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.
I enjoy layering the ingredients in each jar to create a colorful and flavorful salad that stays fresh for days—a true holiday favorite in my family.
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 dressing equally among 4 large mason jars (quart size recommended).
- Layer Ingredients:
- In each jar, layer cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, red cabbage, cooked chicken, dried cranberries, feta cheese, pecans or walnuts, and finish with romaine lettuce on top.
- Seal and Refrigerate:
- Seal jars and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Serve:
- Shake the jar well or pour contents into a bowl and toss to combine.
Save This salad has become a staple at our holiday gatherings, sparking conversations and compliments from family and friends alike.
Required Tools
4 large mason jars with lids, chopping board and knife, mixing bowl and whisk
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (Greek yogurt, feta cheese) and tree nuts (pecans or walnuts). Ensure nuts and cheese come from allergen-safe facilities if needed.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 340, Total Fat 16 g, Carbohydrates 26 g, Protein 25 g
Save This salad jar is a colorful, flavorful, and convenient way to enjoy a nutritious meal during the busy holiday season.
Recipe Guide
- → What is the best way to prepare the dressing?
Whisk Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper together until smooth for a balanced creamy dressing.
- → Can I substitute chicken with other proteins?
Yes, turkey works well as a substitute, providing a similar texture and flavor profile with a holiday twist.
- → How should I layer the ingredients in the jar?
Layer cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, red cabbage, cooked chicken, dried cranberries, feta cheese, nuts, and top with romaine lettuce for freshness.
- → How do I serve the layered salad jar?
Shake the jar well before opening or pour the contents into a bowl and toss gently to combine all layers evenly.
- → Are there recommended pairings for this dish?
A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling citrus water pairs nicely, enhancing the salad's bright flavors.
- → Can I make this salad jar ahead of time?
Yes, preparing the jars in advance is convenient for meal prep or holiday entertaining; keep refrigerated until serving.