Chicken Salad with Plum Preserves Recipe

Chicken Salad with Plum Preserves is a light and flavorful dish that blends tender chicken, fresh vegetables and a sweet-savory plum preserves dressing. This recipe offers a perfect balance of creamy and tangy flavors, with crunchy veggies adding texture. It’s ideal for lunch or a light dinner, and the plum preserves bring a unique twist to a classic chicken salad.

Chicken Salad with Plum Preserves

This Chicken Salad with Plum Preserves is a refreshing dish featuring tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and a sweet-savory plum preserves dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Chilling Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Lunch

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Salad:

• 2 chicken breasts grilled, roasted, or poached, and shredded or chopped
• 1 cup celery chopped
• ½ cup red onion diced
• 2 cups mixed greens e.g., spinach, arugula, or lettuce
• 1 apple thinly sliced (optional)
• ¼ cup walnuts or almonds optional, for crunch

For the Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons plum preserves
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

• Grill or skillet
• Knife & cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring spoons

Method

 

1. Grill or pan-cook the chicken breasts for about 10 minutes, or until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Let them rest for 5 minutes before shredding or chopping into bite-sized pieces.
2. While the chicken is cooking, chop the celery, onion, and apple (if using). Set them aside in a large mixing bowl along with the mixed greens.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the plum preserves, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and mayonnaise until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add the cooked chicken to the mixing bowl with the veggies. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss everything together until well-coated.
5. For the best flavor, let the salad chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving.
6. Garnish with chopped nuts if desired, and enjoy the salad on its own or served with a side of crusty bread.

Notes

• Storage Instructions: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Reheating Tips: The salad is best served chilled, but you can bring it to room temperature if desired. Refrain from microwaving.
• Variation Suggestions: Add a handful of raisins or cranberries for added sweetness, or use Greek yogurt in the dressing for a lighter option.
• Safety Tips: Ensure the chicken is fully cooked before shredding to avoid any foodborne illness.