Description
This Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for a light lunch or appetizer. Combining tender cooked chicken with sweet dried cranberries, crunchy pecans, and fresh vegetables, all coated in a creamy honey-Dijon dressing, it offers a delightful balance of textures and tastes. Easily prepared in just 15 minutes and served chilled, it’s versatile enough for sandwiches, wraps, or as a refreshing salad on its own.
Ingredients
Scale
Salad Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
Dressing Ingredients
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish
- Fresh parsley or green onions
Instructions
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, celery, and red onion until evenly distributed.
- Prepare Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk the mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
- Toss Salad with Dressing: Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and gently toss to coat all ingredients evenly, ensuring each bite is flavorful.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the salad and add additional salt and pepper if necessary to suit your preference.
- Chill: Refrigerate the combined salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and develop fully.
- Serve: Serve the chilled chicken salad on a bed of greens, in sandwiches, wraps, or paired with crackers. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions if desired for added color and flavor.
Notes
- Using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise reduces fat and calories for a healthier option.
- Allowing the salad to chill improves the flavor integration and texture.
- For a crunchier texture, lightly toast the pecans before adding.
- This salad can be prepared a day in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator.
