Save A hearty, vibrant salad featuring juicy roasted chicken, caramelized winter squash, and crisp greens baked on a single sheet pan for easy prep and clean-up. Perfect for a cozy, flavorful meal.
The first time I made this salad, the comforting aroma of roasted squash and chicken filled the kitchen. It quickly became a weeknight favorite because of its color, ease, and heartiness.
Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: 4 pieces (about 500 g)
- Winter squash (butternut or acorn): 700 g (1.5 lbs), peeled, seeded, cut into 2 cm (¾-inch) cubes
- Red onion: 1 small, cut into thin wedges
- Mixed baby greens: 120 g (4 cups) (arugula, spinach, or baby kale)
- Olive oil: 3 tbsp, divided
- Balsamic vinegar: 2 tbsp
- Dijon mustard: 1 tbsp
- Maple syrup or honey: 1 tbsp
- Garlic clove: 1, minced
- Dried thyme: 1 tsp
- Smoked paprika: ½ tsp
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: to taste
- Toasted pecans: 50 g (½ cup), roughly chopped
- Feta cheese (optional): 60 g (½ cup), crumbled
- Fresh parsley: 1 tbsp, chopped
Instructions
- Prep sheet pan:
- Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F) and line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
- Make dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, maple syrup, garlic, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate chicken:
- Place chicken thighs in a large bowl. Add 3 tbsp of the marinade, toss to coat, and set aside to marinate for 10 minutes.
- Prepare vegetables:
- On the prepared sheet pan, arrange the squash cubes and red onion wedges. Drizzle with remaining 1 tbsp olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss to coat.
- Arrange chicken and roast:
- Nestle the marinated chicken among the vegetables on the sheet pan.
- Bake:
- Roast in the oven for 30–35 minutes, flipping vegetables halfway, until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 74°C/165°F) and squash is tender and caramelized.
- Rest and slice chicken:
- Remove chicken and let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
- Assemble salad:
- In a large bowl, toss roasted vegetables with greens and half the remaining dressing.
- Finish and serve:
- Arrange salad on plates. Top with sliced chicken, toasted pecans, feta, and parsley. Drizzle with additional dressing as desired. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Save This salad was a hit at our family dinner table, getting everyone excited for hearty winter meals. The kids loved helping toss everything together and sprinkle on the garnishes.
Required Tools
Large sheet pan, parchment paper, mixing bowls, whisk, chefs knife, cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (feta); omit or substitute for a dairy-free option. Contains nuts (pecans); omit or use seeds for nut-free. Double-check mustard, vinegar, and cheese labels for gluten or other allergens if necessary.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 430, Total Fat 22 g, Carbohydrates 28 g, Protein 31 g
Save This beautiful salad brings color and warmth to any table. Serve with a crisp white wine for the ultimate winter meal.
Recipe Guide
- → How can I ensure the chicken stays juicy?
Marinating the chicken with olive oil, vinegar, mustard, and spices helps lock in moisture and enhances flavor during roasting.
- → Can I substitute the winter squash with other vegetables?
Yes, sweet potatoes are a great alternative that also caramelize well and complement the flavors.
- → What is the best way to toast pecans for this dish?
Toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant and lightly browned, stirring often to prevent burning.
- → Is it possible to prepare this dish dairy-free?
Yes, simply omit the feta cheese or use a plant-based alternative for similar creaminess without dairy.
- → How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) and no longer appear pink inside when sliced.
- → What dressing is recommended for this salad?
Using a marinade-based dressing with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and maple syrup ties together the roasted flavors perfectly.