Are you looking for a delicious and healthy meal that's perfect for a light lunch, a quick dinner, or even a festive holiday gathering? Look no further! This Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is a delightful blend of sweet, savory, and crunchy textures that will tantalize your taste buds. It's surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal cooking time, making it ideal for busy weeknights. This recipe is packed with flavor and nutrition, making it a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals. Let's dive into this homemade cooking masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced (about 1 pound boneless, skinless breasts)
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, thawed and drained
- ½ cup pecan halves, toasted
- ½ cup celery, finely chopped
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a healthier option)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon dried sage
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Chicken: If you haven't already, cook your chicken breasts. Grilling, baking, or poaching are all excellent methods. Once cooked, let it cool completely before shredding or dicing.
-
Toast the Pecans: Spread pecan halves on a baking sheet and toast in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
-
Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cranberries, toasted pecans, celery, and red onion.
-
Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and sage. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
-
Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture and gently toss to combine. Make sure all ingredients are evenly coated.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately on its own, on crackers, in lettuce cups, or as a sandwich filling. This cranberry pecan chicken salad is equally delightful served warm or cold.
Tips for the Best Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad:
- For extra flavor: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the dressing.
- Make it spicier: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the dressing.
- Use different nuts: Walnuts or almonds can be substituted for pecans.
- Add some crunch: Consider adding a handful of chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds for added texture.
- Prep ahead: This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight.
Variations:
- Creamy Avocado Cranberry Chicken Salad: Add ½ of a ripe avocado, mashed, to the dressing for a creamier, richer texture.
- Spicy Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the dressing for a kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350 (depending on ingredients used)
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This cranberry pecan chicken salad is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for those seeking delicious, healthy meals without spending hours in the kitchen. It's a quick dinner idea that's both satisfying and sophisticated, easily adaptable to your preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy this easy recipe and discover a new favorite!