If you are searching for a delightful dish that’s refreshing, packed with flavor, and offers a wonderful balance of textures, the Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe will quickly become one of your all-time favorites. This colorful salad combines tender chicken, sweet dried cranberries, crunchy pecans, and crisp vegetables all brought together by a creamy, tangy dressing that will have you coming back for seconds. It’s perfect for easy lunches, picnics, or holiday gatherings, and its simple ingredients come together effortlessly to deliver a mouthwatering experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The best part about this recipe is how straightforward and uncomplicated the ingredients are. Each element plays an essential role, whether it’s the juicy chicken providing hearty protein, the dried cranberries adding a burst of sweetness, or the pecans introducing a satisfying crunch and toasty flavor.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped: Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that saves time without sacrificing taste.
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries: These bring bright, tart-sweet notes that elevate every bite.
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans: Toast pecans lightly for extra depth and crunchiness.
- 1/2 cup finely chopped celery: Adds a fresh, crisp texture to complement the creamy dressing.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion: Provides a subtle bite and lovely hint of color.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: The creamy base that binds all ingredients beautifully together.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Gives the dressing just the right amount of tang and complexity.
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar: Adds a touch of acidity to balance the creaminess.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the combined flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: A little kick to finish the seasoning perfectly.
How to Make Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Mix-Ins
Begin by placing your shredded or chopped cooked chicken into a large mixing bowl. Then, add the dried cranberries, chopped pecans, finely chopped celery, and red onion. This combination ensures every forkful has a mix of tender, sweet, nutty, and crunchy elements that make this salad truly special.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This dressing is the secret glue that brings the salad together with its deliciously tangy and rich flavor.
Step 3: Combine and Chill
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and gently stir until everything is thoroughly coated. Once combined, cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. Letting it chill allows the flavors to meld wonderfully and the salad to firm up just enough for easy serving.
How to Serve Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can really brighten the appearance and taste of this salad. Try adding a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or a few extra whole pecans on top for an elegant touch. A twist of lemon zest can also add a fresh aroma and pop of color.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with crisp green salads, crusty bread, or crunchy crackers. It’s also fabulous alongside a bowl of soup or as part of a colorful charcuterie board during a casual get-together or special occasion.
Creative Ways to Present
Instead of serving it as a classic salad, try spooning the mixture into butter lettuce leaves for delightful wraps or stuffing it into ripe avocado halves for an attractive, gluten-free option. You can also serve it on toasted croissants or whole grain sandwich bread for a filling and tasty meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cranberry pecan chicken salad keeps well in an airtight container stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to give it a gentle stir before serving to redistribute the dressing and freshen the texture.
Freezing
Because of the mayonnaise and fresh produce in the salad, freezing is not recommended as it can affect the texture and taste negatively. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of making.
Reheating
This salad is meant to be served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is unnecessary. Simply remove it from the fridge a few minutes before serving to take the chill off for the best flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! You can cook and shred or chop chicken breast for this recipe. Just be sure it’s fully cooked and cooled before mixing to maintain the salad’s fresh flavor and texture.
What can I add for extra sweetness?
Chopped apples or grapes make wonderful additions if you want a bit more natural sweetness and crunch. These also add some extra nutrition and vibrant color to the salad.
How can I make this recipe lighter?
To lighten the salad, substitute half of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt. This keeps the creaminess while reducing fat and adding some protein.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it naturally is. Just make sure any crackers or bread you serve alongside are gluten-free if you’re catering to that need.
Can this salad be made ahead for a party?
Definitely! Prepare it up to a day in advance and keep it refrigerated until serving time. Chilling enhances the flavor, making it a perfect make-ahead dish.
Final Thoughts
There really is nothing quite like the perfect balance of flavors and textures you find in this Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe. It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and makes for a delicious, satisfying meal or snack any time of year. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how quickly it becomes one of your go-to favorites, just like it did for me!
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Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes (plus optional chilling time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is a delicious and easy-to-make no-cook recipe perfect for a light lunch or festive gathering. Featuring a delightful blend of shredded chicken, tart dried cranberries, crunchy pecans, and fresh vegetables, all tossed in a creamy Dijon-mustard mayo dressing, this salad is both flavorful and satisfying. Serve chilled on croissants, sandwich bread, lettuce wraps, or with crackers.
Ingredients
Chicken Salad
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the shredded or chopped cooked chicken, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, finely chopped celery, and red onion until evenly distributed.
- Prepare Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Toss Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the chicken mixture and gently stir to coat all ingredients evenly with the dressing.
- Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the salad to chill thoroughly before serving.
- Serve: Enjoy the salad chilled, either on croissants, sandwich bread, wrapped in lettuce leaves, or accompanied by crackers for a versatile and tasty meal or snack.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken is ideal for quick preparation and adds great flavor.
- Add chopped apples or grapes for extra sweetness and a crunchy texture.
- For a lighter version, substitute part of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt.
