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 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.
Save 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.