### Crispy Chicken Salad with Sugared Pecans, Pears & Blue Cheese Recipe
#### Introduction:
Create a delicious and satisfying salad that combines crispy chicken, sweet pears, crunchy pecans, and creamy blue cheese. This recipe is perfect for a light yet satisfying meal or as an appetizer.
#### Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 large pear, cored and sliced
- 1 cup pecan pieces (unsalted)
- ¼ cup white sugar
- ½ cup blue cheese crumbles
- 3 cups mixed greens
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
#### Instructions:
1. **Preheat the Oven:**
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Prepare the Chicken:**
- Place the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap on a flat surface.
- Using a meat mallet, gently pound the chicken until it is about ½ inch thick and even in thickness.
3. **Season and Cook the Chicken:**
- Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Once hot, place the chicken breasts in the pan and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from heat.
4. **Make Sugared Pecans:**
- In a small bowl, combine pecan pieces with white sugar. Mix well to ensure even coating.
- Spread the coated pecans in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and fragrant.
5. **Prepare the Dressing:**
- In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and olive oil to make your dressing.
6. **Assemble the Salad:**
- Place mixed greens on individual plates.
- Top with sliced pear, cooked chicken, blue cheese crumbles, and toasted pecans.
- Drizzle with the balsamic dressing before serving.
7. **Serve:**
- Enjoy your crisp, sweet, and tangy salad that will satisfy any craving!
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- Crispy Chicken Salad
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- Pear Blue Cheese Salad
- Mixed Greens Chicken Salad
- Balsamic Dressing for Chicken
This recipe combines the flavors of crispy chicken with the sweetness of pears and the crunchiness of sugared pecans, all topped off with creamy blue cheese. Perfect for a healthy yet indulgent meal, it's sure to be a hit at your next gathering or simply as a delightful lunch.
#### Tips:
- To ensure the best flavor, make sure the chicken is pounded thin evenly.
- For an extra boost of flavor, add some finely chopped walnuts or almonds instead of pecans.
- Use fresh pears for the best taste and texture in this salad.