Winter Roasted Chicken Salad with Pears, Walnuts and Cranberries

This winter roasted chicken salad is the perfect way to enjoy a hearty and satisfying meal during the colder months. Tender roasted chicken is served over a bed of fresh spinach, topped with sweet sliced pears, crunchy walnuts, tart dried cranberries and creamy feta cheese.

The combination of flavors and textures creates a delightful dish that’s both nourishing and delicious. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a light dinner, this salad is sure to become a favorite.

Log in to save recipes and build weekly shopping lists.

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breastsView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

2 tbsp olive oilView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

Salt and pepper to tasteView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

6 cups fresh spinachView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

2 ripe pears, slicedView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

1/2 cup walnuts, choppedView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

1/3 cup dried cranberriesView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

1/2 cup crumbled feta cheeseView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

Your favorite vinaigrette dressingView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place the chicken breasts on the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let cool slightly, then slice or shred.
3. While the chicken roasts, prepare the salad ingredients: wash and dry the spinach, slice the pears, chop the walnuts and measure the cranberries and feta.
4. In a large bowl, combine the spinach, sliced pears, walnuts, cranberries and feta. Add the sliced or shredded chicken.
5. Drizzle with your favorite vinaigrette dressing and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately.

Recipe Tips

FAQ

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute feta with goat cheese or blue cheese for a different flavor profile.

How should I store leftovers?

Store the salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The salad will keep for up to 2 days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of roasting my own?

Absolutely! Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Simply shred the meat and skip the roasting step.