Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is a perfect blend of savory, sweet, and crunchy. Juicy chicken, tart dried cranberries, and buttery pecans come together in a creamy dressing, making it ideal for sandwiches, wraps, or enjoying on its own. It’s a versatile and satisfying dish that’s great for meal prep, picnics, or light lunches.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

cooked chicken breastroughly chopped dried cranberrieschopped pecansmayonnaiseGreek yogurt (optional for a lighter version)celery (finely chopped)red onion (finely chopped)Dijon mustardsaltpepperlemon juice

directions

In a large bowl, combine chopped chicken, dried cranberries, pecans, celery, and red onion.

In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (if using), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until everything is well coated.

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

Serve on toasted bread, in wraps, with crackers, or over a bed of greens.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesChill time: 30 minutesTotal time: 45 minutes

Variations

Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.

Swap pecans with walnuts or sliced almonds.

Add diced apples or grapes for extra sweetness and texture.

Use avocado mayo for a healthier twist.

Add fresh herbs like parsley or dill for extra flavor.

storage/reheating

Store Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Not suitable for freezing due to the mayo-based dressing.Best served chilled; no reheating required.

FAQs

Can I use canned chicken?

Yes, just be sure to drain it well and break it apart with a fork.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, use only mayonnaise and skip the Greek yogurt.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely, it tastes even better after chilling for a few hours or overnight.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the salad itself is gluten-free. Just serve with gluten-free bread or crackers if needed.

What kind of pecans should I use?

Toasted pecans add extra flavor, but raw pecans also work well.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, try adding chopped bell peppers or shredded carrots for more crunch.

Can I use light mayo?

Yes, light mayo or even plain Greek yogurt can lighten the dish.

What type of chicken is best?

Grilled, poached, or rotisserie chicken all work great.

Is it kid-friendly?

Yes, kids usually enjoy the mild and creamy flavor.

Can I turn this into a sandwich?

Definitely, it’s perfect for sandwiches, croissants, or wraps.

Conclusion

Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that balances creamy, crunchy, sweet, and savory elements. Whether you’re packing lunch or hosting a casual brunch, this salad is a crowd-pleaser that’s both wholesome and delicious.

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