Harvest Chicken Salad Sandwich from McAlister's Deli features tender, seasoned chicken mixed with crisp apples, dried cranberries, celery, and toasted pecans, all layered on freshly baked wheat bread for a delightful blend of sweet, savory, and crunchy flavors.
Equipments
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Baking sheet (for toasting pecans)
- Oven or toaster oven (for pecans)
- Bread knife
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked, seasoned chicken breast
- 1/2 cup diced apples
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
- 1/3 cup diced celery
- 1/3 cup toasted pecans
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 8 slices wheat bread
To ensure the best flavor and texture in your Harvest Chicken Salad Sandwich, toast the pecans on a baking sheet in the oven or toaster oven before mixing them into the salad. Use fresh, crisp apples like Granny Smith for a tart contrast that complements the sweetness of dried cranberries. Season the chicken breast prior to cooking to enhance the overall taste, and dice the celery finely to add a satisfying crunch. Mayonnaise adds creaminess, so measure carefully to maintain the right balance without overpowering the other ingredients. Your homemade Harvest Chicken Salad Sandwich from McAlister's Deli copycat menu will capture the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and crunchy flavors found in the original.
Instructions
- Preheat oven or toaster oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread pecans on a baking sheet.
- Toast pecans for 5-7 minutes; let them cool, then chop coarsely.
- Dice apples, celery, and cooked chicken breast.
- In a mixing bowl, combine chicken, apples, cranberries, celery, and toasted pecans.
- Add mayonnaise to the bowl.
- Mix all ingredients with a spoon or spatula until evenly coated.
- Season mixture with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Lay out wheat bread slices on a cutting board.
- Evenly spread chicken salad mixture on 4 slices of bread.
- Top each with another bread slice.
- Cut each sandwich in half with a bread knife.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Harvest Chicken Salad Sandwich from McAlister's Deli copycat menu combines tender, seasoned chicken with crisp apples, dried cranberries, celery, and toasted pecans for a sweet and savory flavor profile. If toasted pecans are unavailable, you can substitute walnuts or almonds to maintain a similar crunch and nutty taste. When preparing the chicken, use rotisserie or leftover cooked chicken as a convenient alternative to fresh-cooked breast. Mayonnaise can be replaced with Greek yogurt to reduce calories while keeping creaminess in the salad. Your choice of bread can vary from whole grain to gluten-free options to accommodate dietary preferences.
Tips
Ensure your pecans are evenly toasted to bring out their nutty flavor without burning, which can happen quickly around the 5 to 7-minute mark. Use a sharp chef's knife to dice the chicken, apples, and celery uniformly for even texture and flavor in every bite. When mixing, add mayonnaise gradually to achieve your preferred creaminess while ensuring all ingredients are well-coated. Toasted pecans add crunch, so chopping them coarsely preserves their texture, enhancing your Harvest Chicken Salad Sandwich's delightful blend of sweet, savory, and crunchy flavors.
Nutritions
The Harvest Chicken Salad Sandwich from McAlister's Deli provides a balanced mix of macronutrients, featuring lean protein from seasoned chicken breast that supports muscle maintenance and repair. The inclusion of apples and dried cranberries adds natural sweetness along with dietary fiber and antioxidants, promoting digestive health and immune function. Toasted pecans contribute heart-healthy fats and essential minerals like magnesium, while the wheat bread offers complex carbohydrates for sustained energy. Your meal delivers a nutritious blend of flavors and nutrients, making it both satisfying and wholesome.
Storage
Store your Harvest Chicken Salad Sandwich in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent the bread from becoming soggy. Consume within 24 hours for optimal flavor and texture, as the mayonnaise and fresh ingredients can spoil quickly. Avoid freezing the sandwich to preserve the crispness of the apples and toasted pecans.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise to create a lighter, tangy version of the Harvest Chicken Salad, which also adds protein. Swap dried cranberries with dried cherries or golden raisins to vary the sweetness and texture. Try adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or honey to the mixture to enhance the flavor complexity. Toast pecans in a skillet over medium heat for a more controlled toasting process and richer aroma.
Allergies
The Harvest Chicken Salad Sandwich from McAlister's Deli contains common allergens such as pecans and mayonnaise, which often includes eggs. Your allergy to nuts or eggs could pose a risk when consuming this sandwich. Always check with the restaurant for potential cross-contamination or ingredient substitutions to ensure your safety.
Why this recipe?
The Harvest Chicken Salad Sandwich from McAlister's Deli features a delightful combination of tender chicken, dried cranberries, and crunchy pecans, offering a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors. Fresh mixed greens and a creamy dressing enhance the texture, making each bite refreshing and satisfying. This popular menu item caters to health-conscious diners seeking a flavorful yet nutritious option. Trying a copycat recipe allows you to customize ingredients and enjoy this delicious, wholesome sandwich anytime at home.