Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Fresh and Flavorful Recipe
Looking for a fresh and tasty dish that’s easy to make? My Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is the perfect answer! This recipe blends juicy chicken, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans for a flavor explosion. Whether you want a quick lunch or a side dish, this salad ticks all the boxes. Ready to delight your taste buds? Let’s dive into the ingredients and make something delicious!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The sweet and tart cranberries paired with the crunchy pecans create a delightful contrast that elevates the chicken salad to a new level.
- Healthy Ingredients: This salad is packed with protein from the chicken and healthy fats from the pecans, making it a nutritious option for any meal.
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this salad in no time, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
- Versatile Serving Options: Whether served on a bed of greens, in a sandwich, or on its own, this chicken salad can adapt to any dining situation.
Ingredients
Complete List of Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup pecans, coarsely chopped
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
To start, gather all your ingredients. I recommend using cooked chicken breast. You can shred it or cube it, based on your taste. Next, grab dried cranberries. They add a sweet twist. Then, use coarsely chopped pecans for that crunch. Celery brings in a nice crisp texture, and red onion adds a mild bite.
For the dressing, plain Greek yogurt works well. If you prefer it creamier, use mayonnaise instead. Dijon mustard gives it a tangy kick, while honey adds sweetness. Don’t forget salt and black pepper for flavor. Lastly, fresh parsley makes a lovely garnish, but it’s optional.
This mix of flavors and textures makes the salad fresh and satisfying.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Mixing the Chicken and Vegetables
Start by grabbing a big bowl. Add 2 cups of cooked chicken. You can shred or cube it. Next, toss in 1/2 cup of dried cranberries. Follow that with 1/2 cup of chopped pecans. Then, add 1/4 cup of finely chopped celery and 1/4 cup of diced red onion. Mix everything well using a spatula. Make sure the chicken and veggies are evenly spread.
- Preparing the Dressing
In a smaller bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup of plain Greek yogurt. You can swap it for mayonnaise if you want creaminess. Add 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard and 1 tablespoon of honey. Season the mixture with salt and pepper. Keep whisking until it’s smooth and blended.
- Combining the Chicken Mixture and Dressing
Drizzle the dressing over the chicken mix. Use the spatula to fold the chicken and dressing together. This step is important! Ensure all ingredients get coated. Taste it and add more salt or pepper if needed.
- Chilling and Serving the Salad
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid. Put it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This waiting time helps the flavors mix. When you’re ready to serve, gently toss the salad again. If you like, add some chopped parsley on top for color. Serve on mixed greens or in bowls for a nice touch.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Your Chicken Salad
Choosing the Right Chicken
Start with cooked chicken breast. You can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken. Shredding or cubing the chicken works great. The texture helps mix well with other ingredients.
Adjusting the Dressing Consistency
I prefer plain Greek yogurt for a healthy twist. If you want it creamier, add mayonnaise instead. Adjust the amount to your taste. If the dressing feels too thick, add a splash of water or lemon juice. This keeps it light and fresh.
Flavor Enhancements: Herbs and Spices
Herbs can elevate your salad. Fresh parsley adds color and taste. You might try dill or tarragon for a different flavor profile. A pinch of garlic powder or paprika can add warmth. Experiment with spices to find what you love!
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Chicken: For the best flavor and texture, use freshly cooked chicken breast instead of pre-packaged or canned chicken.
- Customize Your Nuts: Feel free to substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile.
- Add a Zesty Twist: Incorporate a splash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar to brighten the flavors of the salad.
- Make Ahead: This salad can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen and develop for a delicious meal prep option.
Variations
Alternative Ingredients
- Substituting Greek Yogurt for Mayonnaise
You can swap Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. This change cuts fat and adds protein. Greek yogurt has a tangy taste that brightens the salad. It also keeps the dish creamy and delicious.
- Adding Fruits and Vegetables
You can mix in other fruits and veggies for more flavor. Chopped apples or grapes add sweetness. Bell peppers give a nice crunch. You can also try adding shredded carrots for color and texture.
- Nut-Free Options
If you need a nut-free version, leave out the pecans. You can replace them with sunflower seeds for crunch. This keeps the texture enjoyable while making it safe for those with nut allergies.
