Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad: A Perfect Blend of Sweet and Savory

If you’re looking for a versatile and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways, this Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is a must-try. Combining tender shredded chicken with sweet cranberries, crunchy pecans, and a creamy dressing, this salad offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors. It’s easy to make, perfect for meal prep, and ideal for serving on sandwiches, with greens, or alongside crackers. Whether you’re preparing lunch for the week or need a dish for a gathering, this chicken salad is sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad:

• 3 cups shredded chicken
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1 1/2 cups mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken Salad

1. Mix the Main Ingredients:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of shredded chicken, 1/2 cup of dried cranberries, 1/2 cup of chopped celery, and 1/2 cup of chopped pecans. Toss the ingredients together until they are evenly distributed.
2. Make the Dressing:
   In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 2 tablespoons of sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper until smooth and well combined.
3. Combine the Salad:
   Pour the mayonnaise dressing over the chicken mixture. Stir until all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.

2. Chill and Serve

1. Refrigerate:
   Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a few hours before serving. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the overall taste.
2. Serve:
   Serve the cranberry pecan chicken salad on croissants, bread, or with crackers for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Serving Suggestions

This Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it:

• On Sandwiches: Spread it on your favorite bread or croissants for a quick and tasty sandwich.
• Over Greens: Serve it on a bed of fresh greens for a light and refreshing salad.
• With Crackers: Use it as a dip with your favorite crackers for an easy appetizer or snack.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop over time, making it even more delicious the next day.

Conclusion

This Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is a wonderful combination of sweet, savory, and creamy flavors that’s perfect for any occasion. The dried cranberries add a burst of sweetness, while the pecans provide a satisfying crunch. Whether you’re enjoying it as a sandwich, salad, or dip, this chicken salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Chilling Time: A few hours | Total Time: 15 minutes + chilling time
Calories: 350 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

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