Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that makes for a perfect meal any time of the day. This easy-to-make salad combines tender chicken, crunchy pecans, and sweet dried cranberries, all tossed in a creamy dressing.
It’s a versatile dish that can be served in various ways, making it ideal for lunch, dinner, or even a quick snack. Whether you're preparing a meal for yourself or entertaining guests, this chicken salad is sure to please.
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Why This Recipe Works
This recipe is a winner because it balances flavors and textures perfectly. The tender, juicy chicken provides a hearty base, while the pecans add a satisfying crunch. The dried cranberries bring a touch of sweetness and a bit of chewiness, which contrasts beautifully with the crisp celery. The creamy mayonnaise ties everything together, adding richness without overpowering the other ingredients. Each bite offers a delightful mix of savory, sweet, and crunchy elements that keep you coming back for more.
Additionally, this Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is incredibly versatile and easy to prepare. You can use leftover chicken, making it a great way to reduce food waste. The ingredients are simple and likely already in your pantry, and the preparation requires minimal time and effort. It’s also easily customizable; you can add or substitute ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. This salad is perfect for meal prep, as it stores well in the refrigerator and can be enjoyed over several days. Whether served on a bed of greens, in a sandwich, or with crackers, this salad is always a hit.
Ingredients
Cooked Chicken: Provides protein and a hearty base for the salad. You can use rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken, or leftover roasted chicken.
Dried Cranberries: Adds a sweet and tart flavor. Raisins or dried cherries can be used as substitutes.
Pecans: Adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor. Walnuts or almonds can be used instead.
Mayonnaise: Binds the ingredients together and adds creaminess. Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter option.
Celery: Adds a crisp texture and fresh flavor. Cucumber or bell peppers can be used as substitutes.
Tips
- Shred or dice the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces for easier mixing and eating.
- Toast the pecans lightly to enhance their flavor before adding them to the salad.
- Mix the mayonnaise with a bit of mustard or lemon juice for extra tanginess.
- Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning just before serving.
How to Serve
Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. It's perfect for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or even as a dish for a potluck or picnic. The sweet and savory flavors, along with the crunchy texture, make it a delightful meal on its own or as part of a larger spread.
- Serve this salad on a bed of fresh lettuce for a light and refreshing meal.
- For a more filling option, spoon it onto whole-grain bread or a croissant for a delicious sandwich.
- Another great idea is to stuff the chicken salad into a pita pocket or wrap it in a tortilla for an easy and portable lunch.
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Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded or diced
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup chopped pecans
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 stalks celery diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, and diced celery.
- Add the mayonnaise and mix until all the ingredients are well coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Serve chilled on lettuce, in sandwiches, or as desired.
Nutrition
Notes
• Toast the pecans lightly to enhance their flavor before adding them to the salad.
• Mix the mayonnaise with a bit of mustard or lemon juice for extra tanginess.
• Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
• Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning just before serving.