Honey Crisp Chicken Salad from Uno Pizzeria & Grill features tender grilled chicken, crisp Honeycrisp apples, fresh mixed greens, and crunchy candied pecans, all tossed in a tangy honey mustard dressing for a refreshing and flavorful meal.
Equipments
- Grill or Grill Pan
- Chef’s Knife
- Cutting Board
- Salad Spinner
- Mixing Bowls
- Tongs
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Whisk
- Baking Sheet (for candied pecans)
- Parchment Paper (optional, for candied pecans)
- Salad Serving Bowl
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 2 Honeycrisp apples
- 6 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cup candied pecans
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Selecting fresh Honeycrisp apples is essential as they provide the crisp texture and sweet-tart flavor that defines the salad. Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for even grilling and a tender bite. Candied pecans add a delightful crunch and sweetness, so prepare them carefully on a baking sheet for best results. The honey mustard dressing combines honey, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and spices to create a balanced, tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients. Your Honey Crisp Chicken Salad from Uno Pizzeria & Grill copycat menu will shine when these key ingredients are fresh and properly prepared.
Instructions
- Preheat grill or grill pan.
- Brush chicken breasts with olive oil; season with salt and black pepper.
- Grill chicken until fully cooked; let rest, then slice.
- Slice Honeycrisp apples.
- Clean and dry mixed salad greens using salad spinner.
- Prepare candied pecans (if not store-bought): spread pecans on a baking sheet lined with parchment, bake as needed.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.
- In a large salad bowl, combine mixed greens, apple slices, grilled chicken, and candied pecans.
- Drizzle honey mustard dressing over salad.
- Toss gently with tongs to combine.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Honey Crisp Chicken Salad from Uno Pizzeria & Grill copycat menu blends grilled chicken, Honeycrisp apples, mixed greens, and candied pecans in a honey mustard dressing. You can substitute Granny Smith apples if Honeycrisp are unavailable, as they provide a similarly crisp texture and tart flavor. If you don't have a grill or grill pan, cooking the chicken in a skillet or oven-baking it also works well. For candied pecans, store-bought versions can save time without compromising taste. Adjust the dressing ingredients to suit your preferred balance of sweetness and tanginess.
Tips
Make sure to let the grilled chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain its juices and prevent dryness in your Honey Crisp Chicken Salad. When slicing Honeycrisp apples, consider tossing them in a bit of lemon juice to prevent browning and maintain freshness. Use a salad spinner to thoroughly dry mixed greens, as excess water can dilute the honey mustard dressing and make your salad soggy. Preparing candied pecans ahead or using store-bought ones can save time; ensure they are evenly coated and baked on parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Nutritions
Honey Crisp Chicken Salad offers a balanced combination of lean protein from grilled chicken and dietary fiber from mixed greens and Honeycrisp apples, promoting digestive health. The candied pecans add healthy fats and a crunchy texture, while the honey mustard dressing provides antioxidants and natural sweetness without excessive sugars. This salad is rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and healthy monounsaturated fats, supporting your immune system and heart health. Enjoy this nutrient-dense meal as a flavorful way to meet your daily nutritional needs.
Storage
Store leftover Honey Crisp Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess. Keep the dressing separate from the salad components to preserve the crunchy texture of the Honeycrisp apples and candied pecans. Your salad will stay optimal for up to 2 days when stored properly.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute Granny Smith apples for Honeycrisp to give the salad a tarter flavor contrast. Swap candied pecans with toasted walnuts or almonds to add a different nutty crunch. For a lighter dressing, replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt, enhancing creaminess while reducing calories. Marinating the chicken briefly in lemon juice and herbs before grilling can infuse extra zest and tenderize the meat.
Allergies
The Honey Crisp Chicken Salad from Uno Pizzeria & Grill contains common allergens such as tree nuts from candied pecans and eggs from mayonnaise. You should also be cautious if you have sensitivities to mustard or honey. Cross-contamination with other allergens may occur during preparation, so informing the staff about your allergies is important.
Why this recipe?
The Honey Crisp Chicken Salad at Uno Pizzeria & Grill is beloved for its perfect blend of sweet, savory, and crunchy flavors, featuring fresh honey crisp apples, tender grilled chicken, and crisp greens. The combination of sharp cheddar cheese and candied pecans adds rich texture and depth, enhancing every bite. This salad offers a balanced, satisfying meal that appeals to health-conscious diners without sacrificing taste. You'll find recreating this copycat recipe rewarding and delicious, bringing the restaurant-quality experience right to your kitchen.