Copycat Culver’s Chicken Cashew Salad

 A Copycat Culver’s Chicken Cashew Salad is a delicious, hearty salad featuring grilled chicken, cashews, and a blend of fresh vegetables, all topped with a creamy dressing. It’s a fantastic combination of textures and flavors, from the crunchy cashews to the tender chicken. Here’s a recipe that mimics the popular Culver’s salad:

Ingredients:

For the Salad:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (grilled or baked)

4 cups mixed greens (romaine lettuce, spinach, or a blend)

1/4 cup roasted cashews, chopped or whole

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup grape tomatoes, halved

1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

1/4 cup cucumber, sliced

1/4 cup shredded carrots

1/4 cup crispy bacon bits (optional)

1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional)

For the Dressing (Creamy Honey Mustard Dressing):

1/4 cup mayonnaise

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

2 tablespoons honey

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the Chicken:

1. Grill or Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and any desired spices. Grill or bake the chicken until fully cooked (about 6-8 minutes per side on the grill or 20-25 minutes in the oven at 375°F). Once cooked, slice the chicken into strips or cubes.

Prepare the Salad:

1. Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl or on a serving platter, layer the mixed greens. Add the sliced chicken on top, followed by the tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, shredded carrots, and cashews. If using, sprinkle the crispy bacon bits and dried cranberries on top.

Make the Dressing:

1. Prepare the Honey Mustard Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

Assemble the Dish:

1. Serve the Salad: Drizzle the creamy honey mustard dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine, or serve the dressing on the side.

Tips:

For Extra Flavor: Add sliced avocado or roasted sweet potato for a more filling salad.

For a Lighter Version: You can use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise for a tangy twist and lighter dressing.

For Meal Prep: Keep the dressing separate from the salad to avoid wilting the greens if you’re making it ahead of time.

This Copycat Culver’s Chicken Cashew Salad offers a delicious balance of sweet, savory, and creamy flavors, with the perfect crunch from the cashews and bacon. It's a great meal option for lunch or dinner!