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Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

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Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is a fresh and flavorful dish featuring tender shredded chicken, sweet dried cranberries, crunchy toasted pecans, and crisp celery. Bound together with a creamy mayonnaise dressing, this salad makes a perfect lunch, picnic option, or light dinner!

Ingredients

3 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)

½ cup dried cranberries

½ cup chopped celery

½ cup chopped pecans, toasted

1 ½ cups mayonnaise

2 tbsp lemon juice

2 tbsp sugar

½ tsp salt

¼ tsp black pepper

Tip: Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor and adds an extra layer of depth.

Instructions

  • Prepare Chicken: If not using pre-cooked chicken, cook chicken breasts until fully cooked, then shred them using two forks.

  • Toast Pecans: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the chopped pecans until golden brown, stirring frequently. Let them cool.

  • Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, dried cranberries, chopped celery, and toasted pecans.

  • Prepare Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and black pepper until smooth.

  • Mix Salad: Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss until all ingredients are well coated.

  • Chill: Cover and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.

  • Serve: Serve chilled on croissants, bread, or with crackers.

Notes

Greek Yogurt Substitute: Replace half or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

Add Grapes: Incorporate halved red or green grapes for extra sweetness and color.

Spicy Kick: Mix in a diced jalapeño pepper for subtle heat.

Herb Infusion: Add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill for an aromatic boost.

Vegan Version: Use plant-based mayonnaise and substitute chicken with shredded jackfruit or tofu.

Find it online: https://chocolatecoveredamy.com/cranberry-pecan-chicken-salad/