Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad (Print Version)

Juicy chicken, cranberries, pecans, and celery in a creamy dressing—delicious in sandwiches or over greens.

# Components:

→ Chicken

01 - 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded (approximately 2 medium breasts)

→ Salad Additions

02 - 1/2 cup dried cranberries
03 - 1/2 cup pecan halves, toasted and roughly chopped
04 - 2 stalks celery, finely diced
05 - 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
06 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

→ Dressing

07 - 1/2 cup mayonnaise
08 - 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt or sour cream
09 - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
10 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
11 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
12 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

# Directions:

01 - Poach or roast chicken breasts until cooked through if not using pre-cooked poultry. Allow to cool, then dice or shred into bite-sized pieces.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, combine diced chicken, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, celery, red onion, and chopped parsley.
03 - In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until smooth and cohesive.
04 - Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture. Toss gently using a spoon or spatula to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
05 - Taste the salad and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper as preferred.
06 - Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Serve chilled alone, over a bed of greens, in a sandwich, or wrapped in a tortilla.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Naturally gluten free and easily made lighter
  • Perfect use for leftover rotisserie or cooked chicken
  • Lunch prep that stays fresh in the fridge up to three days
  • Festive enough for special brunches but easy enough for busy weekdays
02 -
  • Great for meal prep
  • So easy to make dairy or nut free
  • Packed with protein and totally satisfying
03 -
  • Shred the chicken while it is still a bit warm for moist tender pieces
  • Do not skip toasting the pecans since it transforms the flavor
  • Add extra lemon juice if you want a tangier refreshing bite

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