Are you a fan of Publix's famous Cransational Chicken Salad? That creamy, dreamy mix of chicken, cranberries, and pecans? Well, get ready to be amazed! This recipe lets you recreate that deliciousness right in your own kitchen. It's surprisingly easy, uses readily available ingredients, and tastes just as good (if not better!) than the store-bought version. Perfect for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or even a sophisticated appetizer, this chicken salad is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients: A Deliciously Simple List
This recipe is designed to be straightforward, using ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works perfectly!)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt (for a healthier twist)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon chopped celery (optional, but adds great texture)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped red onion for extra zing!
Step-by-Step Instructions: Effortless Homemade Goodness
This recipe is quick, easy, and requires minimal cooking skills. Even beginners can master this delicious dish.
- Prep the Chicken: If using a rotisserie chicken, shred the meat. If cooking your own chicken, ensure it's fully cooked and cooled before shredding.
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, gently combine the shredded chicken, cranberries, pecans, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, celery (if using), salt, and pepper. If adding red onion, incorporate it now.
- Mix Thoroughly: Gently mix all ingredients until everything is evenly coated. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the chicken salad mushy.
- Taste and Adjust: Give it a taste test! Adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or Dijon mustard to your liking.
- Chill (Optional): For best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve your homemade Publix Cransational Chicken Salad on croissants, crackers, bread, lettuce wraps – the possibilities are endless!
Cooking Tips and Variations: Elevate Your Chicken Salad Game
- Chicken Choice: Feel free to experiment with different types of cooked chicken, such as grilled chicken or baked chicken breast.
- Nut Variations: Walnuts or almonds can be substituted for pecans, offering a different flavor profile.
- Spice it Up: A pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce adds a delightful kick.
- Add Some Greens: Incorporate chopped fresh parsley or chives for an extra layer of freshness.
- Make it a Meal: Serve your chicken salad over a bed of mixed greens for a complete and healthy meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Around 20-25g
- Fat: Around 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Around 10-15g
This recipe is a fantastic example of delicious and easy recipes, perfect for healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. It's a testament to the power of homemade cooking, delivering a restaurant-quality dish with minimal effort. Enjoy your delicious, homemade Cransational Chicken Salad!