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Delicious Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

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Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is a fresh and vibrant dish that combines tender chicken, crunchy pecans, sweet-tart cranberries, and a creamy dressing. Perfect for a light lunch, picnic, or even as a side at dinner, this salad balances flavors and textures in every bite.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, chopped or shredded

1/2 cup dried cranberries

1/2 cup pecans, chopped and toasted

1/4 cup celery, chopped

1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

1/2 cup mayonnaise

1/4 cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream)

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon honey

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken by either cooking and shredding it or using pre-cooked chicken for convenience.
  2. Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and slightly browned. Let them cool before chopping.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken, cranberries, chopped pecans, celery, and red onion.
  4. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), Dijon mustard, and honey until smooth and well combined.
  5. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss gently until evenly coated.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Notes

  • Add fruits like diced apples or grapes for sweetness and texture.
  • For a low-carb version, skip the mayonnaise and use Greek yogurt with a sugar-free dressing.
  • Serve on a bed of mixed greens or spinach for a refreshing twist.
  • Use walnuts or almonds instead of pecans for a different flavor profile.
  • Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the dressing for some heat.

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