This Easy Pecan Chicken Salad is a delightful mix of juicy chicken, crunchy pecans, and fresh greens. It’s creamy, crunchy, and oh-so-satisfying for lunch or a light dinner!
I love how quick it is to make. Just toss everything together, and you’ve got a tasty meal that even my picky friends enjoy. Perfect with a slice of bread or on its own! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Use cooked chicken, shredded or chopped. Rotisserie chicken is great for ease. If you have leftover grilled or baked chicken, that works too!
Pecans: They add crunch and flavor. If you’re nut-free, try sunflower seeds or chopped pumpkin seeds as a substitute for that nice crunch without the allergens.
Celery: This brings a refreshing crunch. If you don’t have celery, chopped bell peppers or cucumber would be a tasty alternative.
Onion: For sharpness, I suggest red onion for its milder flavor. If you find raw onion too strong, swap it for green onion or shallots.
Mayonnaise: This is the creamy base. If you want a lighter option, Greek yogurt works wonderfully, or you can mix half mayo, half yogurt!
How Can You Ensure Your Chicken Salad is Flavorful and Well-Mixed?
The key to a good chicken salad is making sure each bite is full of flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with well-seasoned chicken. If you’re using plain chicken, add extra salt and pepper.
- Be light-handed with the dressing initially. You can always add more if needed but it’s hard to fix an overly saucy salad.
- Mix gently, so you don’t break down the chicken pieces too much—you’re aiming for a nice texture.
- Let it chill! Giving it about 30 minutes in the fridge allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Easy Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lettuce leaves (for serving)
- Optional: sliced tomato and whole grain crackers or bread
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, in just 40 minutes, you’ll have a delicious chicken salad ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, add your shredded chicken, chopped pecans, finely chopped celery, and onion. Stir them together until they’re mixed well.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard (if you’re using it), lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Ensure everything is nicely blended to create a smooth dressing.
3. Combine Salad and Dressing:
Pour the dressing over your chicken mixture in the large bowl. Gently stir everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
4. Taste and Adjust:
Take a quick taste of your salad. If you think it needs a little extra seasoning, feel free to add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to match your taste.
5. Serve on Lettuce:
When you’re ready to serve, place generous spoonfuls of the chicken salad on fresh lettuce leaves. If you’d like, add slices of tomato on top and enjoy with crackers or bread on the side!
6. Chill for Best Flavor:
For the best taste, cover your salad and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows all the flavors to blend beautifully!
And there you have it—your easy pecan chicken salad is ready to be enjoyed! Perfect for a light meal or a picnic treat. Enjoy! 🍽️
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Using leftover rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds delicious flavor to your salad. Just shred or chop it, and you’re good to go!
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. Make sure to keep it well-sealed to maintain freshness!
Can I Substitute Greek Yogurt for Mayonnaise?
Yes, Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute if you want a lighter option! It will give the salad a nice tangy flavor. You can mix it with a bit of mustard for extra creaminess and taste.
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor or Texture?
Try adding grapes or dried cranberries for a sweet touch, or diced apples for crunch. A sprinkle of fresh herbs, like dill or parsley, can also enhance the flavor profile!
