Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful dish that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory, this Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe is just what you need! It’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Whether I’m in a rush on a busy weeknight or hosting a family gathering, this salad never fails to impress. Plus, it comes together in just 15 minutes, making it an absolute lifesaver when time is tight.

This recipe is not only delicious but also super versatile. You can serve it as a light main course or as a side dish at your next potluck. Trust me, once you try this salad, you’ll find yourself making it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes needed, you can whip this up in no time!
• Family-Friendly: The sweet cranberries and crunchy pecans make it appealing to both kids and adults.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it ahead of time and let the flavors meld in the fridge; it’s even better the next day!
• Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with nutrients from chicken, fruits, and nuts, this salad is both tasty and nutritious.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own, in a sandwich, or as a filling for lettuce wraps!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s take a look at the simple and wholesome ingredients you’ll need for this Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad. They are easy to find and come together beautifully to create a dish that’s both satisfying and flavorful.

• 3 cups cooked chicken breast (or rotisserie chicken, pulled)
• 2 celery stalks (cut down the middle and sliced)
• 3 tbsp red onion (minced)
• 1/2 apple (chopped)
• 1/3 cup dried cranberries (chopped)
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (or light sour cream — adjust based on your preference)
• 1/2 cup light mayonnaise
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 2 tsp fresh parsley (minced)
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (toasted or candied)

Variations

One of the great things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey or tofu instead of chicken for a delicious twist.
• Add more crunch: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or carrots for extra texture.
• Mix up the fruits: Substitute raisins or chopped grapes if cranberries aren’t your favorite.
• Change up the dressing: Use avocado instead of yogurt for a creamy, dairy-free version!

How to Make Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe

Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, celery, red onion, apple, and dried cranberries. Mixing these ingredients first ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor. The combination of textures will make each forkful exciting!

Step 2: Whisk Together the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt (or sour cream), mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, parsley, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This creamy dressing brings all the elements together. Whisking helps create a smooth consistency that will coat your salad perfectly.

Step 3: Toss Everything Together

Pour the dressing into the large bowl with your chicken mixture. Toss everything gently until well combined. This step is important because it ensures that every ingredient gets that delicious flavor from the dressing.

Step 4: Chill Before Serving

Refrigerate for at least one hour before serving. Letting the salad sit allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully! Just before serving, fold in the toasted pecans for that lovely crunch.

And there you have it! A refreshing Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe that’s sure to become one of your favorites. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe

Creating the perfect Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is all about the little details, and I’ve got some tips to help you make it truly special!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh celery, apples, and herbs not only add flavor but also enhance the overall texture of your salad, making each bite a delightful experience.
• Toast Your Pecans: Toasting the pecans intensifies their flavor and adds a delightful crunch, taking your salad from good to great.
• Chill Before Serving: Allowing your salad to chill for at least an hour before serving lets the flavors meld together beautifully, resulting in a more delicious dish.
• Customize Your Dressing: Feel free to adjust the amount of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise to suit your taste. This flexibility allows you to create a creaminess level that’s just right for you.
• Add Extra Crunch: For an added layer of texture, consider including chopped bell peppers or even sunflower seeds. They provide a nice contrast to the creaminess of the dressing.

How to Serve Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe

This salad not only tastes amazing but can also be presented in various ways that are sure to impress your guests or family. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game!

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley on top gives your salad a beautiful pop of color and freshness.
• Cranberry Sprinkles: A few whole dried cranberries scattered on top not only look appealing but also reinforce the sweet-tart flavor profile.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A light mixed green salad with a simple vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken salad while providing additional nutrients.
• Crusty Bread or Rolls: Serve with warm crusty bread or soft dinner rolls for those who enjoy scooping up their salad or creating bite-sized sandwiches.
• Vegetable Sticks: Fresh carrot and cucumber sticks provide a refreshing crunch that pairs well with the creamy chicken salad and makes for a healthy side.
• Fruit Platter: A colorful fruit platter featuring seasonal fruits offers a refreshing contrast in flavors, balancing out the savory notes of the chicken salad nicely.

With these serving tips and garnishes, your Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad will be not just a meal but an experience! Enjoy every delicious bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is not only a delicious meal but also an excellent option for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, making weeknight dinners or lunches a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
• Avoid adding pecans until you’re ready to serve to maintain their crunch.

Freezing

• This chicken salad does not freeze well due to the mayonnaise and yogurt.
• If you do wish to freeze it, leave out the dressing and nuts before freezing.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before mixing in the dressing and pecans.

Reheating

• This salad is best enjoyed cold, so there’s no need to reheat it!
• If you prefer it warm, gently microwave just until warmed through (about 30 seconds) but be cautious not to overheat.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe:

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for the Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe?

Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver. Just pull off the meat and shred it before mixing with the other ingredients.

How do I customize my Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe?

Feel free to add your favorite ingredients! Consider including grapes, walnuts, or even diced bell peppers for an extra crunch and flavor boost.

Is this Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe healthy?

Yes! This recipe has a great balance of protein from chicken, healthy fats from pecans, and fiber from fruits and vegetables, making it a wholesome meal option.

How long does this salad last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, your chicken salad will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad! It’s perfect for busy weeknights or as a refreshing lunch option. The balance of sweet cranberries and crunchy pecans makes every bite satisfying. I’m excited for you to try it out—happy cooking!