Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Fresh and Healthy Dish

Looking for a fresh and healthy dish that’s easy to make? My Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is a perfect choice! Bursting with flavor and crunch, this salad combines tender chicken, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans. Whether you’re prepping a meal for lunch or a light dinner, this recipe checks all the boxes. Ready to dive in? Let’s grab those ingredients and get started!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

To make the cranberry pecan chicken salad, you need the following ingredients:

- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced

- 1 cup celery, diced

- 1 cup red grapes, halved

- 1/2 cup dried cranberries

- 1/2 cup pecans, roughly chopped

- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or mayonnaise

- 2 tablespoons honey

- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

- Fresh parsley, finely chopped, for garnish

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer, you can make some swaps in this recipe. Here are a few ideas:

- Use leftover rotisserie chicken instead of freshly cooked chicken.

- Replace Greek yogurt with sour cream for a different taste.

- Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds if needed.

- Use honey substitute or agave syrup if you want it vegan.

- Swap Dijon mustard with yellow mustard for a milder flavor.

Nutrition Facts per Serving

This salad is not just tasty; it's healthy too! Here’s a quick look at the nutrition facts per serving:

- Calories: Approximately 300

- Protein: 25g

- Carbohydrates: 20g

- Total Fat: 15g

- Fiber: 3g

- Sugar: 8g

This salad packs a flavorful punch while offering a good balance of protein and healthy fats!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

To start, gather your ingredients. You need two cups of cooked chicken, one cup of diced celery, and one cup of halved red grapes. Add half a cup of dried cranberries and half a cup of roughly chopped pecans. In a large mixing bowl, combine these ingredients. Gently mix them to ensure they are well blended. This step makes sure each bite is tasty and balanced.

Mixing the Dressing

Next, grab a small bowl for the dressing. Whisk together half a cup of Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise if you prefer), two tablespoons of honey, and one tablespoon of Dijon mustard. Add salt and black pepper to taste. Blend everything until smooth. This dressing adds a creamy and sweet touch to the salad.

Chilling the Salad

Once your salad and dressing are ready, pour the dressing over the chicken and vegetable mix. Use a spatula to toss everything together. Make sure all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing. Taste your salad and adjust the seasoning if needed. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This waiting time helps the flavors mix and deepen. Just before serving, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a bright finish.

Tips & Tricks

Ensuring Proper Seasoning

To make your salad shine, taste as you go. Start with salt and pepper. Mix them in slowly. Then, adjust according to your taste. If you want more sweetness, add a bit of honey. For tanginess, a dash more mustard works wonders. Always remember, the right balance makes a big difference.

Best Practices for Mixing

When you mix the salad, be gentle. You want to keep the grapes and pecans whole. Start with the chicken and veggies in one bowl. Add the dressing last. Use a spatula to fold everything together. This way, you coat all parts evenly. Don't rush this step; time spent mixing well pays off.

Presentation Tips for Serving

A beautiful dish makes food more enjoyable. Serve your salad in a big bowl. Surround it with crisp lettuce leaves. This adds color and freshness. For a final touch, sprinkle extra pecans and cranberries on top. It looks great and adds texture. Remember, we eat with our eyes first!

Variations

Alternative Ingredients (e.g., nuts, fruits)

You can change up the nuts in this salad. Try walnuts or almonds for a new flavor. If you want more sweetness, add chopped apples or pears. You can even swap in dried cherries instead of cranberries. Each change gives the salad a unique twist.

Dressing Modifications (Greek yogurt vs. mayonnaise)

I love using Greek yogurt in this recipe. It adds creaminess with fewer calories. If you prefer a richer taste, go for mayonnaise. You can also mix both for a balanced flavor. Adding a splash of lemon juice can brighten the dressing and enhance the taste.

Serving Suggestions (wraps, sandwiches, etc.)

This salad shines on its own, but it can do more! Serve it in a wrap for a quick lunch. You can spread it on bread to make a sandwich. For a lighter option, scoop it into lettuce leaves. Each serving style makes it fun and versatile!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To store leftover Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad, place it in an airtight container. Make sure to cover it well to keep air out. This helps the salad stay fresh. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. If you notice any change in smell or color, it's best to toss it out.

Freezing Recommendations

I do not recommend freezing this chicken salad. Freezing can change the texture of the chicken and grapes. The yogurt or mayonnaise can also separate, leading to an unappealing consistency. Enjoy this salad fresh for the best taste.

Reheating Tips

You do not need to reheat this salad. It tastes great cold and makes a refreshing meal. If you prefer it warm, gently heat the chicken only. Avoid heating the salad as a whole to maintain its fresh flavors and textures.

FAQs

Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?

Yes, you can use leftover rotisserie chicken. It adds great flavor and saves time. Shred or dice the chicken before mixing it in. This shortcut makes the salad even easier. Plus, it cuts down on waste and is super tasty.

How long does the salad last in the fridge?

The salad lasts about three to four days in the fridge. Make sure you store it in a sealed container. Over time, the ingredients may become soggy. To keep it fresh, add nuts just before serving.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can make it ahead and store it for the week. Just keep the dressing separate until you are ready to eat. This keeps everything crunchy and fresh.

What are some common allergens in this recipe?

Common allergens in this recipe include nuts and dairy. The pecans can cause issues for those with nut allergies. The Greek yogurt also contains dairy, so it may not suit lactose-intolerant individuals. Always check for allergies when serving to others.

This blog post covered everything you need for a great salad. We discussed key ingredients, substitutions, and nutrition facts. I shared step-by-step instructions to prepare, mix, and chill. I added tips for seasoning and presentation. You learned about variations to mix it up and how to store leftovers effectively.

Now you have the tools to create a tasty salad that fits your needs. Dive in and enjoy experimenting with different flavors and ingredients. Happy cooking!