Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad: A Delicious and Easy Recipe for Any Occasion

If you’re looking for a flavorful, protein-packed dish that’s perfect for lunches, dinners, or even a quick snack, this Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is the answer! With its perfect balance of sweet and savory, crunchy and creamy, this salad is a crowd-pleaser that comes together in just 20 minutes.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making the best Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad, including ingredient substitutions, storage tips, serving suggestions, and even the nutritional benefits. Let’s dive in!

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Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

This Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is not just delicious—it’s also incredibly versatile. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

✅ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 20 minutes with minimal prep.
✅ Perfect Balance of Flavors – Sweet cranberries, crunchy pecans, and tender chicken create a mouthwatering combination.
✅ Great for Meal Prep – Stays fresh in the fridge for days, making it ideal for lunches.
✅ Versatile Serving Options – Enjoy it in sandwiches, wraps, salads, or on its own!

Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or hosting a brunch, this Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad will quickly become a favorite.

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Ingredients for Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

To make this delicious salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients

▢ 2 ½ cups cooked chicken (about 2 chicken breasts or 14 oz) – You can use rotisserie chicken for extra flavor.
▢ ½ cup dried cranberries, roughly chopped – Adds a sweet, chewy texture.
▢ ⅓ cup pecans, chopped – Provides a satisfying crunch.
▢ ⅓ cup celery (1 stalk, diced) – Adds freshness and a slight crunch.
▢ ¼ cup green onion (2 stalks, chopped) – Enhances flavor with a mild oniony bite.

Dressing Ingredients

▢ ¾ cup mayonnaise – The creamy base of the dressing.
▢ 4 teaspoons lemon juice – Adds a bright, tangy flavor.
▢ 1 tablespoon honey – Balances the tartness with a touch of sweetness.
▢ ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors.
▢ ¼ teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a subtle savory depth.
▢ ⅛ teaspoon black pepper – A hint of spice to round it out.

Optional Add-Ins & Variations

• Apples or grapes for extra sweetness.
• Dijon mustard for a tangy kick.
• Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a lighter version.
• Fresh herbs like parsley or dill for added freshness.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Ingredients

• Chop the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces.
• Roughly chop the dried cranberries (if they’re too large).
• Toast the pecans (optional but recommended for extra flavor).
• Dice the celery and green onions.

2. Toast the Pecans (Optional but Recommended)

Toasting pecans enhances their nutty flavor and crunch. Here’s how:

1. Heat a pan over medium heat.
2. Lightly spray with cooking oil (or use a dry pan).
3. Add pecans and toast for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Remove from heat, let cool, then chop.

3. Mix the Salad

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, cranberries, pecans, celery, and green onions.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, honey, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until well combined.

4. Serve & Enjoy!

• As a sandwich on croissants, whole wheat bread, or brioche buns.
• In lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
• On a bed of greens for a light salad.
• With crackers or pita chips for a quick snack.

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The Perfect Balance of Flavors in Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

One of the reasons Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad stands out is its perfect balance of flavors and textures. This dish combines sweet, savory, creamy, and crunchy elements in every bite, making it a satisfying meal for any time of day.

Sweetness from Dried Cranberries

The dried cranberries add a natural sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory chicken. Cranberries also provide a chewy texture, enhancing the overall mouthfeel of the salad. If you prefer a tart twist, you can use unsweetened cranberries or even substitute them with dried cherries or golden raisins for a different flavor profile.

Crunchy Pecans for a Nutty Depth

Pecans bring a rich, buttery crunch to the salad. Toasting them before adding them to the mix enhances their nutty flavor and prevents them from becoming soggy. If you don’t have pecans, walnuts or almonds make great substitutes. For an extra layer of flavor, try candied pecans for a sweet and spicy kick.

Creamy, Tangy Dressing

The dressing is a simple yet flavor-packed combination of mayonnaise, lemon juice, honey, and spices. The mayo provides creaminess, while the lemon juice adds brightness. The honey balances the tartness, and the garlic powder and black pepper give it a subtle savory depth. For a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt instead of mayo or add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for extra tang.

