Looking for a delicious and healthy chicken salad recipe? This Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is a fantastic choice. It’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Cooked Chicken Breast: You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Mayonnaise: Greek yogurt or a lighter mayo alternative works well.
- Dried Cranberries: Swap with other dried fruits like chopped apricots or cherries.
- Pecans: Walnuts or almonds are good substitutes.
- Celery: Adds a lovely crunch; omit if you prefer.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 1 stalk celery, finely diced
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (if using pre-cooked chicken)
- Servings: 4
- Tools Needed: Large mixing bowl, cutting board, knife.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Chicken
Ensure your chicken is cooked and cooled. Shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces, whichever you prefer for your healthy chicken salad. Place the chicken in a large mixing bowl.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard (if using). This helps create a smooth and flavorful dressing for your healthy chicken salad.
3. Add Other Ingredients
To the bowl with the chicken, add the dried cranberries, chopped pecans, and finely diced celery. If using, add the chopped fresh chives for extra flavor.
4. Mix Everything Together
Pour the mayonnaise mixture over the chicken and other ingredients. Gently fold everything together until all components are evenly coated.
5. Season and Serve
Season your Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with salt and black pepper to your liking. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve immediately or chill for later enjoyment.
Variation Ideas:
- Add a touch of lemon zest for brightness.
- Include a spoonful of poppy seeds for texture.
- Mix in some shredded carrots for added color and nutrients.
- Serve it in lettuce cups for a low-carb option.
Storage Instructions:
Store your Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This healthy chicken salad recipe is best enjoyed chilled. Do not freeze, as the texture of the mayonnaise and other ingredients will change.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?
A: Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier healthy chicken salad.
Q: How do I cook the chicken if I don’t have pre-cooked?
A: You can boil, bake, or pan-fry chicken breasts until they are cooked through and then shred or dice them.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This healthy chicken salad recipe is great for meal prep and often tastes even better the next day.
Q: What are good serving suggestions?
A: Serve it on whole-wheat bread, crackers, in a lettuce wrap, or over a bed of mixed greens for a complete meal.
Q: Are there any other nuts I can use?
A: Walnuts or sliced almonds are excellent alternatives to pecans in this healthy chicken salad.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, as long as you serve it with gluten-free options like lettuce wraps or gluten-free crackers, this healthy chicken salad is naturally gluten-free.