Pin this 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 has become a holiday favorite in my family, loved for its ease and fresh taste.
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 the 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:
- In each jar, 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.
Pin this Our family always looks forward to these jars at holiday gatherings — it's a healthy treat everyone enjoys.
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 are processed in allergen-safe facilities if required. Double-check ingredient labels for gluten if highly sensitive.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 340, Total Fat 16 g, Carbohydrates 26 g, Protein 25 g
Pin this This layered salad jar is a delicious, make-ahead dish that will brighten your holiday table.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → Can I substitute turkey for the chicken?
Yes, turkey makes a delightful alternative, enhancing the holiday flavors with a different but complementary protein.
- → How should I store the layered jars before serving?
Keep the jars sealed in the refrigerator until ready to serve to maintain freshness and crispness.
- → Are nuts necessary for this dish?
Nuts add texture and flavor, but you can omit or replace them with seeds for nut-free options.
- → Can I prepare the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, whisk the dressing ingredients and store in an airtight container in the fridge until assembly.
- → What is the best way to serve the salad from the jar?
Shake the jar well to mix or pour contents into a bowl and toss gently before serving.
- → Is the salad suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels if you have sensitivities.