Freshness from Celery & Green Onions

The celery adds a refreshing crunch, while the green onions provide a mild onion flavor without overpowering the dish. If you want more freshness, consider adding:

• Diced apples (for sweetness and crunch)
• Red grapes (for juicy bursts of flavor)
• Fresh herbs like parsley or dill (for an aromatic touch)

This harmonious blend of flavors and textures makes Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in sandwiches, wraps, or even as a standalone salad.

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Meal Prep & Serving Ideas for Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

One of the best things about Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is how meal-prep friendly it is. You can make a big batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy it in multiple ways for quick, delicious meals.

Meal Prep Tips

• Store Properly: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Prevent Sogginess: If packing for lunch, keep the dressing separate until ready to eat.
• Freezing? Not recommended—mayo-based salads don’t freeze well.

5 Delicious Ways to Serve It

1. Classic Sandwich
   • Spread on croissants, sourdough, or whole wheat bread.
   • Add lettuce and tomato for extra freshness.
2. Lettuce Wraps (Low-Carb Option)
   • Use butter lettuce or romaine leaves as a crunchy, low-calorie vessel.
3. Stuffed Avocados
   • Halve an avocado, remove the pit, and fill with chicken salad for a healthy, keto-friendly meal.
4. On a Salad Bowl
   • Serve over mixed greens, spinach, or arugula with a light vinaigrette.
5. With Crackers or Pita Chips
   • Perfect for a quick snack or appetizer at parties.

Perfect for Gatherings

This salad is great for picnics, potlucks, and brunches because:
✅ Easy to transport
✅ No reheating needed
✅ Crowd-pleasing flavors

Whether you’re packing lunches or hosting guests, Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is a convenient and tasty choice.

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 Health Benefits & Dietary Adaptations

While Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is undeniably delicious, it also offers several health benefits—especially when made with smart ingredient swaps.

Nutritional Benefits

• High Protein (from chicken) → Keeps you full longer.
• Healthy Fats (from pecans & mayo) → Supports brain health.
• Fiber & Antioxidants (from cranberries & celery) → Aids digestion & fights inflammation.

Dietary Adaptations

1. Lighter Version
   • Replace mayo with Greek yogurt (lower in calories, higher in protein).
   • Use raw honey or maple syrup instead of refined sugar.
2. Keto-Friendly
   • Skip the honey or use a sugar-free substitute.
   • Serve in lettuce wraps instead of bread.
3. Gluten-Free
   • Naturally gluten-free! Just ensure all packaged ingredients (like mayo) are certified GF.
4. Dairy-Free
   • Most mayo is dairy-free, but always check labels.

Boosting Nutritional Value

• Add chia seeds or flaxseeds for omega-3s.
• Mix in shredded kale or spinach for extra vitamins.

This salad can be as healthy or indulgent as you want, making it a flexible choice for different diets.

Tips for the Best Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

🔹 Use high-quality chicken – Rotisserie chicken adds great flavor, but grilled or poached chicken works too.
🔹 Toast the pecans – This step is optional but adds a deeper, richer taste.
🔹 Let it chill – For the best flavor, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
🔹 Adjust sweetness – If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the honey or cranberries.
🔹 Make it ahead – This salad tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

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Storage & Meal Prep Tips

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as mayonnaise-based salads don’t freeze well.
• Meal Prep: Perfect for lunchboxes—pack in small containers with crackers or bread on the side.

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Nutritional Benefits of Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

This salad isn’t just tasty—it’s also packed with nutrients:

✔ High in Protein – Chicken provides lean protein to keep you full.
✔ Healthy Fats – Pecans and mayo (or Greek yogurt) offer good fats.
✔ Fiber & Antioxidants – Cranberries and celery add fiber and vitamins.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories	Carbs	Protein	Fat
259 kcal	10g	11g	20g

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Yes! This recipe works great with leftover turkey, especially after Thanksgiving.

2. How can I make it healthier?

• Swap mayo for Greek yogurt.
• Use raw almonds instead of pecans.
• Add more veggies like diced bell peppers.

3. Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes! Just ensure your mayo is dairy-free (most are).

4. What’s the best bread to serve with this salad?

Buttery croissants, whole-grain bread, or sourdough are all delicious choices.

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Final Thoughts

This Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is a quick, easy, and delicious recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re packing lunches, hosting a party, or just craving a flavorful meal, this salad delivers.