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chicken salad with cranberries and pecans

Chicken Salad with Cranberries and Pecans

This chicken salad with cranberries and pecans combines tender chicken, tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans, making it perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or as a standalone salad. It's a flavorful and filling dish that is both delicious and nutritious.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 436 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken: 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast (about 3 cups cooked and chopped)
  • Fresh and Dried Components:
  • 2 stalks celery chopped
  • 3/4 cup chopped Pink Lady apples
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans roasted with avocado oil and maple syrup
  • Dressing and Seasonings:
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 3 tablespoons fresh dill
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Chicken:
  • Bake the chicken at 450°F for 15-18 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  • Let it cool, then chop it into small pieces.
  • Mix the Ingredients:
  • In a large bowl, combine the chopped chicken, celery, onion, cranberries, and pecans.
  • Make the Dressing:
  • In a separate bowl, mix Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, fresh dill, salt, and pepper.
  • Combine & Chill:
  • Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir well.
  • Let it chill for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavors.
  • Serve & Enjoy:
  • Serve on a bed of lettuce, in sandwiches, or with crackers.

Notes

  • Storage: Keeps for 3-5 days in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
  • Variations:
    • Swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
    • Use plant-based mayo for a dairy-free option.
    • Reduce cranberries for a low-carb version.
  • Pro Tip: Toasting pecans for 4-6 minutes enhances their crunch.
Keyword Chicken salad, Cranberry pecan chicken salad, Healthy chicken salad, Meal prep chicken salad