Introduction
Looking for a healthy, tasty, and quick meal? This Sonoma Chicken Salad is perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a light snack. It’s fresh, full of flavor, and easy to make in under 20 minutes. With tender chicken, crisp greens, juicy grapes, crunchy nuts, and a creamy dressing, it’s a salad that feels fancy but is super simple.
Even if you’re new to cooking, you can make this salad without any hassle. Not only does it taste amazing, but it’s also packed with nutrients to keep you full and energized. So, let’s get started and learn how to make this delicious Sonoma Chicken Salad right at home.
Ingredients – Sonoma Chicken Salad
Here’s what you’ll need for a quick and tasty Sonoma Chicken Salad. These ingredients are easy to find in any grocery store:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (lettuce, spinach, or arugula)
- 1 cup red grapes, halved
- 1/2 cup celery, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/3 cup toasted walnuts or pecans
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a healthier option)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional:
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries for extra sweetness
- Fresh herbs like parsley or chives for garnish
Step by Step Process – Sonoma Chicken Salad
Follow these simple steps to make your salad:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Wash the salad greens thoroughly and let them dry. Slice the grapes, celery, and red onion. Chop or shred the cooked chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Toast the nuts lightly in a pan for extra flavor.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), Dijon mustard, honey, and lemon juice. Stir until smooth. Add a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 3: Mix the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the salad greens, chicken, grapes, celery, red onion, and nuts. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss until everything is coated evenly.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Optional Ingredients
Sprinkle the crumbled feta or goat cheese over the salad. If you like, add dried cranberries or fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.
Step 5: Serve Immediately
Your Sonoma Chicken Salad is ready to serve! You can enjoy it on its own, or serve it with crusty bread or crackers. This salad tastes best fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 day.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 10 g |
| Sodium | 450 mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use rotisserie chicken for this salad?
Yes! Using rotisserie chicken makes this salad even quicker. Just shred the chicken and you’re ready to go.
Q2: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prepare the ingredients in advance, but it’s best to toss the dressing right before serving to keep the salad fresh and crunchy.
Q3: What can I use instead of walnuts or pecans?
Almonds or sunflower seeds work well too. Toasting them lightly enhances the flavor.
Q4: Can I make a healthier version of the dressing?
Absolutely! Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt, and use less honey for a lighter dressing.
Q5: Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure your dressing and optional ingredients are gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
The Quick Sonoma Chicken Salad is a perfect mix of fresh, sweet, and crunchy flavors that everyone will love. It’s simple, fast, and versatile, making it ideal for busy days, meal prep, or even a picnic. With tender chicken, juicy grapes, crisp vegetables, and a creamy dressing, every bite is full of deliciousness.
Try this salad today, and you’ll see why it’s a favorite for quick, healthy meals. You can even customize it with your favorite nuts, cheese, or fruits to make it your own. Fresh, easy, and flavorful – that’s Sonoma Chicken Salad in a nutshell!
