Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is a crowd-pleaser, offering a wonderful balance of flavors and textures. The combination of savory chicken, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans is elevated with a creamy dressing that includes honey, Dijon mustard, and poppy seeds. It’s light yet satisfying and makes for an excellent addition to any festive table. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy holiday gatherings or a simple weeknight dinner.

Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing

Ingredients

Dressing

½ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup sour cream
2 tablespoons honey (softened)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon poppy seeds
Salt to taste

Salad

4 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped (about 2 chicken breasts)
1 cup chopped pecans
½ cup dried cranberries
4 green onions, chopped

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a medium bowl, combine all dressing ingredients. Whisk until well combined. Add salt to taste.
In a large bowl, combine all salad ingredients. Add the dressing and toss everything together to coat. Add salt to taste, if needed.
Serve immediately, or refrigerate for an hour to let the flavors meld together.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add apples: For a touch of sweetness and crunch, try adding diced green apples to the salad.
Use Greek yogurt: Substitute the sour cream for Greek yogurt for a lighter version of the dressing.
Add greens: Serve the salad on a bed of mixed greens for added freshness.
Substitute nuts: If you don’t have pecans, walnuts or almonds can be used as a substitute.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: This salad is best served chilled and doesn’t need reheating. However, if preferred, you can microwave individual servings for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, ensuring not to warm the dressing too much.

FAQs

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the salad up to a day in advance. Just be sure to add the dressing right before serving to keep the salad fresh.

2. Can I use rotisserie chicken for this salad?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully in this recipe and makes it even easier to prepare.

3. How long will the salad last in the fridge?

The salad will last for up to 3 days in the fridge, but it’s best enjoyed within the first day or two for optimal flavor.

4. Can I freeze this salad?

It’s not recommended to freeze this salad as the dressing and ingredients may not hold up well after being frozen and thawed.

5. Can I make the dressing without mayonnaise?

You can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a light sour cream to make the dressing healthier.

6. What type of chicken should I use?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe, but you can use thighs for a richer flavor if preferred.

7. Can I make this salad vegan?

To make a vegan version, use plant-based mayo and sour cream and replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu.

8. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried ones?

While fresh cranberries could be used, they are quite tart. Dried cranberries add a nice sweetness that balances the salad, so consider using them for the best flavor.

9. How can I adjust the sweetness of the dressing?

If you prefer a sweeter dressing, you can increase the amount of honey in the recipe to suit your taste.

10. What other nuts can I use in this recipe?

Walnuts, almonds, or cashews can be substituted for pecans if desired.

Conclusion

Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is a perfect dish for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to casual dinners. With its mix of savory, sweet, and crunchy elements, it’s sure to become a favorite. Easy to make and versatile, this salad is both refreshing and filling, making it an excellent addition to your recipe collection.