If you’re looking for a fresh and flavorful dish that combines a delightful mix of textures and tastes, this Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe is an absolute winner. With tender chicken, crunchy pecans, sweet dried cranberries, and a creamy honey-Dijon dressing, this salad offers a perfect balance of savory and sweet that’s perfect for lunch, a light dinner, or even a festive gathering. The best part? It’s as simple to make as it is delicious, making it one of those recipes you’ll want to keep in your go-to collection forever.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe lies in its simple, yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each item adds a unique element — from the juicy texture of the chicken to the sweet tang of cranberries, and the crunch of pecans to the refreshing bite of celery and onion. These essentials come together harmoniously to create a salad that’s bursting with color and flavor.
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped: This is the hearty base, providing satisfying protein and a tender texture.
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries: Adds a subtle sweetness and chewier texture that brightens the salad.
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped: For a lovely crunch and nutty depth that contrasts beautifully with the soft chicken.
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped: Offers a refreshing crispness that cuts through the creamy dressing.
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced: Delivers a mild sharpness and vibrant color.
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option): The creamy element that brings all the flavors together with richness.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Balances the tang and adds a gentle sweetness to the dressing.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Introduces subtle heat and complexity to the flavor profile.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the ingredients.
- Optional fresh parsley or green onions for garnish: These fresh herbs add a pop of color and a final layer of flavor.
How to Make Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Combine the main ingredients
Begin by placing your cooked chicken, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, celery, and red onion into a large mixing bowl. This creates the flavorful, textured base of your salad before adding the dressing. Mixing them first ensures every bite is packed with a balance of those lovely contrasting flavors.
Step 2: Whisk up the dressing
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, along with salt and pepper until you get a smooth and creamy dressing. This sweet and tangy combo is what gives the salad its distinctive flavor that keeps you coming back for more.
Step 3: Combine dressing with chicken mixture
Pour the dressing over the bowl containing your chicken and add-ins. Gently toss everything together so the dressing evenly coats all the ingredients. Taking care here ensures that each bite is balanced — creamy, crunchy, sweet, and savory all at once.
Step 4: Taste and adjust seasoning
Don’t be shy when tasting! Add more salt and pepper if you think it needs a little extra brightness or seasoning. This step lets you customize the salad so it perfectly suits your palate.
Step 5: Chill for flavor melding
Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This rest time lets the flavors blend and marry beautifully, making the salad even more delicious when it’s time to eat.
Step 6: Ready to serve
Serve your Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad chilled. It can shine on a bed of leafy greens, as a filling inside sandwiches or wraps, or simply paired with your favorite crackers. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley or green onions to add a burst of fresh flavor and a lovely presentation touch.
How to Serve Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley or green onions are perfect garnishes that add an extra pop of color and freshness. They complement the hearty, creamy salad by adding a mild herbal note that brightens every bite, making the dish look and taste even better.
Side Dishes
This chicken salad pairs wonderfully with crunchy baguette slices, pita chips, or toast points for a satisfying contrast of textures. You can also serve it alongside simple salad greens or fresh fruit slices to create a more balanced meal that’s light yet filling.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the salad in hollowed-out avocado halves or inside crisp lettuce cups for a low-carb option. It’s also delightful served in mini phyllo cups as an appetizer for parties, showcasing the salad’s attractive mix of colors and textures in bite-sized form.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 2 to 3 days and is perfect for quick lunches or snacks. The flavors actually develop more when it’s allowed to rest overnight.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this salad because the mayonnaise-based dressing and crunchy ingredients like pecans and celery can lose their texture and become soggy when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.
Reheating
This salad is designed to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary and may result in a loss of the wonderful texture and flavor contrasts. Simply take it out of the fridge a short while before serving to take the chill off if preferred.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that saves time and adds flavor. Just shred or chop it and you’re good to go.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
Greek yogurt is an excellent lighter alternative to mayonnaise. It adds creaminess with a bit of tang and makes the salad a bit healthier without sacrificing flavor.
Can I add other nuts besides pecans?
Yes! Walnuts or almonds work well too. Just toast them lightly to enhance their flavor and maintain that satisfying crunch.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely. This chicken salad keeps well in the fridge and is a convenient protein-packed option for busy weeknights or packed lunches.
How can I make this salad vegan?
Try swapping cooked chickpeas for the chicken, use vegan mayo, and omit honey or replace it with maple syrup for a delicious plant-based twist.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe enough — it’s one of those versatile dishes that always hits the spot. Whether you’re looking for an easy meal that’s packed with flavor or something special to impress guests, this salad delivers every time. Give it a try and enjoy the wonderful blend of textures and tastes that come together so effortlessly!
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
This Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is a delightful and refreshing combination of tender cooked chicken, sweet dried cranberries, crunchy pecans, and crisp vegetables tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or picnic, this versatile salad can be served chilled on greens, sandwiches, wraps, or with crackers, making it a crowd-pleaser with a balance of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors.
Ingredients
Chicken Salad
- 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
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish
- Fresh parsley or green onions
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, celery, and red onion to create the base of the salad.
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Mix Salad and Dressing: Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and gently toss to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Season to Taste: Taste the salad and add more salt and pepper if needed to enhance the flavor balance.
- Chill: Refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together, boosting the overall taste and texture.
- Serve: Serve the salad chilled on a bed of greens, sandwiched between bread, wrapped in a tortilla, or alongside crackers. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions if desired for a fresh, vibrant touch.
Notes
- For a lighter variation, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Chilling the salad enhances flavor melding but can be served immediately if needed.
- Toast the pecans lightly for extra crunch and flavor.
- This salad can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Adjust sweetness by modifying honey amount according to your preference.
