Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe

There is something irresistibly satisfying about a bowl of Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad. With its perfect combination of tender chicken, juicy cranberries, crunchy pecans, and a luxuriously creamy dressing, this salad is always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re planning a picnic, prepping weekday lunches, or looking for a dish that bridges comfort and elegance, this recipe covers all the bases. Each ingredient brings a little magic: tang, crunch, natural sweetness, and a savory richness that ties it all together. It’s a personal favorite for those days when you want something special without breaking a sweat in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad recipe comes together with just a handful of pantry and fresh staples. Each component isn’t just for flavor—they all contribute an element of crunch, color, or creaminess, making the finished bowl nothing short of swoon-worthy.

• Cooked chicken: Use either rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken for a shortcut and maximum juiciness.
• Dried cranberries: These chewy little bites add tang and a pop of color that makes the salad truly gorgeous.
• Pecans: Toast and chop for extra crunch and a subtle, buttery flavor.
• Celery: Fresh crunch and a hint of herbal flavor balance all the creamy elements.
• Red onion: Finely chop for a mild sharpness that ties all the flavors together without overpowering the salad.
• Mayonnaise: The creamy backbone of the dressing—choose a good-quality mayo for best results.
• Poppy seeds: These tiny seeds give an unexpected crunch and a little pop of nuttiness in every bite.
• Honey: Just a touch for mellow sweetness that complements the tangy cranberries perfectly.
• Salt and pepper: Taste and season to your liking—they bring all the flavors into perfect harmony.

How to Make Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Step 1: Gather and Prep Your Ingredients

Before you start mixing, get all your ingredients measured and ready to go. Shred your cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces, chop up the celery and red onion finely, and roughly chop the pecans for maximum crunch in every forkful.

Step 2: Combine the Salad Base

In a large mixing bowl, add your shredded chicken, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, crisp celery, and red onion. Take your time to gently toss everything together so that every ingredient is evenly distributed. This colorful mixture is already a feast for the eyes!

Step 3: Whisk Up the Creamy Dressing

In a separate small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, poppy seeds, honey, and season generously with salt and pepper. Whisk everything together until your dressing is completely smooth and silky—this little extra step means every bite will be perfectly coated.

Step 4: Dress and Toss

Pour the bright, creamy dressing over your chicken mixture. With a spatula or large spoon, gently fold until all the chicken, nuts, and fruit are thoroughly coated. Take care not to mash the ingredients—the goal is a salad that’s lush and chunky, never mushy.

Step 5: Chill and Let the Flavors Mingle

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This short resting period gives all the flavors in your Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad time to marry, creating something greater than the sum of its parts.

How to Serve Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Garnishes

A fresh sprinkling of extra chopped pecans and a handful of dried cranberries right before serving is a simple way to add both visual appeal and one last layer of texture. For something a little green, a bit of fresh parsley or chives makes the salad look ever-so-inviting.

Side Dishes

This salad is wonderfully versatile: pile it onto a soft croissant for a picnic lunch, scoop it alongside a leafy green salad for a light dinner, or serve with crackers and veggie sticks for a party spread. It loves to be the star but happily shares the plate with just about anything.

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful! Spoon your Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad into hollowed-out avocado halves, fill crisp lettuce cups for a low-carb option, or stuff it inside mini pitas for lunchboxes. For gatherings, try serving it in phyllo cups or on endive leaves for easy, elegant hors d’oeuvres.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad keeps beautifully in the fridge. Simply transfer it to an airtight container, and it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. You’ll notice the flavors deepen even more overnight, making leftovers an extra treat.

Freezing

Freezing isn’t recommended for this salad due to the mayo-based dressing and the fresh veggies, which can get watery and change texture when thawed. For the best taste and crunch, always enjoy this salad fresh from the fridge.

Reheating

No reheating needed! Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is meant to be enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, which makes it perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or any situation when you want something deliciously fuss-free.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie or leftover chicken in this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie or leftover chicken works beautifully. Not only is it convenient, but it’s also super flavorful. Just shred it into bite-sized pieces before mixing it with the other ingredients.

What can I substitute for mayonnaise if I want a lighter version?

For a lighter take, try using half Greek yogurt and half mayonnaise. This will cut the richness a bit while keeping your Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad creamy and satisfying.

Can I make Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad in advance?

Yes, this salad can be made a day ahead. In fact, chilling overnight lets the flavors meld even more. If making ahead, add the pecans right before serving to maintain their crunch.

Is there a way to make this salad nut-free?

Definitely! Simply omit the pecans or swap them for toasted pepitas or sunflower seeds. You’ll still get lovely texture without the nuts.

How can I make this salad dairy-free?

This Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is naturally dairy-free as written, just be sure to check your mayonnaise brand for any hidden dairy ingredients.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for a salad that’s as delightful as it is easy, make this Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad your next kitchen adventure. It’s a dish I return to again and again, and I know it’ll earn a spot in your favorites too. Gather your ingredients, give it a try, and share it with someone you love!

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