If you are searching for a delightful, easy-to-make dish that truly shines with a perfect balance of sweet, nutty, and savory flavors, the Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe is an absolute must-try. This salad brings together tender chicken, the tartness of dried cranberries, and the satisfying crunch of pecans, all dressed in a creamy, subtly sweet dressing that elevates every bite. It is not only a fantastic lunch option but also a crowd-pleaser for potlucks, picnics, or quick dinners. Once you make this recipe, it will quickly become a favorite to bring out again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is wonderfully straightforward, relying on simple, fresh ingredients that each play an essential role in delivering the salad’s irresistible flavor and texture. From the creamy mayonnaise to the crunchy celery and flavorful pecans, every component is a star in this Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe.
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped: The hearty base that brings protein and substance to the salad.
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries: Adds a burst of sweet and tangy flavor with chewy texture.
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped: Offers a buttery crunch that contrasts beautifully with the softness of the chicken.
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped: Brings fresh crispness and subtle earthiness to every bite.
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced: Adds a gentle, sharp bite without overpowering the dish.
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option): Creates a creamy dressing that binds everything together perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Balances the tartness with a touch of natural sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Provides a subtle kick and depth of flavor.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance all the other ingredients.
- Optional: fresh parsley or green onions for garnish: Adds a pop of color and fresh flavor as a finishing touch.
How to Make Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Main Ingredients
Start by combining your shredded or chopped cooked chicken with the dried cranberries, chopped pecans, celery, and finely diced red onion in a large bowl. This mix sets the foundation for the salad, blending a variety of textures and flavors that make every bite interesting.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined. This creamy, slightly sweet dressing is what brings all the salad ingredients into a harmonious blend.
Step 3: Combine and Toss
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss gently. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to keep the chunks of chicken and the crunchy pecans intact for that delightful texture contrast that makes this Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe so special.
Step 4: Adjust Seasoning
Give your salad a quick taste and add a bit more salt or pepper if you feel it needs it. Balancing the seasoning here elevates the dish from good to unforgettable.
Step 5: Chill to Meld Flavors
Place the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step allows the ingredients to marry and the flavors to deepen, ensuring that each mouthful is delicious and cohesive.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the salad chilled on its own, over a bed of fresh greens, or as a filling for sandwiches, wraps, or alongside your favorite crackers. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for an extra touch of color and freshness.
How to Serve Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or green onions not only add a beautiful pop of color but also brighten the flavors of the salad. They complement the sweetness of cranberries and add a lovely, fresh aroma to the dish.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with crisp, leafy greens, crusty bread, or simple crackers. Light, refreshing sides like cucumber slices or a tangy coleslaw will round out your meal perfectly without overshadowing the delicate balance of the salad.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this salad in mini bell peppers or hollowed-out tomatoes for an elegant appetizer. You can also use it as a filling for pita pockets or stuff it inside baked avocados for a unique twist that’s sure to impress your guests. The Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe is incredibly versatile when it comes to presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover cranberry pecan chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days. Make sure to give it a gentle stir before serving again as the dressing might settle slightly.
Freezing
Since this salad contains mayonnaise and crunchy ingredients, it is best not to freeze it as the texture and flavor can be compromised. Preparing fresh batches is recommended to maintain the salad’s delightful qualities.
Reheating
This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating is generally not advised. If you want a warm option, consider heating the chicken separately and mixing it with fresh dressing and add-ins afterward.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds delicious flavor and saves time without compromising the quality of your Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise in this salad?
Greek yogurt is a wonderful lighter alternative that still provides creaminess and tanginess to the dressing, making your salad a bit healthier but just as tasty.
How do I keep the pecans crunchy?
To maintain their crunch, add the pecans right before serving or store them separately and mix them in fresh. Toasting the pecans beforehand can also enhance their flavor and sturdiness.
Can I make this salad vegan?
For a vegan version, replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu, and swap the mayonnaise for a plant-based alternative. Adjust the honey for maple syrup or agave to keep it vegan-friendly.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Definitely. This Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe holds up well in the fridge for a couple of days and can make for an excellent, grab-and-go lunch option throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about this Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe. It is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug through food—comforting, balanced, and utterly delicious. Whether you are packing it for lunch, bringing it to a gathering, or enjoying a quick dinner, this salad delivers every single time. I encourage you to give it a whirl and see how quickly it becomes a staple in your recipe box!
Print
Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A refreshing and easy-to-make Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad featuring tender chicken, sweet dried cranberries, crunchy pecans, and a creamy honey-Dijon dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or gathering, this salad can be enjoyed on its own, in sandwiches, or with crackers.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
Dressing Ingredients
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, celery, and red onion to form the base of the salad.
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until the dressing is smooth and well blended.
- Mix Salad and Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the chicken mixture and toss gently to evenly coat all the ingredients with the creamy dressing.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the salad and add more salt and pepper if necessary to balance the flavors perfectly.
- Chill the Salad: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and improve the texture before serving.
- Serve: Serve the chicken salad chilled, either on a bed of greens, as a sandwich or wrap filling, or with crackers. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions, if desired, for added color and freshness.
Notes
- Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a healthier, lighter option.
- For extra crunch, toast the pecans lightly before adding.
- Chicken can be roasted, grilled, or poached according to preference before shredding.
- Great served chilled, making it ideal for meal prep or picnics.
- Adjust honey amount to taste for more or less sweetness.
