Ryan Scott's Warm Chicken Salad with Dijon Sherry Vinaigrette

To prepare candied nuts:

Preheat oven to 325°F.

In a saucepan over medium heat, bring 1/4 cup water, honey, 1/4 cup sugar and vanilla to a boil until color changes to a deeper brown and sugar starts to crystallize. Add nuts and mix well until fully coated. Remove from heat and spread out evenly on to a wax paper-lined baking sheet. Bake until evenly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove, let cool and break apart. Combine remaining 1/4 cup sugar and a pinch of salt. With the nuts in a sieve, shake to remove excess sugar. 

To prepare salad

In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and sauté onions until tender and translucent. Stir in both mustards, vinegar, salt and pepper, and simmer for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Transfer to a large mixing bowl and whisk in olive oil.

Return 1/4 cup oil to saucepan and toss with chicken over medium heat until chicken is warm. 

Toss mixed greens with desired amount of warm vinaigrette. Top with chicken, candied nuts, apples and goat cheese.