Layered Holiday Chopped Chicken

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 making these salad jars for family gatherings because they are colorful, flavorful, and portable.

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.

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

My family loves grabbing these jars for a quick lunch together during the busy holiday season.

Notes

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.

Allergen Information

Contains dairy (Greek yogurt, feta cheese) and tree nuts (pecans/walnuts). Ensure nuts and cheese are processed in allergen-safe facilities if required. Double-check ingredient labels for gluten if highly sensitive.

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This recipe is a wholesome and festive dish to brighten your holiday meals.

Recipe FAQ

→ What is the best way to prepare the dressing?

Whisk Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth for a creamy dressing that complements the layers.

→ Can I substitute turkey for chicken?

Yes, turkey works well as a flavorful alternative to chicken for a seasonal twist.

→ How should I store the assembled salad jars?

Seal the jars tightly and refrigerate until ready to serve to maintain freshness and crispness.

→ What nuts can I use if I have allergies?

Consider omitting nuts or replacing with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower to avoid allergens.

→ Are there suggested pairings for this layered salad?

This dish pairs nicely with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with citrus for a refreshing balance.

→ Can I add avocado to this salad?

Adding sliced avocado just before serving introduces creamy texture without overwhelming other flavors.