Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

The first time I made this chicken salad, I was trying to use up leftover roast chicken from Sunday dinner. My kitchen smelled like toasted pecans and fresh lemon, and I ended up eating half of it straight from the bowl with a fork before it even made it to the fridge.

I brought this to a friend's summer picnic last year, and people kept asking where I bought it. Watching my normally picky nephew go back for third servings on a croissant was the moment I knew this recipe was a keeper.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast: Diced into bite sized pieces, rotisserie chicken works beautifully here and saves time
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries: These little gems add pops of sweetness that balance the creamy dressing perfectly
• 1/2 cup toasted pecans: Toast them in a dry pan for 3 minutes until fragrant, then chop roughly
• 1 stalk celery: Finely diced for that essential crunch and subtle savory note
• 2 green onions: Slice them thin for mild onion flavor that wont overpower
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Use real mayo for the best texture and richness
• 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt: This adds a pleasant tang and lightens things up
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Just enough to give the dressing depth and character
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Brightens everything and cuts through the creaminess
• 1/4 teaspoon salt and pepper: Season to taste, remembering that the pecans add their own subtle saltiness

Instructions

Combine your base ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, toss together the diced chicken, cranberries, toasted pecans, celery, and green onions until evenly distributed

Whisk the creamy dressing:

In a separate bowl, whisk the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice until completely smooth and creamy

Bring it all together:

Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and fold gently until everything is coated, being careful not to mash the ingredients

Taste and adjust:

Sample your salad and add more salt or pepper if needed, keeping in mind flavors will meld as it chills

Let it rest:

Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes so the flavors can marry and the texture can set properly

Serve it up:

Pile onto croissants, spoon into lettuce cups, or mound over mixed greens with a sprinkle of fresh parsley

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This recipe has become my go to for unexpected guests and busy weeknight lunches. Something about the combination of textures and flavors just makes people happy every single time.

Making It Your Own

Walnuts or almonds work beautifully if you are not a pecan fan. I have also made this with dried cherries when I ran out of cranberries, and honestly it was just as delightful.

Serving Ideas

Beyond the classic sandwich or wrap route, try serving this inside hollowed out tomatoes or avocado halves. It also makes an incredible topping for baked potatoes when you want something heartier.

Storage And Meal Prep

This chicken salad keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it perfect for Sunday meal prep. The pecans will soften slightly over time, so if you are planning to eat this later in the week, consider adding the nuts right before serving.

• Store in an airtight container to prevent absorbing other fridge flavors
• Let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving for the best texture
• Stir gently before serving as dressing may settle

Save

Whether you are feeding a crowd or just treating yourself to something special, this chicken salad never disappoints.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breast?

Yes, using store-bought rotisserie chicken is an excellent time-saving option. Simply shred or dice the meat and proceed with the recipe. The seasoned chicken adds extra depth of flavor to the salad.

→ How long will this chicken salad keep in the refrigerator?

Properly stored in an airtight container, this chicken salad will stay fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. The flavors actually improve after chilling for a few hours, making it perfect for meal prep.

→ Can I make this chicken salad dairy-free?

Absolutely. Simply omit the Greek yogurt and increase the mayonnaise to 3/4 cup, or use a dairy-free yogurt alternative. The creamy texture and tangy flavor will still be delicious.

→ What nuts work best as a substitute for pecans?

Walnuts make an excellent substitute with their similar buttery texture. Sliced almonds also work well and add a delicate crunch. Both alternatives complement the cranberries beautifully.

→ Can I freeze this chicken salad?

Freezing is not recommended as the mayonnaise-based dressing can separate and become grainy when thawed. This dish is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for up to 4 days.