Sometimes lunch needs to be simple, satisfying, and a little special. This Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad hits all those notes with fresh colors and a creamy, tangy dressing.
I remember the first time I made this salad—it was a sunny afternoon, and I wanted something bright and comforting. Each bite brought together the sweetness of cranberries, the crunch of pecans, and the cool creaminess of the dressing. It quickly became a go-to for busy days.
- Creamy dressing made from mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, honey, and Dijon mustard
- Poached chicken breast diced for tender, juicy bites
- Crisp celery and green onions add a fresh crunch
- Dried cranberries and pecans bring sweet and nutty textures
- Beautifully plated with a neat mound on a white plate, garnished for a vibrant finish
Ready in under 30 minutes and easily made ahead, this salad is a comforting, fresh lunch choice that feels like a treat.
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Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4
Description
A creamy and crunchy chicken salad featuring poached diced chicken breast, dried cranberries, pecans, celery, and green onions tossed in a honey-Dijon Greek yogurt and mayonnaise dressing.
Ingredients
Diced cooked chicken breast
Dried cranberries
Chopped pecans
Celery, finely diced
Green onions, thinly sliced
Mayonnaise
Greek yogurt
Honey
Dijon mustard
Salt
Black pepper
Instructions
Poach the chicken breast in simmering water until cooked through, about 12-15 minutes. Remove and chill completely.
In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
Add the diced chicken, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, finely diced celery, and thinly sliced green onions to the dressing.
Gently fold all ingredients together until evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
Spoon the salad into a neat mound on a white round plate.
Garnish the top with whole pecans and a few dried cranberries for a fresh and colorful presentation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
FAQ
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can poach and chill the chicken in advance, then mix everything together just before serving to keep the textures crisp.
How should leftovers be stored?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and crunch.
Save this recipe to enjoy a fresh, creamy, and crunchy chicken salad that’s perfect anytime.