This easy cranberry pecan chicken salad is a winner! It mixes tender chicken, crunchy pecans, and sweet cranberries for a tasty lunch or snack.
I love how the flavors all play together, like a little party in your mouth! Perfect on a sandwich or just by itself—no fancy stuff needed here! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I prefer cooked chicken breast because it’s lean and shreds easily. You can also use rotisserie chicken for convenience or leftover grilled chicken for added flavor!
Cranberries: Dried cranberries are sweet and chewy, which is perfect! If you’re looking for something less sweet, try using dried cherries or raisins instead.
Pecans: These add a great crunch! If you don’t have pecans on hand, walnuts or slivered almonds work well too. You can even leave them out for a nut-free option.
Mayonnaise & Greek Yogurt: I like mixing both for a creamy texture with some added protein from the yogurt. If you need a lighter version, use low-fat mayonnaise or swap both for avocado for a different twist.
How Do I Make the Chicken Salad Extra Flavorful?
Getting the best flavor in your chicken salad is important! Here are my tips:
- Season the dressing well with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy to taste and adjust!
- Add a dash of garlic powder or onion powder for extra zing in the dressing.
- Let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors blend beautifully!
- Consider adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley for a fresh touch.
With these tips, you’ll have a tasty chicken salad that’s packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion!
Easy Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped or shredded
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt (optional for creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Lettuce leaves (optional, for serving)
- Croissants or sandwich bread (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chicken salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator, making a total of approximately 45 minutes before it’s ready to serve. It’s perfect for meal prep or an easy lunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Ingredients:
Start by taking a large bowl and adding the chopped or shredded cooked chicken, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, and finely chopped celery. This combination gives you a delightful mix of flavors and textures!
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (if you want some extra creaminess), lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until everything is well blended and smooth. This dressing is the secret to creamy and tasty chicken salad!
3. Combine the Mixtures:
Now, pour the dressing over the chicken mixture. Gently stir everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. This step ensures every bite is flavorful!
4. Taste Test and Adjust:
Before chilling, take a moment to taste your salad. If it needs a little more salt, pepper, or lemon juice, feel free to adjust to your liking! It’s all about making it perfect for you.
5. Chill the Salad:
Once everything is mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and become even more delicious!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
After chilling, it’s time to serve! You can enjoy this chicken salad chilled on a bed of lettuce, or on buttery croissants or your favorite sandwich bread. It’s also tasty on its own, so dig in!
This easy cranberry pecan chicken salad is a delightful dish that’s perfect for a light meal or a quick snack. Its combination of sweet, creamy, and crunchy textures makes every bite enjoyable!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Fresh Chicken Instead of Cooked?
Absolutely! If you’re starting with raw chicken, you’ll need to cook it first. Boil, grill, or bake the chicken breast until fully cooked, then let it cool before chopping or shredding it for the salad.
How Long Does This Chicken Salad Last in the Fridge?
Your cranberry pecan chicken salad will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. Just give it a good stir before serving again as ingredients may settle!
Can I Make This Chicken Salad Vegetarian?
Yes! For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with cooked chickpeas or diced tofu. You’ll still get a great mix of protein and flavor along with the cranberries and pecans!
What Should I Serve with This Chicken Salad?
This salad is delicious on its own, but you can serve it on croissants, sandwich bread, or over lettuce with some fresh veggies. It also pairs perfectly with a side of fruit or a light soup for a complete meal.
