A refreshing and flavorful twist on traditional chicken salad, this cranberry pecan chicken salad is the perfect blend of savory and sweet. The tender chicken breast combined with crunchy pecans, sweet dried cranberries, and fresh vegetables creates a delicious balance of textures and tastes. Tossed in a creamy dressing with a hint of honey and lemon juice, this salad is ideal for a light lunch, a picnic, or a sandwich filling. Whether served on croissants, fluffy rolls, or on its own, this dish is sure to become a favorite.

The addition of toasted pecans enhances the nutty flavor, providing a delightful crunch that pairs perfectly with the chicken. The freshness of the celery and green onions adds a burst of color and flavor to the dish, while the creamy dressing ties everything together. This salad is as versatile as it is delicious, and its simple ingredients come together in no time, making it an excellent choice for busy days when you want something quick but satisfying.

With its balance of sweet and savory elements, this cranberry pecan chicken salad will quickly become a go-to dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking for a light meal, this recipe is bound to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Balanced Flavors

The combination of sweet cranberries, savory chicken, and crunchy pecans creates a well-rounded flavor profile that will please all palates.

2. Versatile Serving Options

This salad can be served on a variety of bases like croissants, fluffy rolls, or on a bed of greens, making it perfect for different occasions.

3. Quick and Easy to Make

With simple ingredients and minimal preparation, this recipe is quick to make, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal in under 30 minutes.

4. Packed with Nutrients

The chicken provides a lean protein, while the cranberries and pecans offer antioxidants, healthy fats, and fiber.

5. Great for Meal Prep

It stores well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prepping for the week ahead.

Ingredients

Cooked boneless, skinless chicken breast
Dried cranberries, roughly chopped
Pecans, chopped
Celery, diced
Green onion, chopped
Mayonnaise
Lemon juice
Honey
Salt
Garlic powder
Black pepper

Variations

Add More Fruits: You can add apples or grapes for an extra burst of sweetness.
Use Greek Yogurt: For a lighter option, swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a creamy and tangy twist.
Swap Pecans for Walnuts: If you prefer, you can use walnuts instead of pecans for a different nutty flavor.
Add Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can enhance the flavor and add a pop of color.
Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to spice things up.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1:

Chop the chicken breast, pecans, cranberries, celery, and green onions into small, bite-sized pieces.

Step 2:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped chicken, pecans, cranberries, celery, and green onions. Mix everything together thoroughly.

Step 3:

In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, honey, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper until the dressing is well combined.

Step 4:

Pour the dressing mixture over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Stir gently to coat all ingredients evenly with the dressing.

Step 5:

Serve the salad as-is, or for extra flair, scoop it into croissants, rolls, or serve it on a bed of leafy greens.

Optional: Toast the Pecans

To toast the pecans, heat a pan over medium heat. Spray the pan with cooking oil and add the pecans. Stir frequently for 3-4 minutes until they are lightly toasted. Remove them from the pan, let them cool, and then chop them before adding to the salad.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Chill Before Serving: Let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Adjust Dressing Consistency: If the dressing is too thick, add a small amount of water or additional lemon juice to thin it out.
Use Rotisserie Chicken: For convenience, you can use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own chicken breast.
Taste Before Serving: Adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or honey to suit your personal taste.
Chop Ingredients Uniformly: Make sure to chop the chicken and vegetables into uniform pieces to ensure a balanced bite every time.

How to Serve

This cranberry pecan chicken salad can be served in various ways:

On a Sandwich: Scoop the salad onto croissants, sandwich rolls, or whole-grain bread for a delicious lunch.
As a Salad: Serve it over a bed of mixed greens for a light and refreshing meal.
In Wraps: For a quick and easy meal, roll the salad up in a wrap with lettuce and tomatoes.
With Crackers: Serve it alongside crackers for a fun and easy appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cranberry pecan chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad can become slightly softer the longer it sits, but the flavor will continue to develop.

Freezing

While this chicken salad is best served fresh, you can freeze it if needed. To freeze, place the salad in an airtight container and store it in the freezer for up to one month. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reheating

Reheat any leftover chicken salad gently by letting it come to room temperature. Do not microwave as it may affect the texture of the ingredients, especially the nuts.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad can be made a day ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

2. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Fresh cranberries are too tart for this recipe, so it’s best to use dried cranberries to balance out the flavors.

3. Is there a dairy-free option for the dressing?

Yes, you can replace the mayonnaise with a dairy-free alternative such as avocado or vegan mayo.

4. Can I add more vegetables?

Certainly! You can include ingredients like red bell peppers, carrots, or even cucumber to add more crunch and freshness.

5. How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce to add some heat.

6. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?

Yes, chicken thighs work well in this recipe, providing a slightly richer flavor.

7. Can I substitute honey with another sweetener?

Yes, you can use maple syrup, agave nectar, or even a small amount of sugar if preferred.

8. How long will this salad last in the fridge?

It will stay fresh for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container.

9. Can I serve this salad warm?

Although it’s best served chilled, you can enjoy it slightly warmed if you prefer.

10. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as you ensure that the mayonnaise you use is gluten-free and serve it on a gluten-free bread or wrap.

Conclusion

Cranberry pecan chicken salad is a perfect combination of sweet, savory, and crunchy elements. It’s a versatile dish that can be served in many ways, whether as a sandwich, wrap, or on its own. Quick to prepare and full of flavor, it’s a great choice for a healthy meal or snack. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe will become a staple in your meal rotation. Try it out, and enjoy a delicious and satisfying dish that everyone will love!