“The perfect blend of flavors and textures in this Pecan Cranberry Chicken Salad will impress any guest!”
This delightful salad features shredded chicken, crunchy pecans, and sweet dried cranberries, essentially a symphony for your taste buds. I often prepare this dish when I’m short on time but still want to impress my family with a nutritious meal. Its creamy dressing enhances the individual flavors, making each bite a burst of wholesome goodness. Enjoy this salad during a family picnic or a simple weeknight dinner for a satisfying experience.
Table of Contents
Why is Pecan Cranberry Chicken Salad Worth Trying?
This salad is a wonderful mix of flavors and nutrition, perfect for any occasion.
Pecan Cranberry Chicken Salad is an excellent choice for those seeking a healthy yet fulfilling meal. It combines lean protein from chicken with the benefits of nuts and cranberries, making it a wholesome option for lunch or dinner. Now is the perfect time to experiment with this salad, especially during warmer months when you crave something light. Quick and easy to prepare, it suits even the busiest of lifestyles. For a delightful side to this salad, try Winter Garden Salad which brings a fresh crunch and seasonal flair.
What Makes This Chicken Salad Unique?
This recipe stands out thanks to its unique ingredients and the perfect balance of flavors.
Flavor Balance
This Pecan Cranberry Chicken Salad shines due to its perfect harmony of flavors. The creamy dressing elevates the taste while incorporating sweet and savory elements. You won’t find this delightful combination in many traditional chicken salads.
Texture and Freshness
The crunch of pecans contrasts beautifully with the soft chicken and juicy cranberries, making each bite an enjoyable experience. The addition of celery and red onion adds vibrant freshness and a satisfying crunch, enhancing the overall texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
Feeling adventurous? Swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile. These changes can highlight different aspects of the dish while keeping it nutritious and delicious.
What Ingredients Do You Need for This Delicious Salad?
The ingredients are simple yet incredibly flavorful, making preparation easy.
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked chicken, shredded | 2 cups |
| Dried cranberries | 1/2 cup |
| Chopped pecans | 1/2 cup |
| Celery, diced | 1/2 cup |
| Red onion, diced | 1/4 cup |
| Mayonnaise | 1/2 cup |
| Dijon mustard | 1 tablespoon |
| Honey | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt and pepper | to taste |
The base of this salad consists of shredded chicken which offers lean protein, beneficial for muscle recovery and maintenance. Dried cranberries provide antioxidants while contributing a touch of sweetness, perfect for balancing flavors. Mayonnaise binds everything together, giving each bite creamy satisfaction. Remember, you can use Greek yogurt as a lower-calorie alternative for the dressing.
How Do You Make Pecan Cranberry Chicken Salad Step-by-Step?
Creating this chicken salad is straightforward and can be completed in just a few steps.
Step 1
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, diced celery, and diced red onion.
Step 2
In a separate small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth. This step creates your salad’s creamy dressing.
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
|---|---|
| Chill Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 40 minutes |
| Nutritional Information / serving | Calories: 320, Protein: 30g, Carbs: 15g, Fat: 18g |
Step 3
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss until well coated. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
As you complete these steps, make sure to take your time mixing so every ingredient is well-incorporated. For an extra hit of flavor, consider adding herbs like parsley or dill while mixing.
How Can You Serve and Customize This Chicken Salad?
There are numerous ways to enjoy this delicious salad, making it incredibly versatile.
Diet Swap
If you are looking for a low-carb option, consider using lettuce wraps instead of traditional bread. This is a fantastic way to enjoy the salad while cutting down on carbohydrates.
Flavor Variation
Add extra dimension by including diced apples for a crunchy element or fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for more flavor. Feel free to replace dried cranberries with raisins if you prefer. Try this cheeseburger macaroni soup for a comforting recipe alongside your salad.
Serving Idea
Serve the chicken salad on fresh greens like spinach or arugula for a delightful meal. It makes an elegant centerpiece for a summer gathering or a perfect lunch meal for busy weekdays.
| Suggested Pairings / Tips |
|---|
| Pair this salad with whole-grain crackers for crunch. |
| Add fresh fruit on the side for a balanced meal. |
| Perfect for meal prep, serving as an easy grab-and-go lunch! |
This Pecan Cranberry Chicken Salad is extremely adaptable, fitting a variety of dietary needs and flavor preferences. Enjoy preparing it, as the options are endless.
Final Thoughts
As I sit down to enjoy this Pecan Cranberry Chicken Salad, I feel a sense of satisfaction knowing I have created something delicious yet nutritious. It’s great for any occasion, casual or formal, and can even be made ahead of time for ease. When stored correctly, it stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days.
This recipe encourages creativity; feel free to modify as you find what suits your family best. If you love this recipe, share it on social media and try exploring more delicious options on my Pinterest! You can click the link to check it out: our Pinterest page.
FAQ
Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?
Yes, using leftover rotisserie chicken is a convenient and tasty option for this salad. Rotisserie chicken adds flavor while saving preparation time.
How long can I store the salad?
The Pecan Cranberry Chicken Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Enjoy it chilled for the best taste.
Can I add more ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to add extra ingredients like apples, grapes, or different nuts to suit your taste. This flexibility allows you to create a salad that your family will love.
What can I serve this salad with?
This salad pairs beautifully with whole-grain bread, crackers, or over a bed of fresh greens. It also works great as a stuffing for pita pockets.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, this chicken salad is health-conscious, combining lean protein, healthy fats from nuts, and fiber from vegetables, making it a nutritious meal for any diet.
Pecan Cranberry Chicken Salad
Healthy, crunchy, and packed with flavor, this Pecan Cranberry Chicken Salad is the perfect blend of savory and sweet.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, diced celery, and diced red onion.
- In a separate small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth to create the dressing.
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss until well coated. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
For a lower-calorie alternative, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. Serve on fresh greens for a delightful meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Chilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
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