A refreshing and vibrant salad combining the zest of citrus with the crunch of fresh vegetables and the richness of chicken.
Zest the oranges to obtain about 2 teaspoons of zest.
Use a microplane zester for the best results and avoid the bitter white pith.
Juice the oranges to get about 1/2 cup of juice.
Roll the oranges on the counter before juicing to maximize juice extraction.
In a bowl, whisk together the orange zest, mayonnaise, mustard, sugar, salt, black pepper, and minced garlic until smooth.
Ensure the garlic is finely minced to blend well into the dressing.
Slowly add the orange juice to the dressing mixture while whisking continuously.
Adding the juice gradually helps emulsify the dressing for a smoother texture.
Place the spinach in the bottom of a large serving bowl.
Ensure the spinach is washed and dried to prevent a soggy salad.
Dice the grilled chicken and celery into bite-sized pieces.
Cut the chicken into even pieces for consistent bites.
Core and dice the apple into small chunks.
Leave the skin on for added texture and nutrients.
Thinly slice the red onion.
Soak the onion slices in cold water for a milder flavor.
Layer the chicken, celery, apple, onion, cranberries, and pecans over the spinach.
Distribute the ingredients evenly for a visually appealing presentation.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
Add the dressing gradually to avoid overdressing the salad.
Serve immediately and enjoy your fresh Citrus Chicken Spinach Salad.
Garnish with additional orange segments for a vibrant touch.