This Easy Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is a tasty mix of shredded chicken, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans. It’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a salad that feels like a treat? I like to serve it on a bed of greens or in a sandwich. It’s so simple and delicious—really a win-win! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is a lifesaver for this recipe! If you don’t have it, leftover chicken or poached chicken works well too.
Mayonnaise: This is key for creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt wholly or in part, which adds a nice tang.
Dried Cranberries: They provide sweetness. If you’re not a fan, consider using raisins or chopped apples for a similar texture and sweetness.
Pecans: Crunch is important! If pecans aren’t available, walnuts or almonds can substitute nicely.
Celsery and Green Onions: These add crunch and fresh flavor. You can swap celery for diced bell peppers or omit them entirely if you prefer.
How Do You Ensure Great Flavor in Your Chicken Salad?
Getting the flavors just right in chicken salad is all about balance. Start by making the dressing in a separate bowl. Whisk it well to incorporate the ingredients smoothly—this helps in evenly coating the chicken when you mix it all together.
- Make sure to taste your dressing before adding it to the chicken — if it’s too tangy, add a pinch of sugar or more mayo.
- Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together for a more delicious result.
- Don’t hesitate to adjust seasoning. A little more salt or lemon juice can make a big difference!
Easy Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (optional, for creaminess and tang)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful chicken salad requires about 15 minutes of prep time plus at least 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. The short wait time is worth it as the flavors blend and develop, making each bite incredibly satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Main Ingredients:
Start by taking a large mixing bowl and adding the shredded or chopped cooked chicken, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, finely chopped celery, and sliced green onions. Give it a good stir to mix everything together.
2. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (if you’re using it), lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until everything is smooth and well combined. This dressing will bring all the flavors together.
3. Mix the Chicken and Dressing:
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture in the larger bowl. Gently stir everything together until the chicken and other ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. Careful not to mash the ingredients!
4. Taste and Adjust:
Take a moment to taste your salad. If it needs more flavor, feel free to adjust the seasoning with a bit more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as you like.
5. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the taste.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, it’s time to dig in! Serve your Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad chilled on a bed of lettuce, in a croissant, or with crackers. Enjoy your creamy, crunchy, and slightly sweet chicken salad that’s sure to impress!
FAQ for Easy Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad
Can I Use Canned Chicken Instead of Cooked Chicken?
Absolutely! Canned chicken is a convenient substitute. Just drain and rinse it before adding to the salad. You may want to adjust the seasoning a bit since canned chicken can be a little saltier than freshly cooked chicken.
How Long Will the Chicken Salad Last in the Refrigerator?
This chicken salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep it chilled and consume it within that timeframe for the best quality and taste!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can make this salad up to a day in advance. It actually tastes better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours or overnight as the flavors fully blend. Just give it a good stir before serving.
What Can I Substitute for Pecans?
If you’re allergic to nuts or simply don’t have pecans on hand, walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds can be great alternatives. They will provide a similar crunch to the salad!
