This Easy Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is a perfect mix of tender chicken, crunchy pecans, and sweet-tart cranberries. It’s great for lunch or a light dinner!
Seriously, who wouldn’t want to enjoy a big bowl of this refreshing salad? I love piling it on toast or just digging in with a fork! It’s easy and oh-so-good! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or leftover chicken to save time. If you need a lighter option, consider using shredded tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
Dried Cranberries: These add sweetness and a chewy texture. You can swap them for raisins, chopped fresh apples, or cherries if cranberries aren’t available.
Pecans: They provide a delightful crunch. Walnuts are a great substitute, or you can use sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.
Mayonnaise: While I love classic mayo, you can use Greek yogurt instead for a healthier alternative. It adds creaminess without extra calories.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Salad Is Flavored Just Right?
Getting the dressing right is key! After mixing the mayonnaise, lemon juice, and seasonings, taste it. You want it to be zesty but not overpowering. If it’s too tangy, a pinch of sugar can balance it out.
- Make sure to chill the salad for at least 30 minutes; this helps the flavors meld.
- If you like a bit of crunch, add extra celery or some chopped apples just before serving.
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 pecans, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions or scallions, chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lettuce leaves or croissants, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and needs at least 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. So, you can have a delicious and refreshing chicken salad ready in just about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the chopped or shredded chicken, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, finely chopped celery, and green onions. Give it all a gentle mix to combine these lovely ingredients!
2. Make the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until it’s nice and smooth. This will be the dressing for your chicken salad!
3. Mix Everything Together
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture. Now, gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing. This is where the magic happens!
4. Taste and Adjust
Before you chill it, take a little taste. If you feel it needs more seasoning, go ahead and add more salt or pepper as needed. Adjust it to your liking!
5. Chill the Salad
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors mingle and makes the salad even more delicious!
6. Serve and Enjoy
When you’re ready to enjoy, serve the chicken salad chilled on a bed of lettuce, inside croissants, or on your favorite bread. Grab a fork and dig in—you deserve it!
Enjoy this easy, refreshing, and crunchy chicken salad that beautifully balances savory, tart, and nutty flavors!
FAQ for Easy Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad
Can I Use Canned Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, canned chicken is a convenient option! Just drain it well and break it apart in a bowl. Make sure to season it well with salt and pepper for good flavor.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Chicken Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving, and it should be fresh and delicious!
Can I Make This Chicken Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken salad a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve it. Letting it sit allows the flavors to develop even more!
What Variations Can I Try?
Feel free to mix it up! Add diced apples for extra crunch, swap the pecans for walnuts or almonds, or include some diced grapes for a little sweetness. Get creative with your favorite ingredients!
