Cranberry Chicken Salad with Pecans for Sandwiches

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cranberry chicken salad with pecans is the perfect combination of flavors and textures. The sweetness of the dried cranberries pairs beautifully with the savory, juicy chicken, while the pecans add a satisfying crunch. The creamy dressing ties it all together, creating a smooth and flavorful base that coats every bite. It’s an easy, make-ahead meal that’s perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or even served over a bed of greens.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or chopped)

• 1/2 cup dried cranberries

• 1/2 cup chopped pecans

• 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped

• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon honey

• Salt and pepper, to taste

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

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, celery, and red onion.

2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.

3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until all ingredients are evenly coated.

4. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or honey to your preference.

5. Refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

6. Serve the salad on your favorite bread, in a wrap, or over a salad bed for a lighter option.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6 servings

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes

• Chill Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Add fresh herbs: Try adding chopped parsley, dill, or thyme to enhance the flavor.

• Make it a lighter version: Substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a tangy twist and fewer calories.

• Use different nuts: Walnuts, almonds, or cashews work well if you prefer a different nut to pecans.

• Use fresh chicken: For an even fresher taste, cook chicken breast and chop or shred it yourself instead of using pre-cooked chicken.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover cranberry chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: This dish is best served cold, so there is no need to reheat. If you plan to serve it warm, you can lightly toast the sandwich bread for a warm, crispy touch.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?

Yes, canned chicken can be used in place of cooked fresh chicken for convenience, though fresh chicken will provide a better texture and flavor.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this chicken salad can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together.

3. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you serve it on gluten-free bread or in a lettuce wrap, this cranberry chicken salad is gluten-free.

4. Can I substitute the pecans with another nut?

Definitely! If you’re not a fan of pecans, you can substitute walnuts, almonds, or cashews for a different flavor.

5. How can I make the dressing healthier?

You can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter and tangier dressing. You can also use a low-fat mayonnaise for a healthier option.

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

Fresh cranberries might be too tart for this recipe, but you could cook them with a little sugar to make a cranberry sauce or use them in combination with dried cranberries for a more balanced flavor.

7. Can I serve this cranberry chicken salad as a dip?

Yes, this salad works well as a dip when served with crackers, sliced vegetables, or pita chips.

8. How do I make this recipe spicier?

To add some heat, try adding a bit of finely chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing.

9. Can I add other fruits to this chicken salad?

Yes! You could add diced apples, grapes, or sliced strawberries for a sweet, fruity twist.

10. What type of bread is best for serving this chicken salad?

This salad is versatile and can be served on any type of bread, but it pairs particularly well with croissants, whole-grain bread, or a soft sandwich roll.

Conclusion

Cranberry chicken salad with pecans is a versatile and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a lunch, picnic, or dinner, its sweet and savory flavors will keep everyone coming back for more. With easy-to-find ingredients and plenty of room for customization, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.