Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Whenever I crave something light yet fulfilling, I make Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad. It is creamy, crunchy, a little sweet, and super easy to prepare. Most of all, it is so versatile- it can be served in sandwiches, on wraps, or on just a bed of lettuce. This is one of those recipes that feel fancy, yet hardly any effort has gone into preparation.

What is Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad?

The salad is ready with tender pieces of chicken, sweet, crispy dried cranberries, crunchy pecans, and creamy dressing to bind it all together. All the taste sensations-savoury, tangy, and a touch of sweetness-are in perfect balance. Sweet-sour, bright-colored dried cranberries with a slight chewiness, mixed with that nutty crunch of pecans. It is fresh and filling, ideal for making meals in advance or for quick lunches.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Salad Base

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• ½ cup dried cranberries
• ½ cup pecans, chopped
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 celery stalk, diced

Dressing

• ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. The chicken, cranberries, pecans, green onion, and celery will then come together in a mixing bowl.
2. Next, take another small bowl and whisk together mayonnaise, mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss well until everything is coated properly.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor before serving.

Storage Tips

• Can be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for 3 days.
• Stir before serving to refresh the dressing.
• Not freezer-friendly—the mayo dressing doesn’t hold up well when frozen.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve on croissants, bagels, and sandwich bread.
• Roll in tortillas for a simple lunch.
• Present in lettuce cups for a low-carb option.
• Perfect to be served as a side dish at picnics and potlucks.

Pro Tips and Variations

• Swap out the mayonnaise in this recipe and replace it with Greek yogurt to make everything healthier.
• Add diced apples or grapes to sweeten things up.
• Substitute walnuts or almonds in place of pecans.
• Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can be tossed in for extra flavor, enticing your tongue.

FAQs

Can you use canned chicken?

Yes! That works only in a pinch, as nothing beats the texture of freshly cooked chicken.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you serve it without bread or with gluten-free bread/wraps.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Yes. It tastes even better the next day once the flavors have melded.

What is the best chicken to use?

Rotisserie chicken is the easiest choice, but you can also use grilled or baked chicken.

Try It!

This Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is one of those recipes you’ll just keep coming back to. It’s quick, it’s flavorful, and it’s such a simple few meals. Try it for lunch this week, and love how fresh and satisfying it is!