Savor the Taste of Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad: A Delicious Recipe

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Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing

This Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, featuring tender chicken, crunchy pecans, chewy cranberries, and the refreshing crunch of green onions—all enveloped in a sweet and tangy dressing. Create this nutritious and flavorful salad to elevate your dining experience.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe provides a quick, healthy meal option that is perfect for lunch or a gathering. It balances sweetness and crunch, while the chicken adds protein, making it both satisfying and nutritious.

How to Make Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Ingredients:

For the Dressing:

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

For the Salad:

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

Directions:

Prepare the Poppy Seed Dressing:

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, softened honey, Dijon mustard, and poppy seeds until smooth. Season with salt to taste. Set aside.

Assemble the Salad:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped chicken, pecans, cranberries, and green onions. Toss gently to mix.

Dress the Salad:

  1. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently until everything is evenly coated. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Chill and Serve:

  1. For optimal flavor, cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This step is optional but recommended.
  2. Serve chilled, either on its own or over a bed of mixed greens for a refreshing meal.

How to Serve Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

This salad can be enjoyed on its own, as a delicious side dish, or served atop mixed greens for a heartier meal. It pairs beautifully with fresh bread or crackers.

How to Store Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Stir well before serving again, as the dressing may thicken over time.

Tips for Making Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

For added flavor, consider toasting the pecans before mixing them into the salad. You can also customize the recipe by adding chopped apples or celery for extra crunch.

Variations

Experiment by swapping out the chicken for tuna or cooked shrimp, or use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter option. The salad can also be made vegetarian by omitting the protein and adding more vegetables.

FAQs

1. Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dressing up to two days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before using.

2. Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this salad are naturally gluten-free, but always check your labels to ensure no gluten has been added.

3. How can I make this salad dairy-free?

To make this salad dairy-free, use dairy-free mayonnaise and omit sour cream, or replace it with a dairy-free yogurt alternative.

Indulge in the rich flavors and wholesome goodness of our Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing. This versatile dish is certain to impress, whether enjoyed as a quick lunch or as a stunning addition to your next gathering.

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