Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad – A Festive & Flavorful Recipe You’ll Love

Finding a dish that’s as perfect for a cozy weekday lunch as it is for a festive holiday spread isn’t easy, but Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad hits that sweet spot. With its mix of tender chicken, tart dried cranberries, crunchy pecans, and creamy dressing, it delivers balanced flavor in every bite. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, hosting a casual brunch, or preparing for a holiday gathering, this salad fits the bill. Learn more about festive salads in our Christmas Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing.

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Why Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is a Must-Try

Perfect Balance of Flavors

What makes this chicken salad irresistible is its harmony of textures and tastes. The sweet-tart burst of cranberries pairs beautifully with the buttery crunch of pecans, while juicy, tender chicken ties everything together. The dressing—creamy, tangy, and lightly seasoned—completes the flavor profile without overpowering it.

Ideal for Meal Prep & Gatherings

This salad is as convenient as it is delicious. Make a batch on Sunday and you’ve got lunch covered for several days—just store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and it will stay fresh for up to four days. It’s also a star player on a buffet table, whether served in mini croissants, lettuce cups, or alongside crackers for easy scooping.

A Healthy & Protein-Packed Choice

Using a blend of mayonnaise and Greek yogurt keeps the dressing rich but lighter than traditional versions. The yogurt not only cuts fat but also boosts protein content, making this a satisfying, nutrient-dense option. Plus, it’s easily adaptable for lower-sugar or nut-free diets by swapping in reduced-sugar dried cranberries or sunflower seeds.

Ingredients You’ll Need for the Best Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—you probably have most of the ingredients in your kitchen already. Here’s everything you’ll need to bring it to life.

Chicken Choices

You can’t go wrong with boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but this salad is forgiving enough to handle other cuts or cooking methods. Use baked, poached, or grilled chicken for a homemade touch, or save time with a store-bought rotisserie chicken. For a richer flavor, you can even use chicken thighs—just be sure to remove the skin and shred the meat.

Fresh & Flavorful Add-ins

• Celery: Adds crisp texture that breaks up the creaminess.
• Red Onion or Yellow Onion: Finely diced for a touch of sharpness. If you prefer a milder flavor, soak the onion in cold water for 5–10 minutes before adding it to the mix.
• Dried Cranberries: A pop of sweetness that complements the savory base. For a healthier twist, opt for reduced-sugar cranberries.
• Pecans: Toasted for extra flavor and crunch. You can substitute with walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds if needed.

The Creamy Dressing

Balancing flavor and nutrition is key here. A mix of mayonnaise and plain Greek yogurt gives you that classic richness without being too heavy. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors, and a pinch of salt and pepper ties it all together.

Ingredient Table with Substitutions

Ingredient	Amount	Substitutions/Notes
Chicken breast (cooked, shredded)	2 large	Use thighs or rotisserie chicken
Celery (diced)	2 stalks	Can use cucumber for a milder crunch
Red onion (chopped)	½ cup	Yellow onion or green onion
Dried cranberries	½ cup	Dried cherries, raisins, or chopped dried dates
Chopped pecans	½ cup	Walnuts, almonds, sunflower seeds
Mayonnaise	¾ cup	Substitute with light mayo
Plain Greek yogurt	½ cup	Dairy-free yogurt or additional mayo
Lemon juice	2 tbsp	Apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar
Salt	⅛ tsp	Omit for low-sodium diet
Black pepper	⅛ tsp	White pepper or omit

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Cooking and Shredding the Chicken

If cooking from scratch, season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then bake at 375°F for 18–20 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let it rest for a few minutes, then shred using two forks or a stand mixer with a paddle attachment.

Mixing the Perfect Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy.

Combining and Serving

Add shredded chicken, diced celery, onions, cranberries, and pecans to the dressing. Stir gently until all ingredients are evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.

Variations & Substitutions to Fit Your Diet

Dairy-Free and Nut-Free Options

Swap Greek yogurt for a thick, unsweetened plant-based yogurt. Replace pecans with pumpkin or sunflower seeds for crunch.

Low-Carb and Gluten-Free Serving Ideas

Spoon onto lettuce leaves, fill cucumber boats, or serve with low-carb crackers.

Seasonal Ingredient Twists

In fall, try dried cherries or chopped apples instead of cranberries. In summer, use fresh blueberries for a lighter twist.

Serving Ideas & Pairings

For Lunchboxes & Picnics

Pack this chicken salad into whole-wheat wraps or sandwich it between slices of crusty bread. For a no-mess option, pair it with crackers or serve in reusable containers with a fork. It’s a quick, satisfying lunch that’s easy to transport.

Holiday Buffet Style

For festive gatherings, serve the salad in lettuce cups, mini croissants, or as part of a DIY sandwich bar. Don’t miss our Christmas Cranberry Roll Ups Recipe for another holiday favorite.

Side Dish Pairings

Pair with a fresh green salad, fruit salad, or roasted vegetables. For a warm side, check out our Rosemary Infused Roast Potatoes.

Expert Tips for the Best Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

• Toast the Pecans: A few minutes in a dry skillet brings out deeper, nuttier flavors.
• Soak the Onions: For milder onion flavor, soak chopped onion in cold water for 5–10 minutes.
• Chill Before Serving: This allows flavors to blend and gives the salad a refreshing taste.
• Cut Ingredients Evenly: Uniform chopping ensures you get a bit of everything in each bite.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or adding a colorful touch to your holiday table, Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad delivers both flavor and versatility. It’s the kind of dish you’ll make once and keep coming back to, thanks to its balance of sweet, savory, and creamy elements. Don’t miss our Maple Roasted Carrots with Cranberries for another festive side that complements this salad perfectly.

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