Delicious Chicken Pecan Cranberry Salad: A Perfect Blend of Flavors

The chicken pecan cranberry salad is a delightful dish that combines the savory taste of chicken, the crunchiness of pecans, and the tartness of cranberries. It's a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed as a light meal, a side dish, or a main course. Let's explore this flavorful salad in detail.

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• Chicken Breast: 2 cups, cooked and shredded or diced.
• Pecans: 1/2 cup, toasted and chopped.
• Dried Cranberries: 1/2 cup.
• Celery: 1/2 cup, finely chopped.
• Red Onion: 1/4 cup, finely diced.
• Mixed Greens: 4 cups (optional, for serving).

chicken pecan cranberry salad

For the Dressing:

• Mayonnaise: 1/2 cup.
• Greek Yogurt: 1/4 cup (optional for a lighter version).
• Dijon Mustard: 1 tablespoon.
• Honey: 1 tablespoon.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: 1 tablespoon.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cooking the chicken breasts. You can grill, bake, or poach them until fully cooked. Once cooled, shred or dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

chicken pecan cranberry salad

Step 2: Toast the Pecans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the pecans on a baking sheet and toast for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are fragrant and lightly browned. Allow them to cool before chopping.

Step 3: Combine Salad Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped pecans, dried cranberries, chopped celery, and diced red onion. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of ingredients.

Step 4: Prepare the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (if using), Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.

Step 5: Mix the Salad

Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss to coat all the ingredients thoroughly. Ensure that the chicken and other components are well-coated with the dressing.

Step 6: Serve

Serve the chicken pecan cranberry salad over a bed of mixed greens for added freshness and texture. You can also enjoy it as a sandwich filling or with crackers for a tasty snack.

Tips for the Perfect Salad

• Make Ahead: This salad can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld together beautifully.
• Substitutions: Swap pecans with walnuts or almonds if desired. Fresh cranberries can be used instead of dried for a more tart flavor.
• Add-ins: Incorporate additional ingredients like apples, grapes, or blue cheese for extra flavor and complexity.

Health Benefits

This chicken pecan cranberry salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Chicken provides lean protein, pecans offer healthy fats and antioxidants, and cranberries add a dose of vitamins and fiber. Using Greek yogurt in the dressing adds probiotics and reduces the calorie count.

Conclusion

The chicken pecan cranberry salad is a versatile and tasty dish perfect for any occasion. Its delightful mix of flavors and textures makes it a crowd-pleaser, whether served at a family gathering or a casual lunch. Try this recipe today and enjoy a nutritious and delicious meal!