Servings

6 servings

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

0 minutes (if using pre-cooked chicken)

Total Time

15 minutes

Ingredients

For the Chicken Salad

• 3 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded (about 1 lb / 450 g)
• ¾ cup dried cranberries, chopped if large
• ¾ cup pecans, roughly chopped and lightly toasted
• 2 celery stalks, finely diced
• ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

For the Dressing

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon honey
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)

Instructions

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

1. Heat a dry skillet over medium heat.
2. Add pecans and toast for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Remove and cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together:
   • Mayonnaise
   • Greek yogurt
   • Dijon mustard
   • Lemon juice
   • Honey
   • Garlic powder
   • Salt and pepper
2. Mix until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl combine:
   • Chicken
   • Cranberries
   • Pecans
   • Celery
   • Red onion
   • Parsley
2. Add dressing and stir gently until evenly coated.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

1. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Serve chilled.

Nutrition Information

Per Serving (Approximate)

Values are estimates and vary by ingredients used.

Nutrition Breakdown by Ingredient

Chicken Breast (3 cups)

• Excellent source of lean protein
• Rich in niacin, selenium, phosphorus, and vitamin B6

Dried Cranberries

• Provide antioxidants called polyphenols
• Add natural sweetness and fiber
• Contain vitamin C (small amounts)

Pecans

• Rich in healthy monounsaturated fats
• Good source of manganese, copper, and magnesium
• Provide plant-based antioxidants

Greek Yogurt

• Adds protein and calcium
• Reduces the amount of mayonnaise needed

Celery

• Low-calorie source of fiber
• Adds crunch and hydration

Allergen Information

 Contains:

• Tree nuts (pecans)
• Eggs (if using traditional mayonnaise)
• Dairy (Greek yogurt)

Nut-Free Version

Replace pecans with:

• Roasted sunflower seeds
• Pumpkin seeds
• Chopped water chestnuts

Dairy-Free Version

Replace Greek yogurt with:

• Dairy-free yogurt
• Additional mayonnaise

Egg-Free Version

Use:

• Egg-free mayonnaise

Health Benefits

High Protein

Provides about 28 grams of protein per serving, supporting muscle maintenance and satiety.

Heart-Healthy Fats

Pecans contain monounsaturated fats associated with cardiovascular health.

Antioxidant Rich

Cranberries and pecans provide antioxidant compounds that help combat oxidative stress.

Meal-Prep Friendly

Keeps well and can be portioned for easy lunches.

Serving Ideas

Sandwich

Serve on:

• Whole wheat bread
• Croissants
• Brioche buns

Wrap

Roll into:

• Tortillas
• Lavash bread
• Spinach wraps

Low-Carb

Serve in:

• Lettuce cups
• Cucumber boats
• Bell pepper halves

Salad Plate

Serve over:

• Mixed greens
• Baby spinach
• Arugula

Storage Information

Refrigerator

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps fresh for 3–4 days.

Freezer

Not recommended. The dressing may separate and the vegetables lose texture after thawing.

Recipe Variations

Apple Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Add:

• 1 diced crisp apple

Mediterranean Version

Add:

• Cucumber
• Feta cheese
• Fresh dill

Sweet & Savory Version

Add:

• Seedless grapes
• Chopped walnuts

Extra Crunch Version

Add:

• Sliced almonds
• Chopped celery leaves

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes. Rotisserie chicken adds flavor and saves preparation time.

Q: Can I make it ahead?

Absolutely. Many people find the flavor improves after a few hours in the refrigerator.

Q: Can I use canned chicken?

Yes, though freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken provides a better texture.

Q: How do I reduce calories?

Use:

• Light mayonnaise
• More Greek yogurt
• Extra celery for volume

Q: Can I substitute walnuts for pecans?

Yes. Walnuts, almonds, or cashews work well.

Q: Is this keto-friendly?

Not fully, because dried cranberries contain sugars. For a lower-carb version, reduce or omit cranberries.

Q: Why toast the pecans?

Toasting enhances flavor, aroma, and crunch.

Q: How do I keep the salad from becoming watery?

Pat chicken dry, drain ingredients well, and avoid overmixing.

Q: Can children eat this recipe?

Yes. For younger children, chop ingredients into smaller pieces and omit raw onion if preferred.

Q: What is the best chicken to use?

Boneless, skinless chicken breast is the leanest option, but chicken thighs provide a richer flavor.

Expert Tips

• Chill for 30–60 minutes before serving to allow flavors to blend.
• Toast pecans just until fragrant; overtoasting can make them bitter.
• Finely dice celery and onions for a balanced texture.
• Add a squeeze of fresh lemon just before serving to brighten flavors.
• For entertaining, serve in mini croissants or lettuce cups for an elegant presentation.