Lunch just got a whole lot brighter and tastier. This Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad combines tender poached chicken with a creamy, zesty dressing and a delightful crunch.
One afternoon, I was craving something light but filling. Mixing juicy chicken with sweet cranberries and toasted pecans, then tossing it all in a luscious dressing, instantly lifted my spirits. The crisp celery and green onions add the perfect freshness to every bite.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Quick and easy to prepare for busy weekdays
- Perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and crunchy textures
- Fresh, colorful ingredients make it as pretty as it is delicious
- Versatile enough for sandwiches, wraps, or served on its own
Ready in under 30 minutes, this salad is a comforting, wholesome choice that feels like a treat.
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Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4
Description
Poached and diced chicken breast tossed in a creamy mayonnaise and Greek yogurt dressing with lemon juice and Dijon mustard, combined with dried cranberries, chopped pecans, celery, and green onions for a refreshing, crunchy salad.
Ingredients
Diced cooked chicken breast
Dried cranberries
Chopped pecans
Celery, finely chopped
Green onions, thinly sliced
Mayonnaise
Greek yogurt
Lemon juice
Dijon mustard
Salt
Black pepper
Instructions
Poach chicken breast in simmering water until cooked through, about 15 minutes. Remove and dice into bite-sized pieces.
In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
Add diced chicken, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, finely chopped celery, and thinly sliced green onions to the dressing.
Gently fold ingredients together until everything is evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
Transfer salad to a shallow white bowl, mound it neatly, and garnish with whole pecans and a few dried cranberries on top.
Serve immediately or chill before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
FAQ
Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Yes! It stays fresh and flavorful in the fridge for up to 2 days when stored in an airtight container.
What’s the best way to enjoy leftovers?
Serve chilled over a bed of greens or use it as a filling for pita pockets to keep lunch exciting.
Save this recipe, print it out, or dig in right away—your next favorite lunch awaits.