Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

This creamy Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad transforms leftover chicken into an elegant lunch that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. The combination of crunchy pecans, tart cranberries, and tender chicken creates a texture symphony that makes each bite memorable.

I first created this recipe when looking for creative ways to use rotisserie chicken, and it quickly became my signature dish for baby showers and ladies' luncheons. The compliments never stop coming when I bring this to gatherings.

Ingredients

• Mayonnaise forms the creamy base that binds everything together while adding richness
• Sour cream brings a pleasant tanginess that balances the sweetness
• Honey adds natural sweetness that complements the cranberries beautifully
• Dijon mustard provides a subtle kick that elevates the entire flavor profile
• Poppy seeds contribute tiny bursts of nutty flavor and visual appeal
• Cooked chicken breast delivers lean protein and a neutral canvas for the flavors
• Pecans offer buttery crunch and heart healthy fats
• Dried cranberries provide chewy texture and bright bursts of tartness
• Green onions add mild onion flavor without overpowering the delicate balance

How To Make Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Prepare the dressing

Whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, honey, dijon mustard, poppy seeds, and salt in a medium bowl until completely smooth. Take your time with this step to ensure the honey fully incorporates for even sweetness throughout.

Combine dry ingredients

Place your chopped cooked chicken breast, pecans, dried cranberries, and sliced green onions in a large mixing bowl. I prefer cutting the chicken into half-inch cubes for the perfect bite size that allows the other ingredients to shine.

Mix everything together

Pour the prepared dressing over your chicken mixture and gently fold everything together using a rubber spatula. Be careful not to overmix or the chicken will break down too much. You want each ingredient to maintain its distinct texture.

Final seasoning

Taste the finished salad and adjust the salt level if needed. Let it rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.

The dried cranberries are my secret weapon in this recipe. I discovered their magic when I ran out of grapes for my traditional chicken salad years ago. Their concentrated sweet tartness adds so much more dimension than fresh fruit ever could. Now my family refuses to eat chicken salad any other way.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile chicken salad can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Serve it between slices of buttery croissants for an indulgent sandwich, or pile it atop mixed greens for a lighter lunch option. For a beautiful presentation at parties, hollow out cucumber rounds and fill them with small scoops of the salad for elegant appetizers that disappear quickly.

Storage Tips

Store your cranberry pecan chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually improve after a day as everything melds together. I do not recommend freezing this salad as the mayo-based dressing will separate upon thawing, and the crisp texture of the pecans and green onions will be compromised.

Ingredient Substitutions

This recipe welcomes many adaptations based on dietary needs or what you have on hand. Greek yogurt works wonderfully in place of sour cream for a lighter version. Walnuts or sliced almonds can substitute for pecans if preferred. For a sweeter variation, try using dried cherries instead of cranberries. Rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor, but any cooked chicken will work beautifully.

Recipe FAQs

→ How long does this chicken salad keep in the refrigerator?

When stored in an airtight container, this cranberry pecan chicken salad will keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For optimal freshness and food safety, refrigerate promptly after preparing and serving.

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken for this salad?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully in this salad and is a great time-saver. Simply remove the skin, shred or chop the meat, and measure out approximately 4 cups to use in the recipe. The slightly seasoned flavor of rotisserie chicken can even enhance the overall taste.

→ What are some serving suggestions for this chicken salad?

This versatile chicken salad can be served in multiple ways: as a sandwich filling in croissants or hearty bread, wrapped in tortillas, stuffed in pita pockets, served over mixed greens for a low-carb option, or even scooped onto cucumber rounds or endive leaves as elegant appetizers.

→ Can I substitute or add other ingredients to this chicken salad?

Certainly! This chicken salad is very adaptable. You could substitute walnuts or sliced almonds for pecans, add diced apple or celery for extra crunch, include halved grapes for more sweetness, or mix in some diced avocado just before serving. Fresh herbs like dill or tarragon can also add wonderful flavor.

→ Is there a way to make this chicken salad lighter or dairy-free?

To make a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for some or all of the mayonnaise and sour cream. For a dairy-free option, use dairy-free mayonnaise and skip the sour cream or replace it with a dairy-free alternative. The honey can be substituted with maple syrup if preferred.

→ How far in advance can I prepare this salad for a party?

You can prepare this chicken salad up to 24 hours in advance. For the best texture, consider adding the pecans just before serving to maintain their crunch. If making ahead, store in the refrigerator and give a gentle stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.