Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing

HIGH-PROTEIN • LOW-CARB OPTION • CREAMY & CRUNCHY

Description

This Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is a delicious combination of tender chicken, crunchy toasted pecans, sweet-tart cranberries, crisp celery, and fresh parsley. Everything is tossed in a creamy homemade poppy seed dressing with a hint of tanginess and sweetness.

It’s easy to prepare, full of flavor, and perfect for a healthy lunch, meal prep, or a light dinner. Serve it over fresh greens, in lettuce cups, or enjoy it on its own!

Ingredients

For the Chicken Salad:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced

• ½ cup celery, finely chopped

• ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped

• ½ cup toasted pecans, chopped

• ¼ cup dried cranberries

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For the Poppy Seed Dressing:

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon poppy seeds

• 1 teaspoon erythritol or preferred sweetener

• Salt and black pepper to taste

For Serving:

• Mixed greens or lettuce

• Lemon wedges (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Cook the chicken breast if needed, allow it to cool, and shred or dice into bite-sized pieces.

2. Combine the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, add chicken, celery, red onion, toasted pecans, dried cranberries, and fresh parsley.

3. Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, sweetener, salt, and black pepper until creamy.

4. Mix Everything: Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.

5. Chill: Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

6. Serve: Spoon over fresh mixed greens or lettuce. Garnish with lemon wedges and extra pecans if desired.

Recipe Notes

• Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a convenient shortcut.

• Cranberries: Use unsweetened or reduced-sugar cranberries to lower added sugar.

• Pecans: Toasting the pecans enhances their natural nutty flavor.

• Dressing: Adjust the vinegar and sweetener to suit your taste.

• Texture: Add the pecans just before serving if you prefer them extra crunchy.

Helpful Tips

• Dice all ingredients into similar sizes for the best texture.

• Chill the salad before serving for a more developed flavor.

• For extra protein, add a little plain Greek yogurt to the dressing.

• Serve in lettuce cups for a low-carb meal.

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Servings & Preparation

Nutritional Information

Estimated per serving; values vary depending on mayonnaise, chicken, and cranberry brands.

Health Benefits

1. High in Protein: Chicken breast provides protein that supports muscle maintenance and helps keep you satisfied.

2. Healthy Fats: Pecans contain unsaturated fats that can support heart health when enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

3. Antioxidants: Cranberries and parsley provide beneficial plant compounds.

4. Fiber: Celery, pecans, and cranberries contribute dietary fiber that supports digestive health.

5. Low-Carb Friendly Option: Using unsweetened cranberries and a suitable low-carb sweetener can help reduce the carbohydrate content.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I make this chicken salad ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare it up to 24 hours ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Q2: Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves preparation time.

Q3: Can I replace pecans with another nut?

Yes. Walnuts or sliced almonds are good alternatives. You can also leave out the nuts if preferred.

Q4: Can I make the dressing healthier?

Yes! Replace part or all of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt for a lighter, protein-rich dressing.

Q5: Is this recipe keto-friendly?

It can be adapted for a lower-carb or keto-style diet by using unsweetened cranberries, a keto-friendly sweetener, and checking the dressing ingredients.

Q6: How long does it last in the refrigerator?

Store in an airtight container and enjoy within 3–4 days when properly refrigerated.

Q7: What can I serve with this chicken salad?

It pairs beautifully with lettuce wraps, cucumber slices, avocado, fresh greens, or whole-grain crackers.

Final Thoughts

This Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is proof that healthy meals don’t have to be boring! Every bite combines creamy dressing, juicy chicken, crunchy pecans, and sweet cranberries.

It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for meal prep or a refreshing family lunch.

Give it a try and make lunchtime delicious! ❤️