Feel free to play around with these options. Each variation makes this salad unique and tasty!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
Best Practices for Refrigeration
To keep your cranberry pecan chicken salad fresh, store it in an airtight container. This helps lock in flavor and keep out air. Make sure the salad is cool before sealing. Place it in the fridge right away. It will stay good for about 3 to 4 days.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze this salad, but it may change the texture. For best results, freeze only the chicken part. Place it in a freezer-safe bag. Squeeze out any air and seal it well. Use it within 2 to 3 months for optimal taste. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Shelf Life and Signs of Spoilage
Check for spoilage before eating. Look for off smells or changes in color. If you see any mold or weird textures, it’s best to toss the salad. The dressing can separate after a few days, but a quick stir usually fixes it. Always trust your senses; they guide you well in the kitchen!
FAQs
Common Questions about Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, you can use rotisserie chicken. It saves time and adds great flavor. Just shred or chop it before mixing it with the other ingredients.
How long does the salad last in the fridge?
The salad lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Always store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
What can I serve with Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad?
This salad pairs well with mixed greens, crackers, or bread. You can also enjoy it in a wrap or sandwich for a quick meal.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it ahead. Just keep it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. The flavors will blend nicely.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this salad is gluten-free. Just check the labels on your ingredients to be sure they meet your needs.
This blog post covered all you need for a delicious Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad. We started with the essential ingredients and moved to step-by-step instructions. You learned tips for perfecting your salad, explored variations, and found helpful storage info.
Remember, you can easily adjust the recipe for your taste. Enjoy this tasty dish at your next mea
Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
- 0.5 cup dried cranberries
- 0.5 cup pecans, coarsely chopped
- 0.25 cup celery, finely chopped
- 0.25 cup red onion, finely diced
- 0.75 cup plain Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise for a creamier texture)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- to taste Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- to taste Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the shredded or cubed chicken with the dried cranberries, chopped pecans, finely chopped celery, and diced red onion. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix thoroughly, ensuring the ingredients are well distributed.
- In a separate, smaller bowl, whisk together the plain Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), Dijon mustard, honey, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until the dressing is smooth and completely blended.
- Drizzle the dressing over the chicken mixture. Gently fold the ingredients together with a spatula, ensuring that everything is evenly coated in the dressing. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if necessary.
- Cover the mixing bowl securely with plastic wrap or a lid. Refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the salad to chill.
- Just before serving, give the salad another gentle toss to redistribute the dressing. If desired, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for an added burst of color and flavor.
![- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded - 1/2 cup dill pickles, finely chopped - 1/2 cup ranch dressing - 4 large eggs - 1/4 cup milk - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - 4 large flour tortillas - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish) The main ingredients bring the best flavors to our burritos. First, we use cooked chicken. You can use leftovers from dinner or rotisserie chicken for ease. Shredded chicken mixes well with the tangy dill pickles. You get a nice crunch and zest. The ranch dressing adds creaminess and ties everything together. Next, we add eggs for protein. They make the burritos filling and tasty. Mixing them with milk keeps them soft and fluffy. Garlic and onion powders give the eggs extra flavor. Don’t forget salt and pepper! They enhance all the other tastes. The additional ingredients round out the meal. Cheddar cheese melts beautifully, adding richness. Flour tortillas wrap it all up nicely. Chives make the dish look fresh and bright. You can find the complete recipe in the [Full Recipe] section. With these ingredients, your Pickle Ranch Chicken Breakfast Burritos will be a hit! To start, grab a medium mixing bowl. Combine 2 cups of shredded chicken, 1/2 cup of finely chopped dill pickles, and 1/2 cup of ranch dressing in the bowl. Stir this mixture well until the chicken is coated with the ranch. This flavorful filling is key to our burrito. Set it aside for later use. Next, we need to make our scrambled eggs. In a separate bowl, crack 4 large eggs. Add 1/4 cup of milk, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, and some salt and pepper. Whisk everything until smooth. