Savory Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing
This Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad combines tender chicken, crunchy pecans, and sweet cranberries, all enhanced by a creamy poppy seed dressing.
Print
Pin
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 360kcal
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Airtight Container
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken using rotisserie chicken can save time
- 1 cup dried cranberries opt for unsweetened varieties if desired
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans toasted to enhance flavor
- 1 cup finely chopped celery provides fresh crispness
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions or red onion for a stronger flavor
For the Creamy Poppy Seed Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise forms the creamy base
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream for tanginess
- 2 tablespoons honey adjustable based on taste
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar introduces acidity
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds adds texture and visual appeal
Instructions
Making the Salad
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, honey, apple cider vinegar, poppy seeds, and season with salt and pepper.
- In a larger bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, chopped celery, and sliced green onions.
- Pour the creamy poppy seed dressing over the chicken mixture and gently fold until well-coated.
- Cover the salad bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Serve on a bed of greens, in lettuce cups, or as a sandwich filling.
Notes
For maximum crunch, add the dressing just before serving if you anticipate leftovers.
Nutrition
Serving: 1serving | Calories: 360kcal | Carbohydrates: 20g | Protein: 25g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 12g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 75mg | Sodium: 300mg | Potassium: 400mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 500IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 50mg | Iron: 2mg