Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is a delightful blend of tender chicken, sweet cranberries, crunchy pecans, and a creamy dressing. This versatile recipe works perfectly as a sandwich filling, a topping for leafy greens, or as a dip for crackers. It’s ideal for meal prep, potlucks, or light lunches.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spoon or spatula for mixing

Ingredients Overview

• Chicken: Cooked and shredded chicken is the star of this salad. Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• Dried Cranberries: Add a sweet, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory elements.
• Pecans: Provide a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor.
• Celery: Adds freshness and additional crunch.
• Mayonnaise: Acts as the creamy base for the dressing. Greek yogurt can be used as a lighter alternative.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and a touch of Dijon mustard elevate the flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

• Shred or chop 2 cups of cooked chicken.
• Dice 1/2 cup celery into small pieces.
• Roughly chop 1/3 cup pecans for texture.

2. Mix the Dressing

• In a mixing bowl, combine:
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • (Optional) 1 tablespoon honey for added sweetness

3. Combine the Salad

• Add the shredded chicken, celery, 1/3 cup dried cranberries, and chopped pecans to the bowl with the dressing.
• Mix everything thoroughly until evenly coated.

4. Chill and Serve

• Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
• Serve on bread, in wraps, over a bed of greens, or with crackers.

Recipe Tips

• Toast the pecans in a dry skillet for extra flavor before adding them to the salad.
• For a lighter version, use half mayonnaise and half plain Greek yogurt.
• Add chopped apples or grapes for extra sweetness and texture.

What to Serve With This Recipe

• Fresh fruit, such as apple slices or grapes
• Crackers or pita chips
• A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad can be made up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Can I use other nuts?
Absolutely! Walnuts or slivered almonds work well as substitutes for pecans.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh. Freezing may alter the texture of the mayonnaise and celery.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/3 cup dried cranberries
• 1/3 cup pecans, chopped
• 1/2 cup celery, diced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• (Optional) 1 tablespoon honey

Instructions

1. Shred or chop the cooked chicken.
2. Dice the celery and chop the pecans.
3. Mix mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and honey in a bowl.
4. Add chicken, celery, cranberries, and pecans to the dressing. Mix thoroughly.
5. Chill for 30 minutes, then serve as desired.

Enjoy this Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad for a refreshing and satisfying meal!

Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is a delightful blend of tender chicken, sweet cranberries, crunchy pecans, and a creamy dressing. This versatile recipe works perfectly as a sandwich filling, a topping for leafy greens, or as a dip for crackers. It's ideal for meal prep, potlucks, or light lunches.

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Equipment

• Kitchen Equipment Needed:
• Mixing bowls 
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spoon or spatula for mixing

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups cooked chicken shredded or diced
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/3 cup dried cranberries
• 1/3 cup pecans chopped
• 1/2 cup celery diced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional 1 tablespoon honey

Instructions

 

• Shred or chop the cooked chicken.
• Dice the celery and chop the pecans.
• Mix mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and honey in a bowl.
• Add chicken, celery, cranberries, and pecans to the dressing. Mix thoroughly.
• Chill for 30 minutes, then serve as desired.