Oh my goodness, if you’re looking for a salad that just screams freshness and flavor, you have to try this cranberry apple pecan chicken salad! It’s like a burst of autumn in every bite, with the tartness of cranberries, crunchy pecans, and juicy apples dancing together with tender chicken. I remember the first time I made this salad for a picnic; everyone was raving about it! It’s such a wonderful mix of textures and tastes—sweet, nutty, and savory all at once. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it my go-to for quick lunches or light dinners. Trust me, once you toss this together and let it chill, you’ll be hooked on its refreshing goodness. Perfect for meal prep too—just keep it in the fridge for those busy days ahead!

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delightful cranberry apple pecan chicken salad. I promise, these ingredients come together to create a harmony of flavors that you won’t want to miss!

2 cups cooked chicken, diced
1 cup cranberries, dried
1 apple, diced (I love using a tart variety like Granny Smith!)
1/2 cup pecans, chopped
1/2 cup celery, chopped (for that nice crunch!)
1/2 cup Greek yogurt (you can use plain or flavored, depending on your taste)
1 tablespoon honey (adjust to your sweetness preference)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best!)

How to Prepare Cranberry Apple Pecan Chicken Salad

Alright, let’s get to the fun part—making this delicious salad! I promise, it’s super simple and totally rewarding. Just follow these steps and you’ll be enjoying a refreshing bowl of goodness in no time!

Step 1: Combine the Chicken and Fruits

First things first, grab a large mixing bowl and toss in the diced chicken. Next, add in the dried cranberries, diced apple, chopped pecans, and crunchy celery. Just imagine the colors and textures coming together—it’s a feast for the eyes already! Gently mix everything together, making sure all those yummy ingredients are well distributed. It’s like a beautiful autumn harvest in your bowl!

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

Now, let’s whip up that creamy dressing! In a separate bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, honey, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. I like to use a whisk for this part—it makes it super smooth! Taste it and see if you want to adjust the sweetness; it’s all about your preference. The dressing should have a nice tangy sweetness that complements the salad perfectly.

Step 3: Mix and Chill

Pour that luscious dressing over the chicken mixture and gently toss everything together until it’s all coated in that creamy goodness. It’s a little messy, but that’s where the magic happens! Once it’s all combined, cover the bowl and pop it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This chilling time lets all those flavors meld together beautifully. Plus, it’s refreshing and cool when you’re ready to serve—you won’t regret it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just about 15 minutes! Perfect for those busy weeknights or when unexpected guests drop by.
Refreshing Flavor: The combination of tart cranberries, crisp apples, and crunchy pecans creates a delightful mix that’s bursting with flavor.
Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein from the chicken and healthy fats from the nuts, this salad is as nourishing as it is delicious.
Versatile: Enjoy it on its own, on a bed of greens, or as a filling for sandwiches. It’s super adaptable to suit your taste!
Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store it in the fridge for quick lunches throughout the week—just grab and go!
Kid-Friendly: The sweet and crunchy elements are a hit with kids, making it an easy way to sneak in some healthy ingredients.

Tips for Success

To make sure your cranberry apple pecan chicken salad turns out perfectly, here are a few tips I’ve learned along the way! First, use quality ingredients—fresh chicken and crisp apples really elevate the flavor. I find that using roasted chicken adds a nice depth, but shredded rotisserie chicken works just as well for a time-saving hack.

When it comes to the cranberries, dried ones are perfect for a chewiness that balances the crunch of the pecans. If you want an extra pop of flavor, consider toasting the pecans lightly before adding them to the salad. Just keep an eye on them; they can go from perfectly toasted to burnt in a flash!

Lastly, don’t skip the chilling step! Allowing the salad to rest in the fridge helps all those delicious flavors mingle and become even more vibrant. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Nutritional Information Section

When it comes to enjoying your cranberry apple pecan chicken salad, it’s always good to have an idea of the nutritional benefits! Please keep in mind that nutrition can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these values are approximate.

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 320
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 150mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 12g
Protein: 20g

This salad packs a nutritious punch, combining lean protein with healthy fats and fiber, making it a fantastic choice for a light meal or a hearty snack!

FAQ Section

Can I substitute the chicken with something else?
Absolutely! If you want a vegetarian option, you can replace the chicken with chickpeas or even tofu. Both give a nice texture and soak up the delicious flavors of the salad.

How long can I store the cranberry apple pecan chicken salad?
This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3 days. Just keep in mind that the longer it sits, the crunchiness of the pecans might soften a bit.

What else can I add to this salad?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! You could add some feta cheese for a tangy kick, or toss in some diced avocado for creaminess. If you like a bit of spice, some diced jalapeños could bring an exciting twist!

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, making it a few hours in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to keep the salad chilled until you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve alongside this salad?
This salad pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side of roasted vegetables. It’s also great as a filling for wraps or sandwiches for a more substantial meal!

Serving Suggestions

Looking for the perfect pairings to elevate your cranberry apple pecan chicken salad? You’re in luck! This salad is not only delicious on its own, but it also shines when served alongside a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas that will make your meal even more delightful!

Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or some homemade rolls are perfect for scooping up this salad or enjoying on the side. It adds a nice, hearty touch!
Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted seasonal vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or sweet potatoes complement the salad beautifully and add a lovely warmth to your meal.
Fruit Platter: For a refreshing contrast, serve a colorful platter of fresh fruit like grapes, melon, or berries. It’ll enhance the sweetness of the cranberries and apples in the salad!
Cheese Board: Create a simple cheese board with a selection of cheeses, nuts, and crackers. The creamy textures and flavors will harmonize nicely with the salad.
Light Soup: A light soup, such as a butternut squash or a tomato basil soup, can be a comforting addition. It makes for a cozy, satisfying meal!
Picnic Favorite: This salad is also a fantastic choice for picnics or potlucks—just pack it in a cooler with some chips or pita bread for a complete spread!

These suggestions will not only enhance your dining experience but also make your meal feel special for any occasion, whether it’s a casual lunch, a hearty dinner, or a festive gathering with friends. Enjoy your culinary creations!

For more delicious recipes, check out our all recipes page!

For a great side dish, consider making honey glazed carrots to complement this salad!

And if you’re looking for a tasty dessert, try our no-bake strawberry cheesecake cups!

Cranberry Apple Pecan Chicken Salad: 5 Fresh Ways to Enjoy

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Salad
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

A refreshing salad with chicken, cranberries, apples, and pecans.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups cooked chicken, diced
1 cup cranberries
1 apple, diced
1/2 cup pecans, chopped
1/2 cup celery, chopped
1/2 cup Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

In a bowl, combine chicken, cranberries, apple, pecans, and celery.
In a separate bowl, mix Greek yogurt, honey, and lemon juice.
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture.
Toss until well combined.
Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving.

Notes

Serve on a bed of greens for added crunch.
Can substitute walnuts for pecans.
Adjust sweetness by adding more or less honey.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 320
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: cranberry apple pecan chicken salad

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