Cozy Winter Cobb Salad with Roasted Chicken & Persimmons

Winter Cobb Salad with Roasted Chicken and Persimmons is the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. Imagine vibrant greens mingling with succulent roasted chicken, sweet persimmons, and a sprinkle of feta that dances in your mouth. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, teasing your taste buds and promising a flavor explosion that’s just waiting to happen.

I remember the first time I made this salad; it was during a particularly frosty winter. My friends were coming over for a dinner party, and I wanted to impress them without spending all day in the kitchen. As I tossed everything together, each bite reminded me of childhood family gatherings where laughter echoed around the dining table. This salad is perfect for cozy nights in or festive gatherings, making it an ideal dish to share with loved ones while embracing those delightful winter vibes.

Ingredients for Winter Cobb Salad with Roasted Chicken and Persimmons

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe; feel free to adjust based on your guest list.
• Fresh Persimmons: Choose ripe persimmons for their sweetness and unique flavor that pairs beautifully with savory elements.
• Mixed Greens: A blend of spinach, arugula, and romaine adds texture and nutrition; go for organic if possible!
• Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds a creamy tang; opt for high-quality cheese for the best flavor.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes provide juicy bursts; use assorted colors for visual appeal.
• Cucumbers: Thinly sliced cucumbers add crunch; Persian cucumbers work wonderfully due to their subtle sweetness.
• Pecan Nuts: Toasted pecans bring warmth and nuttiness; they also offer a delightful crunch in every bite.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Winter Cobb Salad with Roasted Chicken and Persimmons

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a baking dish and give it a light spray of nonstick cooking spray. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and maybe even some garlic powder if you’re feeling adventurous.

Step 2: Roast the Chicken

Place the chicken in the prepared baking dish. Roast it in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until fully cooked and no longer pink inside. Use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure—it should read about 165°F (74°C).

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper to create a zesty dressing that brings everything together so beautifully.

Step 4: Chop Your Vegetables

While waiting for the chicken to roast, chop up your mixed greens into bite-sized pieces. Slice those beautiful persimmons into thin wedges—trust me; they look stunning on your plate.

Step 5: Assemble Your Salad

Once the chicken cools down slightly after roasting, slice it into strips. In a large bowl or on individual plates, combine mixed greens, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese crumbles, pecans, and roasted chicken slices.

Step 6: Drizzle & Serve

Drizzle your homemade dressing over everything just before serving. Toss gently to combine all those delightful flavors without compromising presentation. Voilà! You’ve created an eye-catching Winter Cobb Salad with Roasted Chicken and Persimmons that will steal the show!

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy this vibrant feast as you cozy up indoors!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by roasting the chicken with herbs and spices to perfection. While that’s happening, chop fresh greens and slice persimmons. Assemble everything right before serving to keep it all fresh and vibrant.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap the roasted chicken for grilled tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian twist. You can also experiment with different nuts or dressings based on what you have handy.

Storing & Reheating

Store the salad components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat the chicken gently in the microwave or oven, but serve the salad cold for best results.

It was during a chilly family gathering that this Winter Cobb Salad truly shone. My cousin insisted she was a salad skeptic until she took one bite, then declared it her new favorite dish!

FAQs :

What ingredients do I need for Winter Cobb Salad with Roasted Chicken and Persimmons?

To prepare a delicious Winter Cobb Salad with Roasted Chicken and Persimmons, gather fresh greens like spinach or arugula, roasted chicken breast, ripe persimmons, crispy bacon, crumbled blue cheese, and hard-boiled eggs. You’ll also need cherry tomatoes and a simple vinaigrette made from olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. The combination of these ingredients creates a delightful mix of flavors and textures that make this salad perfect for winter gatherings or cozy dinners at home.

How do I roast the chicken for the salad?

Roasting chicken for your Winter Cobb Salad is simple. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs. Place them in a baking dish and roast for 25-30 minutes until fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces to add to your salad. This ensures the chicken remains juicy and flavorful.

Can I substitute persimmons in this salad?

Yes, you can definitely substitute persimmons in your Winter Cobb Salad if they are not available. Other fruits like pears or apples can provide a similar sweetness and crunch. You could also try using pomegranate seeds for a burst of color and tartness. Although the flavor will be different, these alternatives will still create an enjoyable dish that captures the essence of winter salads while maintaining balance and freshness.

How can I make this salad vegetarian-friendly?

To make your Winter Cobb Salad with Roasted Chicken and Persimmons vegetarian-friendly, simply omit the chicken and bacon. Replace them with plant-based protein options such as chickpeas or grilled tofu. You can also add more vegetables like roasted sweet potatoes or avocado for extra flavor. Keep the persimmons and other ingredients as they complement the overall taste beautifully. This way, everyone can enjoy a nutritious meal without compromising on flavor.

Conclusion for Winter Cobb Salad with Roasted Chicken and Persimmons :

In conclusion, the Winter Cobb Salad with Roasted Chicken and Persimmons is a delightful blend of fresh ingredients that celebrate winter flavors. With tender roasted chicken, sweet persimmons, crispy bacon, and creamy blue cheese, this salad offers both nutrition and taste. Easy to prepare and adaptable to various dietary needs, it’s an ideal choice for holiday gatherings or weeknight dinners. Enjoying this vibrant dish will surely warm your soul during chilly months!

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Winter Cobb Salad with Roasted Chicken and Persimmons

• Author: Sarah
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Salad
• Method: Roasting
• Cuisine: American

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Description

Savor the warmth of winter with this vibrant salad, featuring tender roasted chicken, sweet persimmons, and fresh greens—perfect for cozy gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 2 ripe persimmons, sliced
• 6 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, romaine)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1/2 cup toasted pecan nuts
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Place them in the prepared baking dish and roast for about 25-30 minutes until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
3. While the chicken is roasting, chop mixed greens into bite-sized pieces and slice persimmons into thin wedges.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
5. Once the chicken has cooled slightly, slice it into strips. In a large bowl or on individual plates, combine mixed greens, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese crumbles, pecans, and sliced chicken.
6. Drizzle your homemade dressing over everything just before serving. Toss gently to combine all ingredients without compromising presentation.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 salad (approximately 350g)
• Calories: 475
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 320mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Fiber: 7g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: - For a vegetarian option, substitute roasted chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas. - Feel free to swap out seasonal vegetables based on availability. - Store salad components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days.