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 ahead of time as a colorful and easy-to-grab lunch that stays fresh and delicious.
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 in each jar.
- Store:
- 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 assembling these jars together on holiday mornings and enjoying the fresh flavors throughout the week.
Notes
Substitute turkey for chicken for an extra holiday twist. Add sliced avocado just before serving for creaminess. 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 or walnuts). Ensure nuts and cheese are processed in allergen-safe facilities if required. Double-check ingredient labels for gluten if highly sensitive.
Save This layered salad jar keeps well when refrigerated and is perfect for quick, festive meals.
Recipe FAQs
- → 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 tangy, creamy dressing that complements the salad layers.
- → Can I substitute chicken with another protein?
Turkey works well as a substitution, providing a similar texture and flavor profile, especially suited for holiday variations.
- → How should I assemble the salad jar layers?
Layer ingredients starting with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, red cabbage, chicken, dried cranberries, feta cheese, nuts, and finish with romaine lettuce on top.
- → What are good serving suggestions for this dish?
Shake the jar before serving or pour contents into a bowl and toss to combine. Pair with crisp Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling citrus water for a refreshing complement.
- → Are there any common allergens in this dish?
Yes, it contains dairy from Greek yogurt and feta, along with tree nuts such as pecans or walnuts. Check ingredient sources if allergies are a concern.