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As the crisp air of fall settles in, there’s nothing quite like a fresh, flavorful chicken salad to celebrate the season’s bounty.
Whether you’re craving the sweet crunch of apples, the tangy burst of cranberries, or the warm richness of roasted squash, fall chicken salad recipes offer a perfect blend of textures and tastes.
With over 26 delicious options to choose from, these salads are versatile enough to serve as a light lunch, a hearty dinner, or a delightful side dish.
Dive into this collection and discover how seasonal ingredients and comforting flavors come together in vibrant, satisfying meals that capture the essence of autumn.
26+ Fresh and Flavorful Fall Chicken Salad Recipes with Nuts and Fruits
Fall chicken salad recipes bring together the best flavors of the season in vibrant, versatile dishes that are easy to customize and enjoy.
Whether you prefer sweet and tangy, crunchy and savory, or creamy and hearty, this collection of over 26 recipes ensures there’s something for every palate.
Embrace the cozy spirit of autumn with these salads that transform simple ingredients into memorable meals perfect for any time of day.
Harvest Apple Chicken Salad
This salad bursts with the crisp sweetness of fresh apples balanced by tender, juicy chicken chunks.
The toasted pecans add a delightful crunch, while the creamy dressing offers a tangy finish that wakes up your taste buds.
Its vibrant aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg evokes cozy fall afternoons.
Perfect as a light lunch or paired with warm, crusty bread for a satisfying dinner.
Maple Walnut Chicken Salad
The subtle richness of maple syrup melds beautifully with roasted walnuts and succulent chicken in this autumn-inspired dish.
Each bite delivers a harmony of sweet and nutty flavors, complemented by the refreshing bite of leafy greens.
Its silky dressing coats the ingredients in a glossy sheen, making it both visually appealing and delicious on its own or atop a bed of quinoa.
Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad
Tart cranberries contrast wonderfully with savory chicken, while toasted pecans add a buttery crunch that makes every mouthful memorable.
The salad’s vibrant colors mirror the season’s fiery foliage, and the hint of citrus in the dressing brightens the palate.
This versatile salad shines whether served in a sandwich or as a hearty side.
Butternut Harvest Chicken Salad
Roasted butternut squash lends a sweet, earthy depth to this salad, paired with tender chicken and leafy greens.
The subtle smokiness of paprika and the freshness of thyme elevate the flavor profile, while creamy goat cheese adds a luscious tang.
This dish’s comforting aroma and rich textures make it a perfect standalone meal or an elegant appetizer.
Spiced Pear Chicken Salad
Juicy slices of spiced pear bring a fragrant warmth that complements the savory chicken and crunchy celery.
The addition of toasted almonds provides a satisfying texture contrast, and the honey-mustard dressing delivers a balanced sweetness and zing.
Its light yet indulgent character allows it to enhance any fall meal or serve as a refreshing midday treat.
Autumn Harvest Chicken Salad
This salad combines roasted sweet potatoes and golden raisins with tender chicken to create a medley of sweet and savory flavors.
The cinnamon-scented dressing ties everything together with a cozy warmth, and the mix of textures—from creamy avocado to crisp greens—keeps every bite interesting.
Enjoy it on its own for a wholesome meal or as a flavorful side to roasted dishes.
Cranberry Chicken Salad
Sweet and tart cranberries mingle with tender chicken to create a vibrant, festive flavor.
Crunchy celery and toasted almonds add a satisfying texture contrast that keeps every bite interesting.
The light citrus dressing brightens the salad, making it a refreshing choice for lunch or a colorful side for dinner.
Pecan Chicken Salad
Roasted pecans bring a rich nuttiness that perfectly complements the juicy, savory chicken.
Mixed greens and crisp apples add layers of freshness and crunch to the dish.
A honey-Dijon vinaigrette ties the flavors together, making this salad a versatile meal or an elegant starter.
Pumpkin Chicken Salad
Creamy pumpkin puree blends smoothly with shredded chicken for a subtly sweet, earthy taste.
Warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg fill the air as you enjoy this comforting fall favorite.
Its hearty texture and warm flavors make it ideal for a standalone meal or a side dish at holiday gatherings.
Fig Chicken Salad
Juicy figs add a natural sweetness that balances the savory chicken and sharp goat cheese.
Toasted walnuts introduce a crunchy contrast, while baby spinach provides a fresh, green base.
This salad’s sophisticated flavors work well as a light lunch or an appetizer for special occasions.
Maple Chicken Salad
Maple syrup lends a gentle sweetness that enhances the tender chicken without overpowering it.
Crisp bacon bits and roasted squash add smoky and earthy notes, creating a complex flavor profile.
Enjoy this salad on its own or paired with a warm roll for a cozy fall meal.
Apple Walnut Chicken Salad
Crisp apple slices add a juicy bite that pairs beautifully with crunchy walnuts and savory chicken.
A creamy yogurt-based dressing adds a tangy smoothness that ties all the elements together.
This salad shines as a quick lunch or a delightful addition to any autumn picnic.
Autumn Chicken Salad
Tender chicken mingles with roasted root vegetables, offering a warm and hearty flavor.
Fresh kale adds a slight bitterness that balances the sweetness of caramelized onions.
Drizzled with a maple-balsamic dressing, this salad is perfect for a nourishing meal or a festive side.
Harvest Chicken Salad
Juicy chicken pairs with crisp apples and crunchy pecans for a satisfying texture contrast.
Dried cranberries add a burst of tartness that livens up every bite.
Its creamy dressing ties the ingredients together, making it ideal for sandwiches or as a standalone dish.
Walnut Chicken Salad
Toasted walnuts bring a deep, nutty flavor that enhances the tender shredded chicken.
Chopped celery and grapes add refreshing crunch and subtle sweetness.
Lightly dressed with lemon vinaigrette, it’s a versatile option for lunch or a light dinner.
Sage Chicken Salad
Earthy sage leaves infuse this salad with a warm, aromatic note alongside tender chicken pieces.
Butternut squash cubes and toasted pumpkin seeds add richness and texture.
Perfect for enjoying on its own or wrapped in a whole grain pita for a wholesome meal.
Cinnamon Chicken Salad
A hint of cinnamon in the dressing adds a cozy warmth that complements savory chicken.
Diced apples and toasted almonds bring fresh crispness and crunch to every bite.
This salad makes a flavorful lunch or a festive addition to your autumn table.
Pear Chicken Salad
Sweet, juicy pear slices combine with tender chicken and crunchy walnuts in this elegant salad.
A honey-mustard dressing adds a balanced zing that brightens the flavors.
Enjoy it solo or atop mixed greens for a light and refreshing fall meal.
Apple Chicken Salad
Juicy chunks of chicken blend seamlessly with crisp apple slices, creating a refreshing balance of savory and sweet.
Toasted walnuts add a satisfying crunch that complements the tender textures.
The light yogurt-based dressing adds a tangy creaminess, making it perfect for a quick lunch or a flavorful snack.
Cranberry Chicken Salad
Bright, tart cranberries contrast beautifully with tender chicken and crunchy celery for a dynamic flavor experience.
A hint of orange zest in the dressing adds a fresh, citrusy aroma that awakens the senses.
This salad stands out as a festive side dish or a light, satisfying meal on its own.
Maple Chicken Salad
Sweet maple syrup infuses the chicken with subtle warmth and depth, enhanced by roasted pecans’ earthy crunch.
Fresh baby spinach leaves provide a vibrant base that balances the richer flavors.
Ideal as a hearty lunch or a savory addition to fall dinner gatherings.
Conclusion
With more than 26 fall chicken salad recipes at your fingertips, you can easily add variety and warmth to your seasonal menu.
These recipes celebrate the harvest with fresh produce, nuts, and spices, making each salad a satisfying and nutritious choice.
Whether served alone or alongside your favorite fall dishes, these chicken salads promise delicious flavors and wholesome comfort all season long.
