This colorful chicken salad mixes tender chicken, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans. It’s a tasty feast for your eyes and your taste buds!
I love how simple it is to whip up. Just toss everything together, and you have a delightful meal. Perfect for lunch or a picnic with friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: I like using rotisserie chicken for quick prep, but leftover chicken works great, too. If you’re vegetarian, try using chickpeas or cooked tofu for a hearty alternative.
Dried Cranberries: These bring sweetness to the salad. If you’re looking for a substitute, raisins or dried cherries offer a similar touch, but be aware that they alter the flavor slightly.
Pecans: Chopped pecans provide a nice crunch. If you’re nut-free, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds are excellent replacements that add texture without the nuts!
Mayonnaise: Classic mayo keeps the salad creamy, but Greek yogurt can be a lighter alternative. You could also make a vegan version using avocado or a store-bought vegan mayo.
How to Make Sure Your Chicken Salad Isn’t Dry?
The key to a moist chicken salad lies in the right balance of ingredients. Mayonnaise is essential, but make sure you don’t skimp on it. It adds creaminess and keeps the salad from feeling dry.
- Use enough mayo to coat all ingredients well—about 1/2 cup should be perfect for this recipe.
- Add lemon juice to brighten flavors and keep the salad fresh; this helps balance richness from the mayo.
- Letting the salad chill in the fridge for a bit lets the flavors mingle and adds moisture. Try refrigerating for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Easy Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped or shredded
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Lettuce leaves or croissants, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This chicken salad recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. That makes it a quick and easy meal for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, and diced celery. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything evenly, ensuring a delightful bite with each scoop!
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard until you have a smooth, creamy dressing. This will give your salad a tangy and flavorful kick.
3. Mix It All Together:
Pour the creamy dressing over the chicken mixture. Carefully stir everything together until all the ingredients are well coated in the dressing—this is where the magic happens!
4. Season to Taste:
Sprinkle in salt and black pepper to suit your taste. Remember, you can always add more, so start light and adjust as needed to make it just right for you!
5. Chill It Out:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step helps the flavors meld together beautifully, making each bite more delicious.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, it’s time to serve! You can enjoy this salad on a bed of crisp lettuce, as a filling in croissants, or with your favorite bread. Enjoy your tasty and refreshing chicken salad!
FAQ for Easy Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad
Can I Use Leftover or Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Using leftover chicken or pre-cooked rotisserie chicken makes this salad super quick to prepare. Just chop or shred the chicken and you’re ready to go!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep it sealed to maintain freshness!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, this salad is perfect for making ahead! You can prepare it a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving to refresh the texture!
What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise?
If you prefer a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a great substitute for mayonnaise. You can also use avocado for a creamy texture, or a vegan mayo for a plant-based version.
