This isn’t your average side salad—it’s a full meal in a bowl. Tender roasted sweet potato, crisp apple slices, and toasted pecans bring texture and sweetness, while BBQ-spiced chicken adds savory depth. All tossed in a tangy honey Dijon dressing, this salad is light yet satisfying.
Best of all, it comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a impressive lunch, this colorful salad delivers on flavor and ease.
Log in to save recipes and build weekly shopping lists.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Dice sweet potato into ½-inch pieces. Toss on a baking sheet with a drizzle of olive oil, 1 teaspoon BBQ seasoning, salt, and pepper. Roast until tender and lightly browned, 20-25 minutes, tossing halfway. Let cool at least 5 minutes.
- Meanwhile, halve and core the apple; cut into thin wedges. Toast pecans in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant, 2-3 minutes. Set aside.
- Pat chicken dry; season with remaining BBQ seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat vegetable oil in the same pan over medium heat. Cook chicken until browned and cooked through, 4-6 minutes per side. Transfer to a cutting board and let rest.
- In a large bowl, toss mixed greens, apple, and roasted sweet potato with honey Dijon dressing. Season with salt and pepper. Slice chicken. Divide salad among bowls, top with chicken and toasted pecans.
Useful Cookware
A few helpful kitchen tools for this recipe, with relevant Amazon picks for each item.
Baking Sheet
GoodCook Everyday Nonstick Baking Sheet Set, 3 Pack Includes Small (13×9) Medium (15×1) and Large (17×11) Pans Carbon Steel Construction Cookie Sheets Bakeware Set, GrayView on Amazon
NutriChef 3-Piece Nonstick Kitchen Oven Baking Pans - Premium & Stylish Non-Stick Steel, Commercial Grade Restaurant Quality Metal Bakeware with Red Silicone Handles - Easy to Clean, NCSBS3SView on Amazon
Nordic Ware Naturals Half Sheet - USA Made Aluminum Commercial Quality Sheet Pan for Baking or Roasting, Encapsulated Galvanized Steel Rim Prevents Warping, 2-PackView on AmazonMedium Pan
CAROTE Non Stick Frying Pan Skillet, Omelet Pan, Healthy Non Toxic Granite Chef Pan, Induction Compatible Egg Frying Pan with Heat-Resistant Handle, PFOA-Free,Cream White, 8"View on Amazon
SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet, Swiss Granite Coating Omelette Pan, Healthy Stone Cookware Chef's Pan, PFOA Free (9.5 Inch)View on Amazon
ESLITE LIFE Nonstick Ceramic Frying Pan Skillet, Non-Toxic Egg Omelette Kitchen Cooking Pans Compatible with All Stovetops (Gas, Electric & Induction), PTFE & PFOA Free (White, 8'')View on AmazonPaper Towel
Scott Paper Towels, Choose-A-Sheet, 6 Double Rolls = 12 Regular Rolls (108 Sheets Per Roll)View on Amazon
Bounty Quick-Size Paper Towels, White, 8 Family Triple Rolls = 27 Regular RollsView on Amazon
Amazon Basics 2-Ply Flex-Sheets Paper Towels, 12 Basics Rolls = 40 Regular Rolls, Everyday Value with 150 Sheets per Roll, Packaging May VaryView on AmazonLarge Bowl
Winco , 8-Quart, Stainless Steel (MXB-800Q)View on Amazon
Fox Run Brands 2.75-Quart Stainless Steel Mixing Bowl, 9 x 9 x 4 inches, MetallicView on Amazon
Mfacoy 2 Pack Salad Bowl, 8 inch 60 oz Large Serving Bowl Set, Deep Bowl for Kitchen, White Ceramic Bowl Set for Soup, Cereal, Ramen, Pasta, Salad, Dishwasher & Microwave Safe, Easy CleanView on AmazonRecipe Tips
For extra crunch, toast the pecans in a dry pan until fragrant.
Let the roasted sweet potato cool slightly before adding to the salad to prevent wilting the greens.
Feel free to peel the sweet potato if you prefer a smoother texture.
FAQ
Can I use a different protein?
Yes, grilled chicken breast or even leftover rotisserie chicken works well. Adjust seasoning accordingly.
How should I store leftovers?
Store the salad components separately in the refrigerator. The dressed greens will wilt, so keep dressing on the side.
Can I make this salad ahead?
You can roast the sweet potato and toast the pecans in advance. Assemble the salad just before serving for best texture.
























Recipe comments
0 DandyRecipes comments
Log in to comment on this recipe.
No DandyRecipes comments yet.