If you’re searching for a fresh, vibrant salad that combines sweet, crunchy, and tangy flavors in every bite, look no further than the Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe. This dish is a celebration of textures and tastes—juicy chicken breast mingles with tart dried cranberries and crunchy pecans, all brought together by a luscious, slightly sweet poppy seed dressing. It’s perfect for a quick lunch, a potluck favorite, or an elegant light dinner that feels both comforting and special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple, wholesome ingredients are the foundation of the Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe. Each element contributes distinct texture, flavor, and freshness, making the finished salad a harmonious mix that’s hard to resist.
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped or shredded: This lean protein forms the hearty base of the salad, providing substance and richness.
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries: These add a sweet-tart burst with chewy texture, brightening the flavor profile.
- 1/3 cup chopped pecans: Pecan pieces offer a buttery crunch that perfectly offsets the tender chicken and soft cranberries.
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced: Fresh and mild, they bring a subtle zing and lovely green color.
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped: Adds crispness and a refreshing lightness that balances richer ingredients.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise: Serves as a creamy base for the dressing, adding smooth texture.
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt: Offers tang and healthful creaminess, making the dressing lighter and more complex.
- 1 tablespoon honey: A natural sweetener that enhances the salad’s overall flavor.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Brings acidity and brightness to balance the sweetness and creaminess.
- 1 teaspoon poppy seeds: Tiny bursts of nuttiness that make the dressing unique and interesting.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that elevate every bite.
- Mixed greens or croissants for serving: Options to enjoy the salad as a light meal or a satisfying sandwich.
How to Make Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Main Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the chopped or shredded cooked chicken, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, thinly sliced green onions, and finely chopped celery. This colorful mix creates a lively base packed with different textures and natural sweetness.
Step 2: Whisk the Poppy Seed Dressing
In a smaller bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, honey, apple cider vinegar, and poppy seeds until fully blended and smooth. This creamy dressing has the perfect balance of tang, sweetness, and that unmistakable poppy seed crunch.
Step 3: Combine Salad and Dressing
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir gently but thoroughly so every bite is coated with that flavorful dressing. At this stage, add salt and fresh cracked black pepper according to your taste preferences.
Step 4: Chill and Let Flavors Meld
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This gives the ingredients time to soak up the dressing and brings all the flavors into delicious harmony.
How to Serve Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle extra chopped pecans or a few whole dried cranberries on top for an attractive finish. A few fresh green onion rings or even some freshly chopped parsley can also add a pop of color and freshness that will brighten the presentation.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with light, crisp sides like a fresh fruit salad, crunchy vegetable sticks, or a simple green salad dressed in lemon juice and olive oil. It’s also delightful alongside toasted baguette slices or crispy pita chips for added texture.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not turn this salad into a showstopper by serving it inside buttery croissants for an indulgent lunch? Or scoop it atop a bed of mixed greens for an elegant plate. You can even spoon it into avocado halves for a beautiful and nutrient-packed twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers of this Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe, simply transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh and tasty for up to three days, making it perfect for quick meals during a busy week.
Freezing
Because this salad includes mayonnaise and Greek yogurt, freezing is not recommended. The texture and taste of the dressing can change after thawing, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or well-chilled.
Reheating
This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary. If you want a warm base, consider gently warming some toasted bread or croissants to serve it with instead of heating the salad itself.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds great flavor and saves time, making this salad even quicker to prepare.
Can I substitute the pecans with other nuts?
Yes! Walnuts or almonds make excellent alternatives if you want to change up the crunch or if pecans aren’t available.
Is there a dairy-free option for this salad?
Definitely. Replace the Greek yogurt with additional mayonnaise to keep the dressing creamy while making it dairy-free.
How long should I chill the salad before serving?
Chilling for at least 30 minutes is ideal to allow the flavors to meld, but you can refrigerate it longer for even deeper flavor.
Can I prepare this salad ahead of time for a party?
Yes! This recipe is perfect for making a few hours or even a day ahead, just keep it refrigerated and give it a gentle stir before serving.
Final Thoughts
I encourage you to try this delightful Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe as soon as you can. Its delightful combination of flavors and textures, ease of preparation, and versatility in serving options make it a true winner for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding your family a quick lunch or looking for an impressive dish to share with friends, this salad is sure to become a beloved favorite.
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Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is a delightful and healthy no-cook recipe combining tender chicken breast with sweet dried cranberries, crunchy pecans, and a tangy, creamy poppy seed dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner, it’s naturally gluten-free and easy to prepare in just 15 minutes.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped or shredded
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/3 cup chopped pecans
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
Dressing Ingredients
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Serving Suggestions
- Mixed greens or croissants for serving
Instructions
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the chopped or shredded cooked chicken breast, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, thinly sliced green onions, and finely chopped celery. Mix gently to combine all the salad components evenly.
- Prepare Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, plain Greek yogurt, honey, apple cider vinegar, and poppy seeds until the dressing is smooth and well emulsified.
- Mix Dressing with Salad: Pour the prepared poppy seed dressing over the chicken mixture. Stir thoroughly until every ingredient is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Season and Chill: Season the salad with salt and black pepper according to your taste. Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: After chilling, serve the chicken salad over a bed of mixed greens, or use it as a filling for sandwiches or croissants for a delicious meal.
Notes
- For convenience, use rotisserie chicken as a time saver.
- Feel free to substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if preferred.
- To make a dairy-free version, replace the Greek yogurt with additional mayonnaise.
