Save A festive and vibrant salad jar featuring layers of juicy chicken, crisp vegetables, tart cranberries, and a creamy dressing—perfect for meal prep or holiday gatherings.
This salad jar quickly became a holiday favorite in our household, combining fresh ingredients with ease of assembly and great flavor.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped (about 2 medium breasts)
- Vegetables: 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped, 1 cup red cabbage, finely shredded, 1 cup cucumber, diced, 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved, 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- Fruits & Nuts: 1/3 cup dried cranberries, 1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts, chopped
- Cheese: 1/3 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- Dressing: 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt, 2 tbsp mayonnaise, 1 1/2 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tbsp honey, 1/2 tsp Dijon mustard, salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Dressing:
- Whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Assemble Jars:
- Divide the dressing equally among 4 large mason jars (quart size recommended).
- Layer Ingredients:
- Layer cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, red cabbage, cooked chicken, dried cranberries, feta cheese, pecans or walnuts, and romaine lettuce on top in each jar.
- Seal and Refrigerate:
- Seal the jars and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Serve:
- Shake the jar well or pour contents into a bowl and toss to combine.
Save This recipe brings the family together, with everyone enjoying building their own jars and sharing the fresh flavors.
Notes
Add sliced avocado just before serving for creaminess. Use blue cheese instead of feta for a bolder flavor. Pair with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with citrus.
Required Tools
4 large mason jars with lids, chopping board and knife, mixing bowl and whisk.
Nutritional Information
Calories 340, Total Fat 16 g, Carbohydrates 26 g, Protein 25 g per serving.
Save This salad jar is an effortless delight that brightens up any meal. Perfect for both busy weekdays and festive occasions.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I substitute turkey for the chicken?
Yes, turkey works well as a substitute and provides a similar texture and flavor, enhancing the festive appeal.
- → What nuts are best for this salad?
Toasted pecans or walnuts complement the creamy dressing and add a pleasant crunch to the layered ingredients.
- → How should I store the layered salad jars?
Keep the jars refrigerated with tight lids to maintain freshness and separate textures until ready to serve.
- → Can I prepare the dressing in advance?
Yes, whisk the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, and seasonings ahead of time to streamline assembly before layering the salad.
- → What can I add for extra creaminess?
Adding sliced avocado just before serving introduces extra creaminess and a silky texture without overpowering flavors.
- → Are there alternative cheeses to feta?
Blue cheese can be used for a bolder, tangier flavor that pairs nicely with the tart cranberries and nuts.