This Easy Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is fresh and tasty! With juicy chicken, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans, it’s a perfect mix for lunch or a light dinner.
I love how it comes together quickly. Just toss everything in a bowl, and lunch is ready! Plus, it’s a big hit at picnics. Who doesn’t like a little fruity crunch? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for a quick option. If you’re vegetarian, try chickpeas or tofu for a similar texture.
Dried Cranberries: They add sweetness. If you need a substitute, try raisins or dried cherries. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change a bit.
Pecans: Toasted pecans give great crunch. If you have nut allergies, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds work well too!
Mayonnaise: For a lighter option, replace some mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt. This adds creaminess without extra calories.
Dijon Mustard: Adds a nice tang. If you’re out, yellow mustard works, or even a splash of vinegar for acidity.
How Do I Make the Chicken Salad Extra Creamy?
The key to achieving that creamy texture lies in your dressing mix. Combining mayonnaise with Greek yogurt not only ups the creaminess but also provides a bit of tang.
- In a separate bowl, mix your mayonnaise and yogurt until smooth.
- Adding a touch of honey helps to balance the dressing and enhances the overall flavor.
- Mix all your chicken salad ingredients gently to avoid breaking up the chicken too much.
- Chill it for at least 30 minutes; this allows the dressing to soak into the chicken and other ingredients.
Easy Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped or shredded
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans, toasted
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon plain Greek yogurt (optional, for creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lettuce leaves or croissants, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chicken salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to chill, making it a perfect option for a quick lunch or a tasty picnic dish. You’ll spend a little time chopping and mixing, and then let it chill in the fridge to blend the flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Chicken and Veggies:
Start by taking a large mixing bowl. Add the chopped cooked chicken, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, finely chopped celery, and sliced green onions. Give it a gentle stir to combine all the ingredients well.
2. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (if you’re using it for extra creaminess), Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Keep whisking until everything is smooth and well combined.
3. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over your chicken mixture. Using a spatula or spoon, gently stir everything together until all the ingredients are coated evenly with the dressing.
4. Taste and Adjust:
Take a moment to taste the salad. If you’d like, you can add a little more salt and pepper to suit your preference! This step is important for making sure it’s just right for your palate.
5. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let the chicken salad chill for at least 30 minutes. This will help the flavors come together beautifully.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, it’s time to serve! You can enjoy the chicken salad on a lovely bed of lettuce, or scoop it into croissants for an easy and delicious sandwich. Either way, it’s going to be fantastic!
7. Delight in Your Creation:
Take a moment to appreciate your creation and enjoy your fresh and easy cranberry pecan chicken salad! Perfect for lunches, dinners, or even as a snack.
FAQ for Easy Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds flavor. Just shred or chop it up before mixing it with the other ingredients.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Chicken Salad?
Leftover chicken salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just keep it chilled and enjoy it within that time frame for the best flavor and freshness!
Can I Substitute Nuts If I Have Allergies?
Yes! If you have nut allergies, feel free to omit the pecans. You can also try sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for crunch without the risk of nuts.
Is It Possible to Make This Dish Vegan?
Certainly! For a vegan version, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or firm tofu, use vegan mayonnaise, and skip the honey. This will keep the salad tasty and plant-based!
