Description
This Savory Cranberry Chicken Salad is a delightful twist on the classic chicken salad, combining tender shredded chicken with the sweet-tart flavor of dried cranberries, crunchy celery, and toasted nuts for texture. Tossed in a creamy dressing made with Greek yogurt or mayo, this dish strikes the perfect balance between savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a make-ahead meal prep option, or a crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings, this chicken salad is as versatile as it is delicious. Serve it on a bed of greens, in a sandwich, or with crackers for a satisfying meal that’s both comforting and refreshing!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup celery, finely diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
- ¼ cup toasted pecans or walnuts, chopped (optional, for crunch)
For the Dressing:
- ½ cup Greek yogurt or mayonnaise (or a mix of both)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Mixed greens (optional, for serving)
- Whole-grain bread or crackers (optional, for sandwiches or snacks)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- If using raw chicken, cook and shred it (or use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience). Toast the pecans or walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant, then chop them into small pieces.
2. Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt (or mayo), Dijon mustard, honey (or maple syrup), apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), salt, and pepper. Adjust sweetness or tanginess to taste.
3. Combine the Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, dried cranberries, diced celery, red onion, and toasted nuts (if using). Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
4. Chill and Serve:
- Cover the chicken salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled on a bed of mixed greens, in a sandwich, or with crackers. Garnish with extra cranberries or nuts if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 Minutes
- Cook Time: 30 Minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
