MIXED FRUIT CHICKEN SALAD

This was one of my very favorite summer recipes. I made it for friends for lunch on many occasions, and was always excited have some left over, so I could have it again the next day.
I loved, loved, loved the combination of fruit, celery and chicken, and the vinaigrette was absolutely divine! I noticed the spiciness would change, depending on the heat of the jalapeño that was used. But I found the sweet spiciness to be irresistible!

MIXED FRUIT CHICKEN SALAD

1/4 cup chopped walnuts
4 cups chopped cooked chicken breasts
2 cups seedless red and green grapes, halved
2 celery ribs, chopped
1 (11 ounce) can mandarin oranges, drained
1 cup chopped fresh pineapple
1/4 teaspoon salt
orange vinaigrette

Heat oven to 350F. Bake walnuts in a single layer in a shallow pan, 6 to 7 minutes or until toasted and fragrant, stirring halfway through.
Toss together chicken and next 5 ingredients in a large bowl. Add vinaigrette, toss to coat. Sprinkle with walnuts and serve immediately.

ORANGE VINAIGRETTE

1/2 cup orange marmalade
1/4 cup white balsamic vinegar
1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
2 tablespoons olive oil

Stir together all ingredients.
Enjoy!

Recipe adapted from Southern Living, May 2012
www.southernliving.com/