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Irresistible Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

cranberry pecan chicken salad - featured image

A delightful chicken salad with tangy cranberries, crunchy pecans, and creamy dressing, perfect for quick lunches, light dinners, or party appetizers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/2 cup pecans, chopped and toasted
  • 1/2 cup celery, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken: Cook and 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 mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, 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.

Notes

Chill the salad before serving to enhance the flavors. Toasting the pecans adds depth to the salad. Adjust the dressing with lemon juice or vinegar if it tastes too rich.

Nutrition

Keywords: cranberry pecan chicken salad, chicken salad recipe, easy chicken salad, quick lunch recipe, healthy salad, gluten-free salad