A Refreshing Chicken Apple Crisp Broccoli Salad with Creamy Yogurt Dressing Recipe

When summer arrives, a fresh and vibrant salad can be the perfect meal. One standout dish is the Chicken Apple Crisp Broccoli Salad with Creamy Yogurt Dressing. Not only is this salad delicious, but it is also nutrient-rich, making it a fantastic choice for a light lunch or a side dish at your next gathering. With a blend of sweet, savory, and crunchy elements, this salad is sure to please.

In this post, we’ll dive into the ingredients needed for this delightful salad and provide a straightforward recipe that you can easily follow at home.

Ingredients

To prepare the Chicken Apple Crisp Broccoli Salad, gather these ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced

• 2 cups broccoli florets, blanched

• 1 large apple, diced (opt for crisp varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji)

• 1/2 cup dried cranberries

• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

• 1/2 cup shredded carrots

• 1/2 cup plain yogurt (Greek yogurt is a great option)

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

• Salt and pepper to taste

  
  

These ingredients come together to create a salad that not only looks appetizing but also bursts with flavor. The combination of tender chicken, crunchy apples, and nuts provides a satisfying texture, while the creamy yogurt dressing adds a smooth finish.

Preparing the Salad

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

If your chicken isn't cooked yet, grill, bake, or poach it until fully cooked. This should take about 15-20 minutes. Once cooked, let it cool before shredding or dicing.

Step 2: Blanch the Broccoli

Blanching helps retain the vibrant green color and crispness of broccoli. Boil a pot of water, add the broccoli florets, and cook for 2-3 minutes. Quickly move the broccoli to an ice bath to halt the cooking process, then drain and set aside. This technique preserves about 95% of nutrients while ensuring bright color.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, mix the plain yogurt, honey, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Whisk until the mixture is smooth. This creamy yogurt dressing is not only healthier than traditional dressing but offers a tangy sweetness that complements the salad perfectly.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the cooked chicken, blanched broccoli, diced apple, dried cranberries, chopped nuts, and shredded carrots. Drizzle the yogurt dressing over the salad and gently toss to ensure every ingredient is coated.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Your Chicken Apple Crisp Broccoli Salad is now ready to serve! It can be enjoyed right away or chilled in the fridge for about 30 minutes for the flavors to blend. This dish is excellent for meal prep, remaining fresh for up to three days in the refrigerator.

Serves 4

Creative Customizations

Salads are highly adaptable! Here are some ideas to personalize your Chicken Apple Crisp Broccoli Salad:

• Add More Veggies: Consider incorporating bell peppers, cucumbers, or snap peas. These additions don’t just enhance crunch but also boost nutritional value.

  
  

• Switch Up the Nuts: If you have nut allergies, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds work well as substitutes. They add a delightful crunch and are equally nutritious.

  
  

• Make It Vegan: Swap chicken for chickpeas or cubed tofu, and choose dairy-free yogurt for the dressing to create a plant-based version.

  
  

• Experiment with Fruits: While apples are a great choice, try pears, grapes, or citrus fruits for a new twist on flavor and sweetness.

  
  

Nutritional Benefits

This Chicken Apple Crisp Broccoli Salad is packed with health benefits:

• Protein: Chicken offers a substantial source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. One cup provides approximately 43 grams of protein.

  
  

• Vitamins and Minerals: Broccoli is an excellent source of vitamins C and K. One cup of raw broccoli contains about 135% of your daily recommended intake (DRI) of vitamin C.

  
  

• Healthy Fats: Nuts provide beneficial fats that support heart health and help keep you satiated. Just one ounce of walnuts contains over 18 grams of fat, mostly from omega-3s.

  
  

• Low in Calories: Using yogurt in place of mayonnaise reduces calories significantly. This salad contains around 250 calories per serving, making it a light yet satisfying option.

  
  

Fresh and Filling

The Chicken Apple Crisp Broccoli Salad with Creamy Yogurt Dressing is a delightful dish that showcases a mix of flavors and textures. Whether you need a light lunch, a barbecue side dish, or a healthy meal prep option, this salad is bound to impress.

With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can whip this refreshing salad together in no time. So, why not give it a go? Your taste buds will appreciate the burst of flavor!

A bowl of Chicken Apple Crisp Broccoli Salad ready to be served