Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad (Printable)

Creamy chicken salad with sweet cranberries and crunchy pecans

# What You Need:

→ Proteins

01 - 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced

→ Fruits and Nuts

02 - 1/2 cup dried cranberries
03 - 1/2 cup toasted pecans, roughly chopped

→ Vegetables

04 - 1 stalk celery, finely diced
05 - 2 green onions, finely sliced

→ Dressing

06 - 1/2 cup mayonnaise
07 - 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
08 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
09 - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
10 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
11 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

# How-To:

01 - Place diced chicken, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, diced celery, and sliced green onions in a large mixing bowl. Toss to distribute evenly.
02 - Whisk mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl until completely smooth and well combined.
03 - Pour dressing over chicken mixture. Fold gently to coat all ingredients without breaking up the chicken pieces.
04 - Sample salad and adjust salt or pepper as needed to suit personal preference.
05 - Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
06 - Serve on croissants, in lettuce cups, or over fresh salad greens. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The Greek yogurt cuts through mayonnaises richness while adding a protein boost and subtle tang
  • Toasting the pecans yourself makes a huge difference in flavor and brings a warm, nutty depth
  • It keeps beautifully for days and actually tastes better after the flavors meld in the refrigerator
02 -
  • The chicken needs to be completely cooled before mixing, or the heat will make the dressing separate and turn oily
  • Chilling for at least 20 minutes isnt optional, it allows the dried cranberries to plump slightly and the flavors to marry
  • If making ahead, wait to add the pecans until serving time so they stay perfectly crunchy
03 -
  • Season your chicken generously with salt and pepper before cooking if youre starting from raw breasts
  • Pat your diced chicken dry with paper towels before mixing to prevent the dressing from becoming watery

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