Creamy Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Description

Creamy Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and crunchy. Tender shredded chicken is tossed in a rich, creamy dressing with juicy dried cranberries, crunchy pecans, crisp celery, and a hint of Dijon mustard for extra flavor. It’s an easy, protein-packed meal that’s perfect for sandwiches, wraps, lettuce cups, crackers, or served over a fresh green salad. Whether you’re meal prepping lunches or serving guests at brunch, this chicken salad is always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Salad

3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
½ cup dried cranberries
½ cup chopped pecans, lightly toasted
2 celery stalks, finely diced
2 green onions, sliced
¼ cup diced red onion (optional)

For the Dressing

½ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp honey
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnish

Fresh parsley, chopped
Extra pecans
Extra dried cranberries

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, celery, green onions, and red onion.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and gently stir until everything is evenly coated.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
Serve chilled on croissants, toasted bread, wraps, crackers, lettuce leaves, or over mixed greens.

Tips & Notes

Rotisserie chicken works perfectly for a quick version.
Toast the pecans for deeper flavor and extra crunch.
Add diced apples or grapes for even more sweetness.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Do not freeze, as the creamy dressing may separate after thawing.

Servings

Serves: 6

Nutrition (Approx. Per Serving)

Calories: 390
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 11g
Fat: 27g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 8g