This Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is a tasty mix of juicy chicken, crunchy pecans, and sweet cranberries. It’s both fresh and filling—perfect for lunch or a light dinner!
Honestly, the combination of sweet and salty flavors makes my taste buds dance! I love serving it on a bed of greens or stuffed in a sandwich. It’s a win-win! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Use cooked chicken for convenience. Rotisserie chicken works really well here as it’s flavorful and saves you cooking time. You can also replace it with turkey if you have leftovers!
Cranberries: Dried cranberries offer a burst of sweetness. If you can’t find them, you can substitute with raisins or chopped dried cherries. You might want to adjust the honey amount if you’re using different dried fruit!
Pecans: Chopped pecans add a nice crunch. Walnuts or sliced almonds can be good alternatives if you prefer something different, or if you have nut allergies, sunflower seeds work too!
Mayonnaise: For a healthier twist, replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. It gives creaminess and adds protein, plus a bit of tang. If you need it dairy-free, try avocado or a vegan mayo.
Dijon Mustard: This ingredient adds a nice sharp flavor. If you don’t have it, yellow mustard is okay, but go easy on it as it can be stronger in taste.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Salad Is Well Mixed?
Mixing ingredients thoroughly is key for flavor. Here’s how to ensure everything is well combined:
- Start by finely chopping your celery and pecans to integrate them smoothly in the chicken. Bite-sized pieces make a big difference!
- When you prepare the dressing, whisk it until it’s completely smooth before adding it to the chicken mixture. This helps spread out the flavor evenly.
- When combining everything, use a gentle folding motion instead of stirring. This will keep the chicken pieces intact and create a lovely texture.
How to Make Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
- 1 cup celery, finely chopped
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup pecans, chopped
For the Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for sweetness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Lettuce leaves (for serving)
- Croissants or whole grain bread (for sandwiches)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chicken salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You can serve it right away or let it chill in the fridge for a bit. It’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days, so it’s perfect for make-ahead meals!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
Start by taking a large bowl and adding your cooked chicken, chopped celery, dried cranberries, and chopped pecans. Give it a good mix so all the ingredients are combined nicely.
2. Prepare the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey (if you’re using it), salt, and pepper. Mix until the dressing is smooth and all ingredients are blended well.
3. Combine Dressing with Salad:
Now, pour the dressing over your chicken mixture. Stir everything together until the chicken, celery, cranberries, and pecans are well-coated with that yummy dressing.
4. Taste and Adjust:
Take a moment to taste your salad. If you think it needs a little more salt, pepper, or sweetness, go ahead and add it in. Just mix again after adjusting the flavors.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, you can either scoop the salad onto a bed of lettuce for a fresh option or spoon it into croissants or slices of whole grain bread for delicious sandwiches. It’s all about how you like to enjoy it!
6. Store the Leftovers:
If you have any leftovers, transfer the chicken salad to an airtight container and keep it in the fridge. It’ll be good for up to 2 days, and the flavors will blend even more, making it taste even better!
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken Instead of Cooking My Own?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken can save you time and adds great flavor. Just make sure to shred or dice it before mixing with the other ingredients. It’s a convenient option that still maintains the deliciousness of the salad!
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
To make this salad lighter, you can swap the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or a light vinaigrette. This will cut down on calories while still providing a creamy texture. Additionally, you can increase the amount of celery for added crunch and fewer calories!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Make sure to give it a good stir before serving again, as the dressing may separate. If you’re using croissants or bread, consider storing the salad separately to keep the bread from getting soggy.
Can I Customize the Nuts or Fruits in This Salad?
Definitely! If you prefer, you can substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds. For the dried cranberries, feel free to use raisins, chopped apples, or dried cherries for a different twist. The beauty of this salad is its versatility!
