Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and crunchy—a true crowd-pleaser! Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week, making a quick lunch, or whipping up something special for a gathering, this recipe is incredibly easy, fresh, and full of flavor. The creamy dressing coats tender shredded chicken, while tart cranberries and crunchy pecans add an irresistible contrast. It’s light yet satisfying, making it ideal for sandwiches, wraps, or even a refreshing salad bowl.
Interestingly, chicken salad has been around for centuries, with its origins tracing back to 1863 in Wakefield, Rhode Island, where a deli owner first combined leftover chicken with mayonnaise, tarragon, and grapes. Over time, variations like this cranberry pecan twist became household favorites.
The best part? This recipe comes together in minutes with simple ingredients you probably already have. Plus, it’s easily customizable—swap the pecans for walnuts or add a little honey for extra sweetness. Once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again. Ready to dig in? Let’s get started!
Recipe Yield: 4-6 servings
INGREDIENTS
3 cups cooked shredded chicken (about 2 large chicken breasts)
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1/3 cup finely diced celery
1/4 cup finely diced red onion
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
one tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 tsp honey
3/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp garlic powder
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Whisk the dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, honey, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until smooth.
2. Combine ingredients: Add the shredded chicken, cranberries, pecans, celery, and red onion to the bowl. Toss until everything is well-coated in the dressing.
3. Chill & serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve on croissants, in wraps, or over crisp salad greens.
HELPFUL TIPS TO PERFECT THIS RECIPE
- Toast the Pecans – Lightly toasting the pecans enhances their nutty richness and keeps them crunchy longer.
- Balance the Sweetness – If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the cranberries or skip the honey. Want more? Add a little more honey or even chopped apples.
- Best Chicken to Use – Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut, but poached chicken breasts give the cleanest, juiciest texture.
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