Irresistible Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe for Easy Meals

The combination of tender chicken, tangy cranberries, and crunchy pecans is something magical. This irresistible cranberry pecan chicken salad is my ultimate go-to recipe for quick lunches, light dinners, or even as a party appetizer. Every bite is a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors that will make you crave more. Trust me, this is not your average chicken salad—it’s about to become your favorite! Whether you’re hosting a gathering, meal-prepping for the week, or just looking for something delicious and easy, this recipe delivers every time.

I first stumbled upon this recipe when I wanted a twist on a classic chicken salad. After a little experimenting, I found the perfect combination of ingredients that truly makes this dish shine. It’s wholesome, satisfying, and so versatile—you can enjoy it on sandwiches, with crackers, or even straight from the bowl. And the best part? It’s ridiculously simple to make!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: This cranberry pecan chicken salad comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
• No Fancy Ingredients: You probably already have most of the ingredients in your kitchen.
• Versatile: Serve it as a sandwich filling, wrap, salad topper, or enjoy it on its own.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s for a family gathering or a quick lunch, everyone will be raving about the flavors.
• Unforgettable Flavor Combo: The tangy cranberries, crunchy pecans, and creamy dressing create a unique and satisfying taste.

This recipe stands out because of the balance of textures and flavors. It’s not just another chicken salad—it’s packed with personality. The sweet-tart cranberries and nutty pecans add depth to the creamy chicken mixture, while a hint of Dijon mustard elevates the overall profile. It’s hearty enough for a meal yet light enough to enjoy anytime.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This cranberry pecan chicken salad uses simple, wholesome ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Cooked chicken, shredded: Rotisserie chicken works great here for convenience, but you can also poach or grill your own.
• Dried cranberries: These add a tangy-sweet pop to every bite. Choose unsweetened if you prefer less sugar.
• Pecans, chopped: For that nutty crunch. Toast them lightly for extra flavor.
• Celery, diced: Adds crispness and freshness to balance the richness.
• Red onion, finely chopped: Brings a subtle sharpness that ties everything together.
• Mayonnaise: The creamy base of the salad. Use full-fat for richness or light mayo for a lower-calorie option.
• Greek yogurt: Adds tang and cuts through the heaviness of the mayo. You can use plain yogurt or a dairy-free alternative.
• Dijon mustard: Just a touch for a zesty kick.
• Salt and pepper: To season and enhance the flavors.
• Fresh parsley: Optional, but it adds a nice herbaceous note.

Feel free to substitute or tweak the ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs. For example, swap pecans with walnuts or use dried cherries instead of cranberries.

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls: You’ll need a couple of bowls for combining and mixing the ingredients.
• Sharp knife: For chopping celery, onion, and pecans.
• Cutting board: A sturdy surface for all your chopping needs.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure precise ingredient measurements.
• Spatula or wooden spoon: For mixing everything together smoothly.

If you don’t have a sharp knife, a food processor can also be used to chop the pecans and onion. Cleanup is a breeze, too—no fancy tools required!

Preparation Method

1. Prepare the chicken: If you’re using fresh chicken, cook it first. Poached or grilled chicken works best, but rotisserie chicken saves time. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
2. Toast the pecans: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and toast the pecans for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Set aside to cool.
3. Chop the veggies: Dice the celery and red onion finely. If using parsley, chop it as well.
4. Mix the dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup Greek yogurt, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Combine all ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken, cranberries, toasted pecans, celery, and onion. Pour the dressing over the mixture and gently fold everything together until well coated.
6. Adjust seasoning: Taste and add more salt, pepper, or Dijon mustard if desired.
7. Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
8. Serve: Spoon the chicken salad onto bread, wraps, crackers, or leafy greens. Garnish with parsley for an extra fresh touch.

Tip: Don’t skip the chilling step—it really enhances the flavor. If the salad feels too thick, stir in a tablespoon of milk or yogurt to loosen it up.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Shred chicken efficiently: Use two forks or a hand mixer to shred cooked chicken quickly and evenly.
• Toast nuts for better flavor: Toasting pecans enhances their natural nuttiness and adds depth to the salad.
• Balance the dressing: If the salad tastes too rich, add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to brighten it up.
• Chill before serving: Letting the salad rest in the fridge allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Don’t overmix: Fold the ingredients gently to keep the chicken tender and the pecans crunchy.

Variations & Adaptations

• Low-carb option: Skip the cranberries and serve the salad on lettuce leaves or cucumber slices.
• Vegetarian version: Substitute chicken with chickpeas or cooked tofu cubes.
• Seasonal twist: Add diced apples or fresh grapes for a fall-inspired variation.
• Allergy-friendly: Use sunflower seeds instead of pecans for a nut-free alternative.
• Spicy kick: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for added heat.

One of my favorite variations is swapping out the cranberries for dried apricots—it adds a unique sweetness that pairs beautifully with the pecans.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This cranberry pecan chicken salad is incredibly versatile in how you serve it:

• Serving temperature: Serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.
• Presentation ideas: Spoon it onto croissants or sandwich bread, serve in lettuce cups, or pile it into a bowl surrounded by crackers.
• Storage instructions: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating tips: This salad is meant to be enjoyed cold, so there’s no reheating needed.
• Flavor development: The flavors deepen as it sits—it’s even better the next day!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

• Estimated nutritional values: Each serving contains approximately 250-300 calories, 20g protein, 15g fats, and 10g carbohydrates.
• Key health benefits: High in protein from chicken, healthy fats from pecans, and antioxidants from cranberries.
• Dietary considerations: This recipe is naturally gluten-free and can be adapted for low-carb diets.
• Potential allergens: Contains nuts and dairy. Substitute with allergen-free options as needed.

From a wellness standpoint, this salad is an excellent choice for a balanced meal that keeps you full and energized throughout the day.

Conclusion

This irresistible cranberry pecan chicken salad is the perfect recipe to add to your rotation. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, meal prepping, or just looking for a quick and satisfying lunch, it’s a recipe that you’ll come back to time and time again.

Personally, I love how the sweet cranberries and crunchy pecans elevate the creamy chicken mixture—it’s like a little party for your taste buds! I hope you give this recipe a try and customize it to make it your own.

If you enjoyed this recipe, please leave a comment below letting me know how it turned out! Don’t forget to share this with friends and family who love quick, delicious meals. Let’s keep spreading the joy of good food!

FAQs

Can I use canned chicken instead of fresh or rotisserie?

Yes, canned chicken works fine in this recipe. Just drain and shred it before mixing with the other ingredients.

Can I make this salad dairy-free?

Absolutely! Swap the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt or almond yogurt.

How do I toast pecans without burning them?

Use low to medium heat and stir frequently. Pecans toast quickly, so keep an eye on them.

Can I freeze this chicken salad?

It’s not recommended to freeze due to the mayo-based dressing, which can separate upon thawing.

What’s the best bread to serve this salad on?

Soft croissants, sourdough, or a hearty multigrain bread work beautifully with this chicken salad.

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