Name: Apple Orchard Chicken Salad Sub
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 1 red apple red apple (Honeycrisp recommended); 1 granny smith apple granny smith apple; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 3 cups cooked chicken breast (chopped); 1/2 cup chopped celery; 1/2 cup cherry Craisins; 1 cup light mayonnaise; to taste salt and pepper

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When I think of comfort food, nothing quite hits the spot like a Apple Orchard Chicken Salad Sub. This dish takes me back to crisp autumn days, where the scent of fresh apples fills the air and mingles with the savory aroma of roasted chicken. It’s the perfect blend of sweet and savory, wrapped in a delightful sub that makes every bite a joy. Whether it’s a casual lunch or a quick dinner, this recipe is my go-to for satisfying cravings and bringing a taste of the orchard right to the table.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
10 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Paleo, Whole30, Gluten-Free

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Wooden Spoon, Chef’s Knife

The Beauty of This Apple Orchard Chicken Salad Sub

Taste of Fall

The Apple Orchard Chicken Salad Sub is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of the autumn season. The sweetness of the apples balances beautifully with the tender, shredded chicken, creating a dish that is both refreshing and hearty. Each bite is a reminder of family gatherings and the bountiful harvest that fall brings.

Quick and Easy

With minimal prep and cook time, this salad is perfect for those busy days. You can whip it up in no time, making it an excellent choice for a quick lunch or dinner. Plus, with just a few simple ingredients, it’s a breeze to make and perfect for both kids and adults alike.

Versatile Ingredients

Feel free to customize your Apple Orchard Chicken Salad Sub with your favorite ingredients. Whether you prefer crunchy nuts or additional fruits, this salad can adapt to your personal tastes. It’s a blank canvas for creativity, allowing you to experiment with flavors and textures.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This chicken salad stores beautifully in the refrigerator, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Just mix the ingredients and store them in an airtight container. It’s a convenient and delicious option for those busy workdays when you need a nutritious meal on the go.

Healthy and Nutritious

The Apple Orchard Chicken Salad Sub is packed with lean protein from the chicken and fiber from the apples and celery. It’s a wholesome dish that keeps you energized and satisfied without weighing you down. It’s guilt-free comfort food that you can feel good about.

Ingredients to Make Apple Orchard Chicken Salad Sub

The ingredients for this Apple Orchard Chicken Salad Sub are not only simple but also work together harmoniously to create a delightful dish. The key players, like the sweet apples and crisp celery, offer a refreshing contrast to the tender chicken, enhancing every bite. Each ingredient adds its own unique flavor and texture, making this salad a must-try!

1 red apple (Honeycrisp recommended) – Sweet and crisp, this apple variety elevates the flavor profile of the salad, providing a refreshing crunch.
1 granny smith apple – Adds a tart note that beautifully complements the sweetness of the other ingredients.
1 tablespoon lemon juice – Helps prevent the apples from browning while adding a zesty brightness to the salad.
3 cups cooked chicken breast (chopped) – The protein base of the salad, giving it substance and heartiness.
1/2 cup chopped celery – Brings a refreshing crunch and a mild flavor that balances the sweetness of the apples.
1/2 cup cherry Craisins – Adds a chewy texture and bursts of sweetness that enhance the overall flavor.
1 cup light mayonnaise – Acts as a creamy binder, bringing all the ingredients together and adding richness.
salt and pepper to taste – Essential seasonings that enhance and elevate all the flavors of the salad.

Putting Together Apple Orchard Chicken Salad Sub

Making an Apple Orchard Chicken Salad Sub is a simple and enjoyable process. You’ll love how quickly this dish comes together, and the fresh flavors will have you coming back for seconds. Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions!

