Every once in a while, a recipe comes along that checks all the boxes: it’s simple, delicious, wholesome, and versatile. Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is one of those dishes. With its creamy base, crunchy nuts, sweet cranberries, and juicy chicken, it offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures in every bite.
This salad is more than just a quick recipe; it’s a solution for busy weekdays, a go-to dish for potlucks, and even an elegant addition to festive gatherings. Whether you spread it on flaky croissants, wrap it in lettuce leaves, or scoop it into a bowl alongside fresh greens, it never fails to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy – Ready in 15–20 minutes.
- Balanced Flavors – Sweet, tangy, creamy, and nutty all in one.
- Meal-Prep Friendly – Lasts 3–4 days in the fridge without losing flavor.
- Crowd-Pleasing – Loved by both kids and adults.
- Customizable – Easy to adapt with fruits, nuts, or herbs.
- Nutritious – Packed with protein, healthy fats, and antioxidants.
Ingredients Breakdown
Main Ingredients
- Cooked Chicken – The protein base. Rotisserie chicken saves time, but home-cooked gives more control.
- Dried Cranberries – Sweet and tart, they add chewiness and color.
- Pecans – Crunchy and buttery; toast for extra depth.
- Green Onions – Provide mild sharpness and freshness.
Dressing
- Mayonnaise – For creamy richness.
- Greek Yogurt – Lightens the dressing and adds tang.
- Honey – Natural sweetness.
- Dijon Mustard – Gentle kick of flavor.
- Lemon Juice – Freshness and balance.
- Salt – To bring everything together.
Optional Add-ins
- Diced apples
- Celery sticks
- Red grapes
- Fresh parsley or dill
Pro Tips for Success
- Toast Pecans for maximum flavor.
- Whisk Dressing Separately before mixing with chicken.
- Dice Ingredients Evenly for a balanced bite.
- Chill Before Serving to let flavors develop.
- Adjust Creaminess by playing with mayo and yogurt ratios.
- Add Fruits Last Minute to prevent sogginess.
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients
Dice or shred cooked chicken. Chop onions and pecans. - Make Dressing
Whisk mayo, yogurt, honey, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and salt until smooth. - Mix the Salad
Add chicken, cranberries, pecans, and onions to the bowl. Stir gently. - Chill and Rest
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. - Serve and Enjoy
Add garnish and serve on sandwiches, wraps, or lettuce cups.
Serving Ideas and Pairings
- Croissant Sandwiches – Buttery croissants pair perfectly with creamy salad.
- Lettuce Wraps – A refreshing, low-carb option.
- Cracker Platter – Great for snacking or parties.
- Stuffed Pitas or Wraps – Portable and filling.
- Over Mixed Greens – Turn it into a full salad bowl.
Pair with:
- Lemon iced tea
- Fresh fruit salad
- Light soups like tomato or vegetable
Variations and Substitutions
- Apple Crunch Version – Add diced apples.
- Celery Classic – For more crunch.
- Nut Swap – Use walnuts or almonds instead of pecans.
- Fruit Twist – Replace cranberries with dried cherries or raisins.
- Herb Boost – Fresh dill, parsley, or thyme for extra flavor.
- Light Version – Use only Greek yogurt instead of mayo.
- Holiday Edition – Add pomegranate seeds for color and festivity.
- Kid-Friendly – Skip mustard and add more honey for a sweeter taste.
- Vegan Option – Replace chicken with chickpeas or tofu, use vegan mayo.
Make-Ahead, Storage & Meal Prep Tips
- Fridge: Store in airtight container for 3–4 days.
- Meal Prep: Portion into containers for grab-and-go lunches.
- Avoid Freezing: The creamy dressing separates when thawed.
- Refresh Before Serving: Stir gently if dressing thickens.
Nutritional Profile & Health Benefits
- Protein – From chicken and Greek yogurt, keeps you full.
- Healthy Fats – Pecans provide heart-friendly omega-3s.
- Antioxidants – Cranberries fight free radicals.
- Vitamins & Minerals – Lemon juice and green onions add vitamin C and potassium.
Approximate Nutrition (per serving, without bread):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 23g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbs: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, but fresh or rotisserie chicken tastes better.
Q: How long does it last?
3–4 days in the fridge.
Q: Can I freeze it?
Not recommended, dressing may separate.
Q: How can I make it dairy-free?
Use only mayo or substitute with dairy-free yogurt.
Q: Can I make it sweeter?
Yes, add extra honey or more cranberries.
Q: Best type of chicken?
Rotisserie or poached chicken works best.
Q: Is it good for potlucks?
Absolutely! Easy to transport and serve cold.
Q: How do I keep pecans crunchy?
Toast them and add just before serving.
Final Thoughts
Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is the kind of dish that proves simple recipes can be extraordinary. With minimal effort, you get a creamy, crunchy, sweet, and savory meal that fits into any occasion—whether a weekday lunch, a picnic with friends, or a festive holiday spread.
Its adaptability means you can keep it classic or experiment with variations, making it a recipe worth returning to again and again. If you’re looking for a salad that balances health, taste, and convenience, this one deserves a spot in your kitchen.
So, gather your ingredients, toast those pecans, and whip up a batch of this delightful chicken salad—you may just find it becoming your new go-to favorite.
