Introduction
This Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is a refined yet comforting dish that balances sweetness, crunch, and savory richness in every bite. I like to prepare this recipe when I want something light but satisfying, perfect for lunches, brunch spreads, or quick dinners. The contrast between tender chicken, tart cranberries, buttery pecans, and the creamy poppy seed dressing creates a layered flavor that feels both wholesome and indulgent. I have tested this salad with different greens and even swapped the protein once or twice, but the classic chicken version remains my favorite. It is easy to assemble, travels well, and feels just as appropriate for meal prep as it does for entertaining guests.
Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing – A Fresh, Elegant Classic
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A fresh and flavorful chicken salad made with tender chicken, sweet dried cranberries, crunchy pecans, and crisp greens, tossed in a creamy poppy seed dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup pecans, toasted and chopped
- 4 cups mixed salad greens
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup celery, chopped
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, celery, and red onion.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, honey, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Pour the poppy seed dressing over the chicken mixture and gently toss until evenly coated.
- Arrange the mixed salad greens on serving plates or in a large serving bowl.
- Spoon the cranberry pecan chicken salad over the greens.
- Serve immediately or chill for 20–30 minutes for enhanced flavor.
Notes
- Greek yogurt can be substituted for mayonnaise for a lighter version.
- Rotisserie chicken works well to save time.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is quick to prepare, beautifully balanced in flavor, and versatile enough to serve on its own, in sandwiches, or over fresh greens. It offers a satisfying combination of textures and works well for both casual meals and special occasions.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Cooked chicken breast
Tender, cooked chicken breast forms the protein-rich base of this salad. I prefer poached or roasted chicken for a clean, mild flavor that absorbs the dressing well.
Dried cranberries
These add a pleasant tartness and subtle sweetness, brightening the salad and balancing the savory elements.
Pecans
Chopped pecans provide crunch and a buttery, nutty depth. Lightly toasting them enhances their flavor significantly.
Celery
Celery adds freshness and crisp texture, preventing the salad from feeling heavy.
Red onion
Finely diced red onion introduces a gentle sharpness that contrasts nicely with the creamy dressing.
Mayonnaise
This creates the creamy base of the dressing, binding all ingredients together smoothly.
Honey
Honey softens the acidity and adds natural sweetness to the poppy seed dressing.
Apple cider vinegar
A small amount brings brightness and balances the richness of the mayonnaise.
Poppy seeds
These add subtle crunch and visual appeal while giving the dressing its signature character.
Salt
Salt enhances all the flavors and keeps the salad from tasting flat.
Black pepper
Freshly ground black pepper adds mild heat and depth without overpowering the dish.
Directions
Begin by preparing the chicken if it is not already cooked. Allow it to cool completely, then dice or shred it into bite-sized pieces. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken with the dried cranberries, chopped pecans, celery, and red onion, gently tossing to distribute the ingredients evenly.
In a separate bowl, prepare the poppy seed dressing. Whisk together the mayonnaise, honey, apple cider vinegar, poppy seeds, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well blended. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and fold gently until everything is evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled on its own, over leafy greens, or inside croissants or sandwich rolls.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, with an additional 30 minutes of chilling time.
Variations and Customizations
This chicken salad adapts beautifully to personal preferences and dietary needs. For a lighter version, you can replace half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt, which adds tang and reduces fat while maintaining creaminess. If you prefer a sweeter profile, add a bit more honey or include chopped apples or grapes for natural sweetness.
For added texture, sliced almonds or walnuts can replace pecans. If you enjoy herbs, finely chopped fresh parsley or dill adds freshness and complexity. I have also tested this recipe with rotisserie chicken, which works well when time is limited.
To make it dairy-free, ensure the mayonnaise is plant-based. For a lower-sugar option, reduce the honey and rely on the cranberries for sweetness. This salad can also be served warm by using freshly cooked chicken, though it is traditionally enjoyed chilled.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
Approximate values per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbs | 22 g |
| Fat | 26 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4.5 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 14 g |
| Sodium | 480 mg |
Expert Tips & Customizations
Balance the dressing carefully
Start with less honey and adjust gradually to avoid overpowering sweetness.
Toast the pecans
A quick toast enhances flavor and keeps them crunchy longer.
Chill before serving
Resting time improves flavor and texture consistency.
Cut ingredients evenly
Uniform pieces ensure every bite tastes balanced.
FAQs
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, it can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and stored refrigerated.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely. It holds its texture well for several days when stored properly.
Can I use leftover chicken?
Yes, leftover roasted or grilled chicken works very well.
What is the best way to serve this salad?
It can be served on its own, over greens, or in sandwiches.
Can I freeze chicken salad?
Freezing is not recommended, as the dressing may separate.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This salad is best enjoyed cold and does not require reheating.
Conclusion
Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is a timeless recipe that combines simplicity with elegance. Its balanced flavors, adaptable nature, and ease of preparation make it a reliable favorite for everyday meals and special gatherings alike.
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