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and gently pour the egg mixture into the hot skillet. Stir the eggs softly with a spatula until they are creamy and just set. Remove the skillet from heat once they look perfect. Now, let’s put the burritos together! Lay out 4 large flour tortillas on a clean surface. In the center of each tortilla, place a generous amount of the chicken and pickle mixture. Top this with a scoop of the fluffy scrambled eggs and a sprinkle of 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. To form the burritos, fold the sides of each tortilla inward, and then roll them up tightly from the bottom. Make sure the filling stays secure. Return the same skillet to medium heat. Place the rolled burritos seam-side down in the skillet. Cook them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. After cooking, let the burritos cool a bit before slicing them in half for easier serving. You can find the Full Recipe for more details! - Use low heat for creamy eggs. - Stir gently for fluffy texture. When making scrambled eggs, low heat is key. High heat can make eggs dry. Cooking slowly helps keep them soft and creamy. Stirring gently lets air in, making them light and fluffy. - Ensure an even fill to secure the burritos. - Tuck in sides to prevent spillage. Rolling burritos can be tricky, but practice makes perfect. Start with an even fill of chicken and eggs in the center. This helps secure the filling. Tuck in the sides before rolling. This way, you keep everything snug inside. - Use fresh chives for a pop of color. - Serve with extra pickles or hot sauce for added flavor. A great garnish makes your dish shine. Fresh chives add color and a mild flavor. Extra pickles bring crunch and tang. If you like spice, drizzle hot sauce on top. It adds a kick everyone will love. For the full recipe, check out the Pickle Ranch Chicken Breakfast Burritos. {{image_4}} You can switch the chicken for shredded turkey if you like. Turkey gives a nice flavor too. If you want a vegetarian option, use tofu instead. Tofu absorbs spices well and will keep your burrito filling tasty. Want to spice things up? Add diced jalapeños to the filling. They give a nice kick without being too hot. You can also change the cheese. Try pepper jack for a creamy heat or feta for a tangy twist. Both options will make your burritos even more delicious. Tortillas are not just for flour. You can use whole wheat or corn tortillas for a healthier choice. If you want color, try spinach or tomato-based tortillas. These will add a fun look to your dish. You can mix and match to find your favorite combination. For the full recipe, check out the complete guide. Refrigerate leftover burritos for up to 3 days. Place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and tasty. When you are ready to eat, enjoy them cold or reheated. You can freeze uncooked burritos for up to 1 month. Wrap each burrito tightly in plastic wrap. Then place them in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn. When you want to eat them, you can reheat them directly from the freezer or thaw them in the fridge overnight. To keep the texture nice, use an oven or skillet. For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the burritos on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes. For the skillet, warm it over medium heat. Cook the burritos for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are hot and crispy. Yes, you can prepare and refrigerate the filling or entire burritos to save time. I often make the filling a day in advance. This lets the flavors meld together. You can store it in an airtight container. If you want to make the whole burrito, wrap them well in foil or plastic wrap before refrigerating. When you’re ready to eat, just heat them up in the skillet or microwave. Add hot sauce to the chicken mixture or include spicy pickles. I love using pickles with a kick for extra flavor. You can also mix in some diced jalapeños. This gives a nice heat that pairs well with the ranch dressing. Just remember to taste as you go. You want the spice to enhance, not overpower. Pair with fresh fruit, a side salad, or crispy potato wedges for a complete meal. I enjoy adding a fruit salad for a sweet touch. A simple green salad with a light dressing also works well. Crispy potato wedges bring a satisfying crunch. You can even sprinkle some extra chives on top for a fresh finish. If you like, serve with your favorite hot sauce for dipping. These Pickle Ranch Chicken Breakfast Burritos pack flavor in every bite. We combined shredded chicken, dill pickles, and ranch for a tasty filling. Scrambled eggs bring creaminess, while tips for soft eggs and proper rolling help achieve perfect burritos. You can even switch ingredients to fit your taste. Whether you pick turkey or a spicy twist, the options are endless. With proper storage, you can enjoy them later, too. Don't hesitate to try this fun, delicious recipe that makes mornings brighter!](https://dishtreats.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/caeedbb3-1f25-4c27-bd1d-713cf7cd2d52-768x768.webp)
![- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs - 2 teaspoons garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs - Salt and pepper to taste - 2 large eggs - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (for garnish) This dish starts with simple, fresh ingredients. The chicken breasts are the star, offering lean protein. The Parmesan cheese gives a rich, savory flavor. I love panko breadcrumbs for their crunch. They make the crust crispy and delightful. For seasoning, I use garlic and onion powders. They add depth to the chicken. Dried Italian herbs bring a nice touch of flavor. Don't forget salt and pepper for balance. The breading mixture includes eggs and olive oil. The eggs help the coating stick well. Olive oil adds richness. Fresh parsley is for garnish. It brightens up the dish and adds color. You can find the full recipe in the article for more details. Each ingredient plays an important role in making this dish a winner. - Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). - Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it with olive oil. - Combine 1 cup of finely grated Parmesan cheese, 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs, and the seasonings. You can use 2 teaspoons of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs. Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything well in a bowl and set aside. - Take 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Dip each breast into the egg mixture, then coat it in the breadcrumb mix. Make sure to cover it completely. Arrange the coated chicken on the baking sheet, leaving space between each piece. - Drizzle olive oil (2 tablespoons) over the coated chicken for added flavor and crispiness. - Bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes. It is ready when it turns golden and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can find the full recipe to follow along while you cook. To get that amazing crispiness, you need an even coating. Make sure to press the breadcrumb mixture onto the chicken well. This helps the crust stick. Drizzle a little extra olive oil on top before baking. This oil adds a great crunch and helps the chicken brown nicely. Want to kick up the taste? Try adding different spices to the breadcrumb mix. You can mix in paprika for a smoky flavor or some crushed black pepper for a bit of heat. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can also add a nice touch. Experiment until you find your favorite blend! This dish pairs well with lemon wedges. Squeeze some lemon juice over the chicken for brightness. A fresh salad is also a great side. It balances the meal and adds crunch. Try a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to round out your plate! For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. {{image_4}} You can make this dish even more delicious by adding cheese. Try mixing in shredded mozzarella for a cheesy twist. This extra layer of gooey goodness makes every bite special. You can also use different types of cheese. Parmesan pairs well with cheddar, gouda, or even pepper jack. Each choice brings a new flavor to the table. For those who like a kick, add crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mix. This small change can bring big heat. Adjust the amount to suit your taste. Just a pinch can make your chicken sing with flavor. If you want a low-carb version, swap panko for almond flour. Almond flour gives you a nice crunch without the carbs. This option is great for anyone watching their carbs. It keeps the dish light while still being tasty. For the Full Recipe, you’ll find all the details you need to make this meal shine. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps the chicken fresh and safe to eat. When ready to enjoy, just take it out and reheat. You can freeze the breaded chicken before baking for up to 2 months. This option is great for meal prep. Just coat the chicken and place it in a freezer-safe container. When you are ready to cook, bake it straight from the freezer. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness rather than using the microwave. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes. This way, your chicken will stay crunchy and delicious. Enjoy it as if it was freshly made! Yes, chicken thighs can be used for more flavor and moisture. Chicken thighs are juicier than breasts. They provide a rich taste that pairs well with the crispy coating. You can follow the same steps in the recipe. Just adjust the baking time if needed. Serve with pasta, steamed vegetables, or a simple green salad. Pasta with olive oil and garlic makes a great side. Steamed broccoli or green beans add color and nutrients. A light salad with lemon dressing balances the meal perfectly. These options make dinner fun and flavorful! Reduce ingredient quantities accordingly while maintaining ratios. For example, if you need two servings, simply cut the chicken and other ingredients in half. This keeps the flavors balanced and the dish just as tasty. You can easily scale it up or down based on your needs. This post outlined how to make Baked Parmesan Crusted Chicken, from ingredients to storage tips. We covered key steps, including creating a crispy coating and baking methods. To achieve perfect results, remember to coat evenly and explore flavor options. Enjoy this dish with sides like pasta or salad. With easy adjustments for servings, this recipe fits any table. Try it out and savor every bite!](https://dishtreats.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/ab4c9608-7523-42b9-8dc2-3e25f574410b-768x768.webp)
