Brighten up your mealtime with this Fruity Chicken Rice Salad, a refreshing fusion of savory and sweet flavors that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or potlucks. This vibrant dish combines tender shredded chicken, fluffy white or nutty brown rice, and an array of fresh fruits like juicy pineapple, crisp apple, and sweet red grapes, creating a delightful burst of textures and tastes in every bite. Elevated by crunchy celery, optional nuts for added richness, and a zesty honey-lemon dressing, this chilled salad is both satisfying and nutrient-packed. Ready in just 15 minutes of prep time, it’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing recipe that's ideal for healthy eating and easy meal prep. Serve it as a light main dish or a colorful side—perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Start by preparing your ingredients. If the rice is not already cooked, cook it according to package instructions and allow it to cool completely. Shred or cube the cooked chicken breast.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled rice, shredded chicken, pineapple chunks, halved red grapes, diced apple, chopped celery, and nuts if using.
In a small bowl, prepare the dressing by whisking together honey, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
Pour the dressing over the rice and chicken mixture. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly coated.
Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the salad and give it a final toss.
Cover the salad and chill in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Before serving, give the salad a quick stir and taste for seasoning. Add more salt or pepper if needed.
Serve cold as a main dish or side salad. Enjoy!
Calories |
2174 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 83.4 g | 107% | |
| Saturated Fat | 12.8 g | 64% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 304 mg | 101% | |
| Sodium | 1547 mg | 67% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 228.5 g | 83% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 17.1 g | 61% | |
| Total Sugars | 87.3 g | ||
| Protein | 133.6 g | 267% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 270 mg | 21% | |
| Iron | 13.6 mg | 76% | |
| Potassium | 2529 mg | 54% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.