Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing
Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and creamy, making it an ideal dish for lunch, dinner, or even a light snack. Packed with lean chicken, crunchy pecans, and juicy cranberries, this salad is not only delicious but also nutritious. The homemade poppy seed dressing ties everything together, creating a dish that’s bursting with flavor in every bite.
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, hosting a brunch, or just looking for a refreshing salad, this recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into how you can make this tasty and vibrant salad!
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup toasted pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/2 small red onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup diced apple (optional for extra sweetness and crunch)
For the Poppy Seed Dressing:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream for a richer texture)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
- 1 tbsp honey (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp poppy seeds
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken Salad:In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken breast, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, celery, and red onion (if using). If you're adding apple, include that as well. Toss everything together to evenly mix.
Make the Poppy Seed Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Combine the Salad and Dressing:
Pour the poppy seed dressing over the chicken mixture and toss until everything is coated evenly. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or honey as desired.
Chill (Optional but Recommended):
For the best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the dressing to soak into the ingredients, enhancing the taste.
Serve:
Serve your cranberry pecan chicken salad on a bed of fresh greens, in a sandwich, or with crackers. It also works beautifully as a topping for a salad or wrapped in a tortilla.
Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is a versatile, easy-to-make dish that balances sweetness and savory goodness. With tender chicken, tangy cranberries, and crunchy pecans, all tossed in a creamy poppy seed dressing, it’s a meal that’s both satisfying and healthy. Whether you're preparing a light lunch, serving it at a gathering, or packing it for a picnic, this salad will surely become a go-to favorite. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and make this refreshing dish part of your regular meal rotation !