest Chicken Salad

Looking to create the perfect meal alongside your vibrant Harvest Chicken Salad? Let these delightful pairings inspire your next dining experience.

Warm Crusty Bread: A slice of freshly baked bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover vinaigrette.
Savory Quinoa Pilaf: This nutrient-dense option adds hearty grains and complements the salad’s sweetness beautifully.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their crispy, caramelized edges bring depth and provide a lovely contrast to the tender salad ingredients.
Crispy Potato Wedges: Seasoned to perfection, these comforting bites offer a satisfying crunch and balance the salad’s freshness.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the meal, offering refreshing acidity against the salad’s richness.
Honeyed Almonds: Elevate the experience by adding this sweet, nutty crunch on top of the salad, enhancing both flavor and texture.
Apple Cider Vinegar Drink: A tangy beverage can invigorate the palate, keeping the flavors lively and fresh with each bite.
Cheesecake Bites: For a touch of sweetness, small bites of creamy cheesecake can provide a lovely finish to your meal.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace the cozy vibes of fall with this seasonal favorite, perfectly complementing your dining atmosphere.

Expert Tips for Chopped Fall Harvest Salad

Proper Roasting: Ensure sweet potatoes are evenly diced for uniform cooking. This prevents any undercooked or overly crispy pieces that could disrupt the salad’s texture.
Freshness Matters: Dress the salad just before serving to keep greens crisp and vibrant. This ensures the Chopped Fall Harvest Salad retains its delightful crunch.
Meal Prep Savvy: For easy meal prep, store individual salad components separately in the fridge. Combine them on serving day to avoid sogginess and maintain freshness.
Fruity Swaps: Don’t hesitate to swap the diced apple for pear if you’re looking for a different flavor profile. This small change can elevate the taste of the salad beautifully!
Mix It Up: Customize your Chopped Fall Harvest Salad with seasonal vegetables like roasted beets or carrots to add even more color and nutrients.

Chopped Fall Harvest Salad with Chicken Variations

Feel free to explore your creativity with this recipe and customize it to suit your tastes!

Plant-Based Protein: Substitute roasted tofu for chicken for a delicious vegetarian option. It’ll absorb the flavors beautifully while keeping you satisfied.
Grain Boost: Add cooked quinoa or farro to your salad for extra texture and a hearty feel. This makes the dish even more filling and boosts nutrition.
Sweet Swap: Use pears instead of apples for a twist! The juicy, sweet bites will complement the savory notes of the salad just as perfectly.
Root Vegetables: Consider tossing in seasonal root veggies like roasted beets. They add a beautiful color and a slightly earthy flavor to the mix.
Nutty Crunch: Swap pumpkin seeds for toasted walnuts or pecans to give your salad a different crunchy dimension. The nutty flavor pairs wonderfully with the other ingredients.
Creamy Twist: Try using feta or blue cheese instead of goat cheese for a saltier kick. Each cheese brings its own unique character to the salad.
Zesty Heat: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you fancy a little spice. It’ll give your salad an unexpected zing that balances well with the sweetness.
Dressing Variations: Experiment with balsamic vinaigrette instead of the orange dressing for a completely different flavor profile. The tangy richness will elevate the entire salad experience.

For a delightful meal experience, consider serving this salad alongside our Cucumber Chicken Salad or some Grilled Chicken Skewers for added variety!

Make Ahead Options

This Chopped Fall Harvest Salad with Chicken is ideal for meal prep, allowing you to savor its autumn flavors even on the busiest of days! You can roast the sweet potatoes and prepare the orange vinaigrette up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The diced apple and mixed greens can be prepped and stored as well, but it’s best to keep them separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent sogginess. When it’s time to enjoy your salad, just combine all the components, toss with the dressing, and you’ll have a delicious, wholesome meal ready in an instant!

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Chopped Fall Harvest Salad with Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of sweet potatoes should I use for this salad?
When selecting sweet potatoes, look for ones that are firm with smooth skin, avoiding any with dark spots or soft areas. The sweetness of the potatoes enhances the overall flavor of the salad, making them the ideal ingredient. If you prefer, you can substitute butternut squash for a similar taste experience.

How should I store the leftover salad?
For optimal freshness, keep the salad ingredients stored separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. This prevents the greens from wilting and ensures each ingredient maintains its texture. Assemble the salad when ready to serve for the best taste.

Can I freeze any components of the Chopped Fall Harvest Salad with Chicken?
Absolutely! While it’s not suitable to freeze the entire salad due to the texture of the greens and apple, you can freeze individual components like roasted sweet potatoes or cooked chicken. Place them in airtight containers or freezer bags and store for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw them in the fridge before reassembling your salad.

What if I’m allergic to goat cheese?
If you have an allergy to goat cheese, you can easily substitute it with feta or blue cheese, both of which provide a creamy texture and savory flavor. For a dairy-free option, consider using a plant-based cheese or simply omit it altogether for a lighter salad without sacrificing taste.

How do I prevent the salad from becoming soggy?
To maintain the crispness of your Chopped Fall Harvest Salad, dress it just before serving. Avoid adding the vinaigrette until you’re ready to enjoy the meal. Additionally, storing the ingredients separately until it’s time to eat will help keep each component fresh and crunchy.

Can I adapt this salad for vegetarian diets?
Yes, you can create a vegetarian version of this salad by substituting the shredded chicken with cooked chickpeas or roasted tofu. This not only keeps the protein content high but also adds a delightful texture that complements the other ingredients beautifully.