Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is a flavorful, crunchy, and refreshing salad that combines tender chicken, tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans with a creamy, slightly sweet poppy seed dressing. This salad is perfect for lunch, a light dinner, or as a side dish for any occasion. It’s packed with textures and flavors, making it both satisfying and delicious. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it on a sunny afternoon, this salad is sure to please.
Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad
- Total Time: 49 minute
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A sweet and savory chicken salad featuring tender chicken, dried cranberries, crunchy pecans, and a creamy poppy seed dressing. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, poppy seeds, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth. Set aside.
- Prepare the salad: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, mixed greens, and red onion.
- Add the dressing: Drizzle the poppy seed dressing over the salad and toss to coat evenly.
- Serve: Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to eat. Add crumbled feta cheese if desired.
Notes
- Add-ins: Try adding sliced apples, grapes, or celery for extra crunch and sweetness.
- Make it a meal: Serve the salad over a bed of greens or in a wrap for a complete meal.
- Storage: Store leftover salad in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: None (using cooked chicken)
- Category: Salad
- Method: Tossing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
Keywords: Chicken Salad with Cranberries and Pecans, Poppy Seed Chicken Salad, Sweet Chicken Salad Recipe
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Salad
This chicken salad offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors. The dried cranberries bring a natural sweetness and chewiness, while the pecans add a nutty crunch. Combined with tender chicken and crisp greens, this salad is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. The creamy poppy seed dressing ties everything together, adding a sweet, tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is ideal for meal prep. You can cook the chicken ahead of time, chop the ingredients, and make the poppy seed dressing in advance. Simply assemble the salad when you’re ready to eat, and you’ll have a fresh and delicious meal in minutes. It stores well in the fridge, making it a convenient option for busy weekdays.
The Star of Potlucks and Gatherings
This salad is a hit at potlucks, picnics, and family gatherings. Its vibrant colors and mix of flavors make it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s easy to make in large quantities, so it’s perfect for serving a crowd. The combination of juicy chicken, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans makes this salad a standout dish that’s sure to impress.
A Healthy and Nutritious Option
Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is packed with protein from the chicken and healthy fats from the pecans. The cranberries add a boost of antioxidants, while the mixed greens provide fiber and essential vitamins. This salad is not only delicious but also a wholesome choice for a balanced meal.
How to Choose the Best Ingredients
For the best flavor, use high-quality, fresh ingredients. Opt for tender, juicy chicken breasts, preferably grilled or roasted for added flavor. Choose dried cranberries that are sweet but not overly sugary, and use fresh pecans for the best crunch. The poppy seed dressing can be made at home for the freshest taste, or you can use your favorite store-bought version.
How to Make the Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing
The poppy seed dressing is the star of this salad. It’s creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet, making it the perfect complement to the savory chicken and crunchy pecans. To make the dressing, simply whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, poppy seeds, and a touch of Dijon mustard for extra flavor.
A Versatile Salad for Any Occasion
This salad is incredibly versatile. You can serve it on a bed of mixed greens, in a sandwich, or even in a wrap for a quick lunch on the go. The combination of flavors and textures makes it suitable for a variety of dishes, so you can enjoy it in different ways.
How to Add Extra Flavor
If you want to enhance the flavors even more, try adding some crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese for a tangy kick. You can also add sliced apples or grapes for a touch of fresh sweetness. The salad is highly customizable, allowing you to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
A Salad That’s Perfect for Any Season
While Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is especially popular in the fall, it’s a versatile salad that can be enjoyed year-round. The combination of sweet cranberries and crunchy pecans adds a cozy, autumnal touch, while the light and creamy poppy seed dressing makes it refreshing enough for summer. It’s a dish that brings comfort and freshness to the table no matter the season.
Why Poppy Seed Dressing Works So Well
The creamy poppy seed dressing is the key to this salad’s delightful flavor. The slight sweetness from the sugar, the tanginess from the vinegar, and the creamy richness from the mayonnaise blend perfectly with the savory chicken and sweet cranberries. The poppy seeds add a slight nuttiness and a nice texture to the dressing, making it stand out from other salad dressings.
A Quick and Easy Recipe
One of the best things about this salad is how quickly it comes together. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation, you can have a delicious meal ready in about 15 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or whenever you’re craving something flavorful and fresh without spending hours in the kitchen.
How to Add More Protein to the Salad
If you want to make this salad even more protein-rich, consider adding hard-boiled eggs, chickpeas, or a sprinkle of sunflower seeds. These additions can increase the protein content while adding more texture and flavor to the salad.
Why Cranberries Add the Perfect Sweetness
The dried cranberries in this salad provide a natural sweetness that complements the savory elements. They add a chewy texture that contrasts with the crunchy pecans and crisp greens. If you prefer less sweetness, you can use unsweetened dried cranberries or reduce the quantity.
A Delicious Way to Use Leftover Chicken
If you have leftover rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken, or even poached chicken from a previous meal, this salad is a great way to use it up. The salad works with both warm and chilled chicken, making it a flexible option for any time of year.
How to Serve This Salad
This salad can be served in a variety of ways. Enjoy it over a bed of greens, as a filling for sandwiches or wraps, or even as a topping for a baked sweet potato. Its versatility makes it easy to incorporate into different meals, making it an excellent addition to your weekly menu.
A Great Salad for Entertaining
If you’re hosting a gathering or picnic, this Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is an ideal dish to serve. It’s colorful, flavorful, and can be made in advance, allowing you to spend more time with your guests and less time in the kitchen.
Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and creamy flavors, making it a standout salad for any meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, meal prep, or a holiday gathering, this salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With its simple preparation and delicious flavors, it’s a recipe you’ll return to time and again.
Conclusion: A Sweet and Savory Salad for All Seasons
Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is a delightful mix of flavors and textures that’s sure to become a favorite. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a potluck, or meal prepping for the week, this salad offers both convenience and deliciousness. The sweet cranberries, crunchy pecans, and creamy dressing make every bite a treat, while the tender chicken and mixed greens provide a satisfying meal.
FAQs for Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing
1. Can I use rotisserie chicken in this salad?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works well in this recipe. It’s a convenient option that adds a smoky flavor to the salad.
2. Can I substitute the pecans with other nuts?
Absolutely! You can use walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a different flavor and crunch.
3. How long will this salad last in the fridge?
The salad will keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Add the dressing just before serving for the best texture.
4. Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, the poppy seed dressing can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using.
5. Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free, as long as all the ingredients, including the dressing, are free from gluten.