Start by chopping both red apple and granny smith apple into small cubes. Place them into a bowl. The vibrant colors will start to create a beautiful base for your salad.
Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of lemon juice over the apples. This isn’t just for flavor – it also helps prevent them from turning brown. You’ll notice how the juice gives a lovely sheen to the apples.
Next, add the chopped chicken, chopped celery, and Craisins to the bowl. Stir gently to combine. The textures of the ingredients will start to blend together, creating a colorful mixture.
Now, pour in 1 cup of light mayonnaise and stir well. This should create a creamy coating that binds everything together. Depending on how you like your salad, you might want to adjust the amount of mayo here.
If you prefer a creamier salad, feel free to add an additional 1/2 cup of light mayonnaise at this stage. Mix again until everything is thoroughly combined.
Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. This step is crucial as it enhances the flavors and makes everything pop!
Once everything is mixed, transfer the salad to an airtight container and refrigerate it for about 1 hour. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
When ready to serve, take the salad out of the refrigerator. You can enjoy it on its own or scooped into a fresh sub roll for a delightful sandwich experience.
Garnish with additional Craisins or nuts if desired. The final touches give it that extra flair.

Things Worth Knowing

Check for freshness: Always use fresh ingredients, especially when it comes to apples and chicken. Fresh produce will enhance the overall taste.
Experiment with flavors: Don’t hesitate to switch up the fruits or add nuts for extra crunch. The Apple Orchard Chicken Salad Sub is versatile!
Monitor the mayo: Make sure to add the mayonnaise gradually, checking for your desired creaminess level.
Adding herbs: Consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or dill for an extra layer of flavor.

Customization Ideas

There’s something special about being able to make a dish your own. The Apple Orchard Chicken Salad Sub lends itself beautifully to customization options. Here are some ideas to consider:

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just give it a good stir before serving again!
Freezing: While this salad is best fresh, you can freeze the chicken mixture before adding mayonnaise. Defrost and mix in the mayo before serving.
Pairing: This salad pairs wonderfully with whole-grain bread or croissants for a tasty sandwich. You could also serve it with a side of crisp greens.
Adding nuts: For a crunchier texture, try adding some toasted almond slivers or walnuts, which also contribute healthy fats.
Fruit variations: Feel free to swap out the apples for pears or add grapes for a different fruity twist!

What to Serve Alongside Apple Orchard Chicken Salad Sub

When it comes to enjoying your Apple Orchard Chicken Salad Sub, there are numerous delicious side dishes and accompaniments that can elevate your meal. Here are some great ideas:

Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing combination of seasonal fruits makes for a perfect side, enhancing the flavors of the salad.
Crispy Potato Chips: The crunch of potato chips adds a nice contrast to the creamy chicken salad.
Garden Salad: A light garden salad with a tangy dressing can complement the flavors and make the meal more filling.
Pickles: Serving pickles on the side adds a delightful tanginess that rounds out the meal.
Soup: Pairing with a light soup, like a vegetable or tomato soup, makes for a comforting and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Seasonal Veggies: Roasted or steamed vegetables can add color and nutrition to your plate, making it even more appealing.

FAQ

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for Honeycrisp and Granny Smith apples, feel free to experiment with your favorite apple varieties. Fuji, Gala, or even a tart Braeburn can work wonderfully. Each type of apple brings its own unique sweetness and crunch to the salad, allowing you to customize it to your taste.

Leftovers of the Apple Orchard Chicken Salad Sub can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just make sure to give it a good stir before serving again, as the ingredients may settle. This salad is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to grab a delicious, healthy lunch throughout the week!

Yes, the Apple Orchard Chicken Salad Sub is a healthy option! It combines lean protein from the chicken with the fiber and vitamins found in apples and celery. Additionally, using light mayonnaise keeps the dish creamy without adding too many calories. This makes it a nutritious choice for lunch or dinner, satisfying your cravings without the guilt.

Definitely! Adding nuts like toasted almonds or walnuts can provide a delightful crunch and enhance the flavor profile. Just toss in a handful of your preferred nuts when mixing the salad, and you’ll enjoy an extra layer of texture and taste in every bite.

Conclusion

The Apple Orchard Chicken Salad Sub is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that brings the essence of fall to your table. It’s an easy, delicious option for any meal, packed with nutrients and bursting with taste. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite in your household!