Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why this cranberry pecan chicken salad will become a favorite.
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Only a handful of ingredients. Simple and affordable.
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No cooking required. Use a rotisserie chicken.
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Ready in under 15 minutes (plus chilling).
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Creamy and crunchy. The perfect texture combination.
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Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves chicken salad.
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Budget-friendly. Chicken, cranberries, and pecans are affordable.
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Perfect for lunches, parties, and holidays.
Ingredients
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1 Rotisserie Chicken, shredded
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3/4 cup Plain Yogurt
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1 cup Mayonnaise
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1/2 cup Sweet Relish
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1 teaspoon Onion Powder
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1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
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1/2 teaspoon Dill Weed
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1/2 cup Crushed Pecans
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1 cup Dried Cranberries
Ingredient Notes
Rotisserie chicken: Use a rotisserie chicken. Shred it into bite-size pieces.
Plain yogurt: Adds tang and creaminess.
Mayonnaise: Adds richness and creaminess.
Sweet relish: Adds sweetness and tang.
Pecans: Add crunch and nutty flavor.
Dried cranberries: Add sweetness and chewiness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Combine the Chicken, Cranberries, and Pecans
Place the shredded chicken, dried cranberries, and crushed pecans in a large mixing bowl. Mix until well combined by hand.
Step 2: Add the Remaining Ingredients
Add the plain yogurt, mayonnaise, sweet relish, onion powder, garlic powder, and dill weed to the bowl.
Step 3: Mix Until Well Combined
Mix everything together until well combined.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Refrigerate for 1 hour before serving.
How to Serve Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad
This creamy, crunchy chicken salad is delicious on its own, but a few accompaniments make it even better.
On a Croissant: Serve on a butter croissant for a classic sandwich.
With Crackers: Serve with buttery crackers for a snack.
On a Bed of Greens: Serve over mixed greens for a salad.
In a Wrap: Roll in a tortilla with lettuce.
With Fresh Fruit: Serve with apple slices or grapes.
Variations & Tips
Make It with Greek Yogurt: Use Greek yogurt for extra tang.
Make It with Almonds: Substitute almonds for pecans.
Make It with Walnuts: Use walnuts instead of pecans.
Make It with Dried Cherries: Use dried cherries instead of cranberries.
Make It with Apples: Add diced apples for crunch.
Make It with Celery: Add diced celery for extra crunch.
Make It with Grapes: Add halved grapes.
Make It with Dill: Add fresh dill for extra flavor.
Make It Gluten-Free: Serve with gluten-free crackers or bread.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Use a rotisserie chicken. This saves time and adds flavor.
Chill the salad for at least 1 hour. This allows the flavors to meld.
Taste and adjust seasoning. Add more salt or pepper if needed.
Toast the pecans for extra flavor. This is optional but recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different chicken?
Yes. Cooked chicken breast can be used.
Can I use a different yogurt?
Yes. Greek yogurt can be used.
Can I use a different mayonnaise?
Yes. Any mayonnaise works.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Chill for up to 24 hours before serving.
Can I freeze this salad?
Freezing is not recommended. The texture may change.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why is my salad dry?
The mayonnaise and yogurt may not be enough. Add more.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes. Add celery or apples.
Can I use a different relish?
Yes. Dill relish can be used.
Can I serve this warm?
This salad is best served cold.
The Beauty of Chicken Salad
There is something deeply satisfying about a creamy, crunchy chicken salad that comes together with almost no effort. It is the kind of food that makes people happy. This cranberry pecan chicken salad is a celebration of all those things.
Keep rotisserie chicken in your fridge. Keep cranberries, pecans, and yogurt in your pantry and fridge. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 4 to 6 servings