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Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

A delightful and refreshing twist on classic chicken salad, combining tender chicken, crunchy celery, tangy cranberries, and creamy dressing.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 3 cups cooked chicken breast (or rotisserie chicken, pulled) Juicy and protein-packed, chicken serves as the hearty base for this dish.
  • 2 stalks celery (cut down the middle and sliced) Provides a satisfying crunch and refreshing taste.
  • 3 tbsp red onion (minced) Aromatic and slightly tangy, enhances the flavor of this salad.
  • 1/2 apple (chopped) Adds sweetness and contrast against the savory elements.
  • 1/3 cup dried cranberries (chopped) Lends a delightful tart sweetness.
  • 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (or light sour cream) Adds moisture while keeping the dish light.
  • 1/2 cup light mayonnaise Provides a silky texture and creamy consistency.
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard Enhances the overall flavor profile.
  • 2 tsp fresh parsley (minced) Adds a burst of color and freshness.
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder Brings depth to the dressing.
  • 1 tsp salt Essential for balancing flavors.
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper Adds a hint of spice.
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans (toasted or candied) Adds crunch and a delightful nutty flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, celery, red onion, apple, and dried cranberries. Gently toss the ingredients together to evenly distribute.
  2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt or sour cream, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, parsley, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
  3. Pour the dressing into the large bowl with the chicken mixture. Toss everything together carefully to ensure well-coated ingredients.
  4. For optimal flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour.
  5. Just before serving, fold in the toasted pecans to retain their crunch.

Notes

To elevate your salad, consider using shredded rotisserie chicken for added flavor, experimenting with different nuts, adding lemon juice for brightness, or increasing the sweetness with additional cranberries or grapes. Adjust the creaminess by varying the Greek yogurt or mayonnaise.