Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad
Creamy, crunchy, sweet, and savory, this Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad combines tender shredded chicken with crisp celery, chewy dried cranberries, crunchy pecans, and a creamy dressing. It’s perfect for sandwiches, wraps, croissants, or a light lunch.
🕒 Quick Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Cuisine: American
- Difficulty: Easy
🥘 Ingredients
For the Chicken Salad
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 2 large |
| Dried cranberries | ¾ cup |
| Pecans, roughly chopped | ¾ cup |
| Celery, finely diced | 1 cup |
| Green onions, finely chopped | ¼ cup |
| Salt | ½ tsp |
| Black pepper | ¼ tsp |
For the Creamy Dressing
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | ½ cup |
| Plain Greek yogurt | ¼ cup |
| Honey | 1 tbsp |
| Dijon mustard | 1 tsp |
| Lemon juice | 1 tbsp |
| Garlic powder | ¼ tsp |
| Salt | ¼ tsp |
| Black pepper | ⅛ tsp |
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Cook the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 12–15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) internally.
Remove the chicken and let it cool slightly.
2. Shred the Chicken
Using two forks, shred the cooked chicken into small, bite-sized pieces. For the best texture, avoid shredding it too finely.
3. Prepare the Dressing
In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, honey, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
4. Combine the Ingredients
Add the shredded chicken, dried cranberries, diced celery, green onions, and chopped pecans to a large bowl.
5. Add the Dressing
Pour the creamy dressing over the chicken mixture. Gently fold everything together until the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated.
6. Chill and Serve
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully.
Serve chilled on croissants, toasted bread, lettuce cups, crackers, or in a wrap.
🔄 Variations & Substitutions
| Ingredient | Substitute |
|---|---|
| Pecans | Walnuts or almonds |
| Dried cranberries | Raisins or dried cherries |
| Greek yogurt | Sour cream |
| Mayonnaise | Avocado mayonnaise |
| Green onions | Red onion |
| Chicken breast | Rotisserie chicken |
| Honey | Maple syrup |
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
| Serving Idea | How to Serve |
|---|---|
| Croissant | Spoon the chicken salad into a buttery croissant |
| Sandwich | Serve between two slices of toasted bread |
| Lettuce cups | Add a scoop to crisp lettuce leaves |
| Wrap | Roll inside a tortilla with fresh greens |
| Salad bowl | Serve over mixed greens |
| Crackers | Use as a creamy appetizer or snack |
💡 Tips for the Best Chicken Salad
- Use chilled chicken for a firmer, better texture.
- Toast the pecans for 3–5 minutes in a dry skillet for extra flavor.
- Add the cranberries just before mixing so they retain their chewy texture.
- Let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- If the mixture feels too thick, add 1 tablespoon of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise.
- For a lighter version, increase the Greek yogurt and reduce the mayonnaise.
🥗 Nutritional Information
Approximate per serving, without bread or croissant:
- Calories: 430 kcal
- Protein: 32 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fat: 26 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 13 g
- Sodium: 560 mg
❤️ Benefits
This chicken salad provides a good amount of protein from chicken, while pecans contribute healthy fats and crunch. Celery adds freshness and fiber, while dried cranberries provide natural sweetness and antioxidants. Using Greek yogurt in the dressing also adds extra protein and creates a creamy texture.
❓ Recipe Q&A
Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Rotisserie chicken is an excellent shortcut. Simply remove the skin and shred the meat.
Q: How long does cranberry pecan chicken salad last?
Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy within 3–4 days.
Q: Can I make it without mayonnaise?
Yes. Replace the mayonnaise with additional Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Q: Can I freeze chicken salad?
Freezing is not recommended because the creamy dressing can separate and become watery after thawing.
Q: What is the best way to serve it?
It’s delicious in croissants, sandwiches, wraps, lettuce cups, or over a bed of greens.