The Ultimate Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe: A Flavorful Delight

Looking for the perfect combination of sweet and savory in a chicken salad? Look no further! Our cranberry pecan chicken salad recipe is a delightful blend of tender chicken, tangy cranberries, crunchy pecans, and flavorful herbs, all bound together with a creamy dressing. Whether served on a bed of greens, in a sandwich, or as a delicious dip, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Let's dive into the details:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans, toasted
• 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for added sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried dill (or 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Lettuce leaves or bread for serving (optional)

best cranberry pecan chicken salad recipe

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Cook the chicken breasts by grilling, baking, or boiling until fully cooked. Allow them to cool slightly, then dice or shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

2. Toast the Pecans: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the chopped pecans until fragrant and lightly browned, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Remove from heat and let cool.

3. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, honey (if using), lemon juice, dried dill, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.

4. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, chopped celery, and red onion.

5. Add Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the chicken mixture and toss gently until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.

6. Chill and Serve: Cover the chicken salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled on a bed of lettuce leaves, as a sandwich filling, or as a dip with crackers or sliced veggies.

Tips for Success:

• For added flavor, try incorporating fresh herbs like parsley or thyme into the salad.
• Customize the sweetness of the dressing by adjusting the amount of honey to suit your taste preferences.
• Make it ahead of time for easy meal prep or entertaining. This chicken salad tastes even better after chilling in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight.

best cranberry pecan chicken salad recipe

Conclusion:

With its irresistible combination of juicy chicken, tart cranberries, crunchy pecans, and creamy dressing, this cranberry pecan chicken salad is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch, a satisfying dinner, or a party appetizer, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and prepare to be delighted by the delicious flavors and textures in every bite!