This Easy Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is a tasty mix of juicy chicken, crunchy pecans, and sweet dried cranberries. Perfect for a light lunch or a picnic treat!
Mixing these flavors is a breeze, and I love how the cranberries add a touch of sweetness. Pair it with some fresh bread, and you’ll have a yummy meal that’s super quick to make!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Cooked chicken breast is ideal here. You can also use rotisserie chicken for convenience or leftover chicken. For a vegetarian option, try chickpeas or tofu for a different texture.
Dried Cranberries: These add a lovely sweetness! If you don’t have cranberries, raisins or chopped apples can work as tasty substitutes. Dried cherries are also a flavorful alternative.
Pecans: Chopped pecans give a crunchy texture. Walnuts or almonds can be swapped in if you prefer another nut or need a nut-free option, sunflower seeds work well too.
Mayonnaise: This gives creaminess, but you can replace it with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. Vegan mayo is a great substitute if you follow a plant-based diet.
Celery: It offers crunch and flavor. You can use diced apples for a sweeter crunch or shredded carrots if you prefer a different taste.
What’s the Best Way to Make a Creamy Chicken Salad?
To achieve the perfect creamy consistency in your chicken salad, the method of mixing is key. Make sure you mix gently so that the chicken remains tender and doesn’t get mushy.
- Start by combining the chicken, cranberries, pecans, and celery in a large bowl. This helps distribute the ingredients evenly.
- In a smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, and mustard. This ensures a smooth sauce that coats everything nicely.
- Once mixed, pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and use a spatula to fold in the dressing gently.
- Letting the salad chill for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to blend beautifully!
Easy Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lettuce leaves, croissants, or bread for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes in the refrigerator to chill and let the flavors meld together. Perfect for a quick lunch or as a scrumptious side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked chicken, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, and finely chopped celery. Give it a good mix to distribute everything evenly.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard (if you’re using it), salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Mix it All Together:
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
4. Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
Take a moment to taste your salad! If you think it needs a little more flavor, feel free to add extra salt and pepper.
5. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors blend beautifully.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to eat, take the chicken salad out of the fridge. Serve it on a bed of fresh lettuce, or enjoy it in croissants or on your favorite bread. Enjoy every delightful bite!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Leftover grilled, roasted, or even rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this salad. Just make sure it’s cooled and shredded or diced for the best texture.
How Long Can I Store This Chicken Salad?
You can store the chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving, as the ingredients may settle or separate over time.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, this salad is great for making ahead! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just be sure to stir it well before serving to help redistribute the flavors.
What Are Some Good Substitutions?
If you don’t have pecans, try using walnuts or almonds for crunch. For a healthier option, Greek yogurt can substitute mayonnaise, and for a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with chickpeas!
