Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad – 15-Minute Recipe

Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is the ultimate dish when you’re looking for a flavorful, healthy, and easy meal. With its mix of juicy chicken, tangy Greek yogurt, sweet cranberries, and toasted pecans, it’s a versatile recipe that can be served as a main dish or a hearty side. Whether you’re preparing it for lunch, dinner, or a gathering, this salad is sure to impress everyone with its delightful combination of textures and flavors. Let’s dive into the recipe and see why it’s a favorite!

Why Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is a Must-Try

This Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is quick and simple to prepare, taking just 15 minutes from start to finish. The secret to its popularity lies in the balance of sweet and savory flavors, combined with a crunchy texture from the pecans. It’s a refreshing and wholesome meal that’s perfect for a light lunch or a satisfying dinner. Packed with protein, vitamins, and healthy fats, it’s both nutritious and delicious, making it an excellent option for any occasion.

Ingredients for Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering salad:

• Cooked Chicken (or Rotisserie Chicken): Provides the main protein base for the salad, keeping it hearty.
• Celery: Adds a refreshing crunch and mild flavor to the mix.
• Red Onion: Brings a subtle sharpness and color to the dish.
• Apple: Offers a sweet, crisp contrast to the savory elements.
• Dried Cranberries: Contribute a burst of sweetness and color.
• Greek Yogurt: Acts as a creamy and healthy base, adding protein and moisture.
• Light Mayonnaise: Adds richness and smoothness to the dressing.
• Dijon Mustard: A touch of tanginess that elevates the flavor.
• Fresh Parsley: Adds a fresh, herbal note and enhances the overall taste.
• Onion Powder: For a mild, savory undertone.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning the salad.
• Toasted Pecans (or Candied Pecans): Add crunch, nuttiness, and sweetness to finish off the salad.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

• Greek Yogurt Substitutes: If you prefer a different option, you can replace Greek yogurt with light sour cream or homemade mayonnaise for a richer texture.
• Nut Alternatives: If you have nut allergies or prefer a different flavor, try swapping pecans with walnuts or almonds for a similar crunchy texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by cutting the chicken into small bite-sized pieces. If you’re using leftover rotisserie chicken, simply shred it with your hands. Chop the celery, red onion, apple, and dried cranberries to uniform sizes.
2. Mix the Salad Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken, celery, red onion, apple, and cranberries. These fresh ingredients form the base of your salad.
3. Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt (or light sour cream), mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, parsley, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
4. Toss the Salad: Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
5. Chill and Serve: For best results, refrigerate the salad for at least one hour before serving. Just before serving, fold in the toasted pecans to maintain their crunch.
6. Enjoy: Serve your Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad on croissants, whole grain bread, or in a wrap for a satisfying meal.

Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

• Avoid Soggy Nuts: If you plan on storing leftovers, add the toasted pecans just before serving to keep them from becoming soggy.
• Adjust the Creaminess: You can adjust the amount of Greek yogurt and mayonnaise based on your preference for creaminess. For a lighter option, add more Greek yogurt and less mayonnaise.
• Storage Tips: Store any leftover Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Avoid freezing it, as the yogurt-based dressing may lose its texture upon thawing.

Pairing Ideas and Variations for Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is versatile enough to be paired with various side dishes or served in different ways. Here are a few suggestions:

• Side Dishes: Serve alongside a light soup, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad to create a complete meal.
• Sandwiches and Wraps: For a more substantial meal, pile the salad onto artisan bread, croissants, or roll it up in tortillas to create wraps.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the salad in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This makes for an easy lunch option during busy days or when hosting a gathering.

A Seasonal Favorite: Perfect for Fall

Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is an ideal dish for fall with its comforting flavors. The sweetness of cranberries combined with the nuttiness of pecans and the creaminess of the dressing evokes the warmth and coziness of autumn. It’s also a great way to use up leftover Thanksgiving turkey, making it a post-holiday favorite!

Conclusion

Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is a delightful and nutritious meal that blends the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re enjoying it as a hearty lunch, light dinner, or as a special side dish, it’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. With its combination of sweet cranberries, crunchy pecans, creamy dressing, and tender chicken, this recipe is a must-try for any occasion. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also incredibly versatile, allowing you to adjust ingredients to your liking or dietary preferences. Try it today and experience the deliciousness that makes this salad a favorite!

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More Relevant Recipes

• Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad: A delightful twist on the classic Caesar salad, this recipe combines pasta, grilled chicken, crisp romaine, and creamy Caesar dressing. It’s a simple, satisfying dish perfect for lunch or dinner, much like the Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad but with a different flavor profile.
• Creamy Beef and Bowtie Pasta: This hearty and creamy pasta dish features tender beef and bowtie pasta, enveloped in a rich sauce. The creamy texture and savory flavors make it a comforting meal, ideal for those who enjoy rich, flavorful dishes like the Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad.
• Air Fryer Chicken Caesar Cutlets: This recipe gives a crispy spin to the traditional chicken Caesar salad. The chicken cutlets, seasoned and air-fried, provide a crunchy texture, similar to the satisfying crunch of the pecans in the Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad. It’s a great option for a lighter, yet flavorful meal.

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