Irresistible Chicken Salad with Cranberries, Pecans, and Poppy Seed Dressing
Looking for a salad that’s both refreshing and indulgent? This Chicken Salad with Cranberries, Pecans, and Poppy Seed Dressing is the ultimate combination of flavors and textures—tender chicken, crunchy pecans, sweet-tart cranberries, and a creamy, subtly sweet dressing that ties everything together perfectly. Whether you’re preparing a light lunch, a family dinner, or a dish to impress guests, this salad will quickly become a crowd favorite.
Ingredients & Their Roles
For the Dressing:
- 120 ml mayonnaise – Provides a creamy, rich base that coats each ingredient perfectly.
- 60 ml sour cream – Adds tanginess and lightens the dressing for a smooth finish.
- 2 tablespoons honey – Brings a hint of sweetness that complements the cranberries.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – Adds a mild sharpness to balance the creaminess and sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds – Delivers a subtle crunch and nutty flavor, enhancing the texture.
- Salt, to taste – Enhances all other flavors in the dressing.
For the Salad:
- 4 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast – The protein-packed heart of the salad, tender and versatile.
- 1 cup chopped pecans – Adds a crunchy, buttery texture and a touch of nutty richness.
- 120 ml dried cranberries – Provides sweet-tart bursts of flavor in every bite.
- 4 green onions, chopped – Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor that balances richness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Dressing
- In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, honey, Dijon mustard, and poppy seeds.
- Whisk thoroughly until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Taste and adjust the salt if necessary. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped pecans, dried cranberries, and green onions.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss until every ingredient is evenly coated.
- Taste and adjust salt if needed.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Chicken Salad
- Cook chicken perfectly: Use poached, baked, or rotisserie chicken for moist, flavorful results.
- Toast the pecans: Lightly to enhance their nuttiness.
- Chill the salad: Refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
- Customize sweetness: Adjust honey or cranberries based on your preferred sweetness level.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over fresh mixed greens for a lighter meal.
- Pair with crusty bread or croissants for a hearty lunch.
- Garnish with extra poppy seeds or fresh herbs for presentation.
Why This Recipe Is Loved
This chicken salad strikes the perfect balance of sweet, savory, creamy, and crunchy. It’s simple to prepare, yet elegant enough for gatherings. The combination of textures—tender chicken, crunchy pecans, juicy cranberries, and creamy dressing—makes every bite irresistible.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for a quick weekday lunch, a potluck favorite, or a show-stopping dish, this Chicken Salad with Cranberries, Pecans, and Poppy Seed Dressing delivers on flavor, texture, and visual appeal. Its simplicity, versatility, and unforgettable taste make it a recipe you’ll return to again and again.
