2 large chicken breasts, cooked and diced into bite sized pieces
4 cups chopped kale, tough stems removed
1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cubed
1 large honeycrisp apple, chopped
4 slices turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
1/4 cup toasted pecan halves
1/4 cup dried cranberries
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Toss the cubed sweet potato with a small drizzle of oil and a pinch of salt on a baking sheet. Roast for about 15 to 20 minutes until they are fork tender and slightly browned on the edges. Remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
Place the chopped kale in a large mixing bowl. Add a tiny splash of olive oil and a pinch of salt, then use your hands to gently massage the leaves for about two minutes. This process breaks down the tough fibers of the kale, making it much more tender and easier to digest while also helping it absorb the flavors of the dressing.
While the potatoes roast, cook the turkey bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it reaches your desired level of crispiness. Once finished, transfer the strips to a paper towel to drain any excess moisture and then crumble them into small pieces. This adds a wonderful savory element to the final dish.
In a small jar or bowl, combine the extra virgin olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, sea salt, and black pepper. Whisk or shake vigorously until the ingredients are fully emulsified. The sweetness of the maple syrup perfectly complements the tanginess of the vinegar, creating a classic autumn flavor profile.
To the bowl of massaged kale, add the diced chicken, roasted sweet potatoes, chopped apples, crumbled turkey bacon, pecans, and dried cranberries. Pour the dressing over the ingredients and toss everything together until the leaves and toppings are evenly coated. Serve immediately or let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
