Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

This cranberry pecan chicken salad is creamy, sweet, and crunchy—a comforting, prep-ahead dish perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or lettuce cups. A quick meal that's flavorful and family-friendly.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 0

Chill Time 30

Total Time 45

Course Lunch, Meal Prep, Salad

Cuisine American

Servings servings

Calories 360 kcal

Equipment

Mixing Bowl
Skillet

Ingredients

Core Ingredients

3 cups cooked chicken shredded or chopped
0.5 cup mayonnaise or plain Greek yogurt for lighter option
0.33 cup dried cranberries
0.5 cup chopped pecans toasted for best flavor
2 celery ribs finely diced
1 green onion thinly sliced
1 tsp Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Swaps

Walnuts or almonds as a substitute for pecans
Diced apples or red grapes for extra sweetness and crunch
Fresh herbs like dill or parsley for freshness

Instructions

Chop or shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time.
Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes, stirring often until fragrant. Let cool.
In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Add the chicken, celery, cranberries, pecans, and green onion to the bowl. Fold gently until well combined and coated in dressing.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy in sandwiches, lettuce wraps, croissants, or on crackers.

Notes

This salad is best enjoyed chilled and can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Not freezer-friendly due to mayonnaise and fresh produce texture changes.

Nutrition

Calories: 360kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 28gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 390mgPotassium: 440mgFiber: 2gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 35mgIron: 1.3mg

Keyword chicken salad, Cranberry, healthy lunch

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