Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing

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Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing

This Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is creamy, crunchy, sweet, and savory all in one delicious bite. Tender chicken breast is tossed with crunchy pecans, sweet dried cranberries, and fresh green onions, then coated in a creamy poppy seed dressing that brings everything together beautifully. Perfect for sandwiches, wraps, meal prep lunches, or light dinners!

🛒 Ingredients

For the Chicken Salad

  • 4 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped
  • 1 cup pecans, chopped
  • ½ cup dried cranberries
  • 4 green onions, chopped

For the Poppy Seed Dressing

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup sour cream
  • 2 tbsp honey (optional)
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp poppy seeds
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped chicken, pecans, dried cranberries, and green onions.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, honey, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Combine

Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and gently toss until everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Chill & Serve

Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to blend together.

Serve chilled on croissants, sandwich bread, wraps, crackers, or over fresh lettuce greens.

🍽️ Servings

Serves 6

⏱️ Prep Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Chill Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes

💡 Tips for the Best Chicken Salad

  • Toast the pecans for extra flavor and crunch.
  • Rotisserie chicken works perfectly for a quick shortcut.
  • Add diced celery or apples for more texture.
  • For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream or mayonnaise.

🥗 Serving Ideas

  • Stuff into buttery croissants
  • Serve in lettuce cups for a low-carb option
  • Make a wrap with spinach tortillas
  • Enjoy with crackers as an appetizer
  • Add to a fresh green salad

🥄 Storage

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving.

🥗 Nutrition Information (Approx. Per Serving)

  • Calories: 390
  • Protein: 28g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fat: 26g
  • Fiber: 2g

❓Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! This salad tastes even better after chilling for a few hours.

Can I use another nut instead of pecans?

Absolutely. Walnuts or sliced almonds work great too.

Is the honey necessary?

No, but it adds a subtle sweetness that balances the tangy dressing.

What’s the best chicken to use?

Cooked chicken breast, rotisserie chicken, or leftover roasted chicken all work well.

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