This Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is a delightful and refreshing twist on a classic favorite. It combines tender chicken with the sweetness of dried cranberries, the crunch of pecans, and a creamy, tangy dressing. Perfect for sandwiches, salads, or a light snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavorful and Textural: The combination of sweet cranberries, crunchy pecans, and tender chicken creates a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
Easy and Quick: Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or snack.
Versatile: Enjoy it in sandwiches, on crackers, or as a salad topping.
Make-Ahead Friendly: This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator.

Ingredients

Cooked Chicken: Provides a lean and protein-rich base.
Dried Cranberries: Adds sweetness and a chewy texture.
Pecans: Adds crunch and a nutty flavor.
Celery: Adds crispness and a mild flavor.
Green Onion: Adds a mild onion flavor.
Mayonnaise: Provides creaminess and binds the ingredients.
Lemon Juice: Adds tanginess and brightness.
Honey: Adds a touch of sweetness.
Salt: Enhances the flavors.
Garlic Powder: Adds a savory note.
Black Pepper: Adds a hint of spice.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

How to Make Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Chop the chicken, pecans, cranberries, celery, and green onions into small, bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Combine Chicken and Mix-Ins

In a large bowl, combine the chopped chicken, pecans, cranberries, celery, and green onions. Mix well.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a separate, smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, honey, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper.

Step 4: Combine Salad and Dressing

Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture. Use a spoon to mix until the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated.

Step 5: Serve

Scoop and enjoy! Serve on croissants, rolls, or by itself.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Toast the Pecans: Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor and texture. Toast them in a pan over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently.
Use Cooked Chicken: Rotisserie chicken, leftover chicken, or poached chicken breasts work well.
Adjust Sweetness: Adjust the amount of honey to your preference.
Chill Before Serving: Chilling the salad for a short time allows the flavors to meld.
Customize Ingredients: Feel free to add other mix-ins like grapes, apples, or walnuts.

How to Serve

Sandwiches: Serve on croissants, rolls, or bread.
Salad: Serve on a bed of lettuce or greens.
Crackers: Serve with crackers for an appetizer or snack.
Lettuce Wraps: Serve in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended as it will affect the texture of the mayonnaise and other ingredients.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of nut?

Yes, you can use walnuts, almonds, or cashews instead of pecans.

2. Can I use fresh cranberries?

Fresh cranberries are very tart and will need to be cooked with sugar before adding to the salad. Dried cranberries provide a sweeter and chewier texture.

3. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?

Yes, you can use Greek yogurt for a lighter option.

4. Can I add other vegetables?

Yes, you can add other vegetables like red onion, bell peppers, or cucumber.

Jaden Christner

Hey everyone! I'm Jaden, and welcome to YummyHere! Basically, I'm obsessed with food. Like, really obsessed. So, I figured, why not share all my yummy creations with the world? Hopefully, you'll find something here that makes you say "Yum!" (because that's the goal, right?). Let's get cooking!

Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe