Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is a delicious blend of tender chicken, sweet dried cranberries, crunchy pecans, and a creamy dressing. It’s perfect for sandwiches, wraps, croissants, lettuce cups, or served on its own for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 3/4 cup dried cranberries
- 3/4 cup pecans, chopped and lightly toasted
- 2 celery stalks, finely diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, honey, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
Add the chicken, dried cranberries, pecans, celery, red onion, and parsley to the bowl.
Step 3: Mix
Gently stir until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
Step 4: Chill
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Step 5: Serve
Serve chilled on:
- Croissants
- Sandwich bread
- Wraps
- Lettuce leaves
- Crackers
- Mixed greens
Tips for Success
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut.
- Toast the pecans for extra flavor and crunch.
- Add diced apples or grapes for additional sweetness.
- Adjust the honey to taste depending on the sweetness of your cranberries.
Storage
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Do not freeze, as the dressing may separate when thawed.
Variations
Healthy Version
Replace half or all of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt.
Southern Style
Add a pinch of paprika and serve on buttery croissants.
Extra Crunchy
Mix in sliced almonds or sunflower seeds.
Conclusion
This Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is creamy, sweet, savory, and packed with texture. Whether served for lunch, meal prep, or a special gathering, it’s an easy recipe that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
ENJOY!
