If you’re looking for a salad that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Chicken and Pear Salad with Walnuts and Blue Cheese Recipe is absolutely your go-to. It combines tender, juicy chicken with the sweetness of crisp pears, the crunchy delight of toasted walnuts, and the bold creaminess of blue cheese—all tossed into a bed of fresh mixed greens. With a simple yet zesty dressing pulling all these flavors together, this salad is both vibrant and satisfying, perfect for a wholesome lunch or a light dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl holds a fresh salad arranged in four distinct sections. On one side, there is a pile of bright green arugula leaves with a leafy texture. Next to the arugula, golden-brown chopped walnuts form a small mound with a rough texture. Adjacent to the nuts, slices of light yellow-green pear are neatly fanned out, showing a smooth and slightly shiny surface. The final section contains several pieces of cooked chicken, pale beige with a slightly browned crust and a firm texture. A woman's hand is pouring a vibrant yellow dressing from a small white pitcher over the salad. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Creating this chicken and pear salad is incredibly straightforward, thanks to a handful of essential ingredients. Each one brings something special to the table, from texture to taste and color, making the salad feel both balanced and exciting with every bite.

Cooked chicken breast: Sliced tenderly, it provides the hearty protein base to fuel your meal.
Pears: Sliced for a juicy, sweet contrast to the savory elements.
Mixed salad greens: A fresh, crisp canvas that adds vibrant color and lightness.
Blue cheese or feta: Crumbled to bring a creamy, tangy punch that elevates the dish.
Toasted walnuts: Crunchy and nutty, they add texture and a wonderful depth.
Olive oil: The smooth, fruity base for the dressing that ties everything together.
Apple cider vinegar: Adds brightness and a subtle tang to balance the sweetness.
Dijon mustard: Offers a gentle kick for a more complex dressing flavor.
Honey: Just a touch to enhance the pear’s natural sweetness and mellow the vinegar.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to make all the flavors sing.

How to Make Chicken and Pear Salad with Walnuts and Blue Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Salad Base

Place your fresh mixed salad greens into a large bowl, creating a light and inviting foundation. This ensures you get a delightful crunch and color burst with every forkful.

Step 2: Add the Chicken and Pears

Next, layer the sliced cooked chicken breast evenly over the greens, followed by the juicy sliced pears. These ingredients bring the perfect balance of savory and sweet that’s so irresistible.

Step 3: Sprinkle the Cheese and Walnuts

Now, generously crumble blue cheese or feta atop your salad and scatter toasted walnuts over everything. These add creamy tang and satisfyingly crunchy texture that make this salad unforgettable.

Step 4: Whisk the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. This dressing is the magic touch that ties all the flavors together with a lively but smooth finish.

Step 5: Dress and Toss

Drizzle the freshly mixed dressing over your salad and toss everything gently. Make sure every leaf and topping gets a little love from that bright, flavorful vinaigrette.

How to Serve Chicken and Pear Salad with Walnuts and Blue Cheese Recipe

Chicken and Pear Salad with Walnuts and Blue Cheese Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

For a little extra flair, consider topping your salad with thinly sliced green onions or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives. These add a fresh aroma and a pop of color that make your plate look stunning.

Side Dishes

This salad works beautifully alongside a warm baguette or crusty artisan bread to soak up any extra dressing. Pair it with a light soup or roasted vegetables for a more substantial meal that’s still nicely balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

To impress guests, serve individual portions on elegant salad plates, or create a layered salad in a clear glass trifle bowl to showcase all the vibrant colors. You can also skewer chicken and pear slices for bite-sized salad bites that are perfect for entertaining.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the salad components separately if possible—the greens should be kept chilled and dry, while the chicken, cheese, and pears can be refrigerated in airtight containers to keep flavors fresh and textures intact.

Freezing

While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftover cooked chicken separately. The fresh ingredients like pears and greens don’t freeze well, so prepare the salad fresh when needed for the best results.

Reheating

If you want to reheat the chicken for another salad serving, warm it gently in a pan or microwave just until heated through, taking care not to overcook and dry it out. Keep the other ingredients chilled and add them fresh.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While blue cheese offers a tangy creaminess that pairs wonderfully with pears and walnuts, feta or goat cheese also work beautifully if you prefer a milder flavor.

What’s the best way to toast walnuts?

To toast walnuts, simply place them in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently for about 5 minutes or until fragrant and lightly golden. This brings out their rich flavor and crunch.

Can I substitute apples for pears in this salad?

Yes, apples make a great alternative if pears aren’t in season. Choose crisp, sweet varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji to maintain that perfect balance of flavors.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

It sure is! Just keep the dressing separate and add it right before serving so your greens stay fresh and crisp. This makes it an excellent option for healthy lunches throughout the week.

Can I make the dressing in advance?

Definitely. The vinaigrette can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the fridge. Give it a good whisk or shake before drizzling over the salad to recombine any separated ingredients.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken and Pear Salad with Walnuts and Blue Cheese Recipe is a true delight that blends fresh, sweet, crunchy, and creamy elements into one harmonious bowl. Whether you’re feeding family or just treating yourself, it’s a recipe that’s quick, easy, and endlessly satisfying. Go ahead—take the plunge and bring this vibrant salad to your table. You’ll be so glad you did!