Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a salad that's anything but ordinary! This Chicken Apple Brussels Sprouts Salad is a symphony of textures and flavors that will make you forget everything you thought you knew about healthy eating. Imagine crispy roasted Brussels sprouts, tender shredded chicken, sweet apple slices, and crunchy walnuts coming together in one mouthwatering dish that's both nutritious and incredibly delicious.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 apple, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and slice them in half lengthwise. Toss the halved Brussels sprouts with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the Brussels sprouts cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until edges are crispy and golden brown.
- While Brussels sprouts are roasting, shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks.
- Thinly slice the apple into delicate half-moon shapes. To prevent browning, you can lightly toss apple slices in a bit of lemon juice.
- In a small bowl, whisk together remaining olive oil and apple cider vinegar to create a light vinaigrette. Season with salt and pepper.
- Once Brussels sprouts are roasted, remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes.
- In a large serving bowl, combine roasted Brussels sprouts, shredded chicken, apple slices, and chopped walnuts.
- Drizzle the prepared vinaigrette over the salad and gently toss to combine.
- Top the salad with crumbled feta cheese and serve immediately while Brussels sprouts are still warm.
Tips
- Roasting Brussels Sprouts: The key to amazing flavor is getting those edges crispy and golden. Make sure to place them cut-side down on the baking sheet and give them enough space to roast evenly.
- Prevent Apple Browning: Toss your apple slices in a little lemon juice to keep them fresh and prevent oxidation.
- Chicken Prep Hack: If you don't have leftover chicken, rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time.
- Serve Immediately: This salad is best enjoyed warm, so time your preparation to serve right after assembling.
- Customization Options: Feel free to swap walnuts for pecans or try different cheeses like goat cheese for variety.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Roast Brussels sprouts and prep ingredients in advance, but combine just before serving to maintain optimal texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 55mg
