There’s something so delightful about making a refreshing salad, don’t you think? My cranberry pecan chicken salad with poppy seed dressing is one of my go-to dishes for any occasion—whether it’s a casual lunch, a summer picnic, or a festive gathering. It’s not just the vibrant colors that grab your attention; it’s the perfect blend of flavors and textures! The sweetness of the cranberries, the crunch of the pecans, and that creamy, dreamy poppy seed dressing make every bite a joy. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up! Seriously, you can have this gorgeous salad ready in just 15 minutes. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe close at hand!
Ingredients for Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing
Here’s what you’ll need to create this deliciously refreshing salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (leftover chicken works great here!)
- 1 cup dried cranberries (they add a lovely sweetness)
- 1 cup pecans, chopped (for that perfect crunch)
- 6 cups mixed greens (feel free to use your favorite variety)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (this gives the dressing a creamy base)
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (for added tang and creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (a splash of brightness)
- 2 tablespoons poppy seeds (for a little extra crunch and flair)
- 1 tablespoon honey (to balance out the flavors)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t skip this step!)
How to Prepare Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing
Preparing this cranberry pecan chicken salad with poppy seed dressing is a breeze, and it all comes together in just a few simple steps! I promise, once you get the hang of it, you’ll be making this salad on repeat. Let’s dive into the preparation!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, dried cranberries, and chopped pecans. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, poppy seeds, and honey. This is where the magic happens! Make sure it’s smooth and creamy.
- Season the dressing with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. You can adjust this based on your preference—don’t be shy!
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture. Toss everything together until the chicken, cranberries, and pecans are well-coated in that luscious dressing.
- Finally, serve your beautiful salad on a bed of mixed greens. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Tips for Success with Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing
To get the most out of your cranberry pecan chicken salad with poppy seed dressing, here are a few pro tips that I swear by!
- Use leftover chicken: It saves time and adds flavor; just shred it and you’re good to go!
- Make it a day in advance: The flavors deepen and meld beautifully overnight—trust me, it’s worth it!
- Don’t skimp on seasoning: A pinch of salt and pepper really elevates the dressing, so taste as you go.
- Experiment with greens: Swap out mixed greens for spinach or arugula for a twist!
- Keep it chilled: This salad is best served cold, so refrigerate until you’re ready to serve!
Nutritional Information for Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing
If you’re curious about the nutritional benefits of my cranberry pecan chicken salad with poppy seed dressing, here’s a quick breakdown. Please note that these values are estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients you choose!
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fiber: 3g
This salad is not only delicious but also packed with protein from the chicken and healthy fats from the pecans. Enjoy it guilt-free!
FAQ about Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing
Got questions about my cranberry pecan chicken salad with poppy seed dressing? No worries, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I hear:
- Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked? Absolutely! Just cook and shred your chicken beforehand. It’ll add a delightful freshness.
- What can I substitute for pecans? If you’re not a fan of pecans, walnuts work wonderfully, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free version!
- How long does this salad last in the fridge? It’s best enjoyed within 3 days, but the flavors can really shine for up to 2 days if stored properly.
- Can I add other ingredients? For sure! Chopped apples or celery can add extra crunch and flavor—get creative!
- Is this salad suitable for meal prep? Yes! It’s perfect for making ahead and enjoying throughout the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to make: In just 15 minutes, you can whip up this delightful salad—perfect for busy days!
- Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a gorgeous dish ready to serve.
- Flavor-packed: The combination of sweet cranberries, crunchy pecans, and creamy dressing creates a taste sensation!
- Healthy option: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this salad is not only delicious but nutritious as well.
- Versatile: Great for lunch, dinner, or as a side dish for gatherings—it’s a crowd-pleaser!
Variations on Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing
One of the best things about my cranberry pecan chicken salad with poppy seed dressing is how easy it is to customize! Here are some fun variations to keep things exciting:
- Nut swaps: Try using chopped walnuts or slivered almonds for a different crunch.
- Veggie additions: Toss in some diced celery or bell peppers for an extra pop of color and texture.
- Fruit twist: Add diced apples or sliced grapes for a refreshing sweetness that complements the cranberries.
- Herb infusion: Mix in some fresh herbs like dill or parsley to brighten up the flavors.
- Spicy kick: If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce in the dressing!
Feel free to experiment and make this salad your own—there are no rules in the kitchen, just deliciousness waiting to happen!
Serving Suggestions for Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing
When it comes to enjoying my cranberry pecan chicken salad with poppy seed dressing, pairing it with the right sides can really elevate your meal! Here are a few ideas that I absolutely love:
- Crispy bread or croissants: A warm baguette or buttery croissant complements the salad perfectly, making for a satisfying lunch.
- Fruit platter: Serve it alongside a vibrant fruit platter for a fresh and colorful contrast.
- Soup: A light vegetable or tomato soup serves as a comforting side, making it a complete meal.
- Chips: Some crunchy tortilla chips or pita chips can add a fun texture contrast!
- Quinoa or rice: For a heartier option, serve the salad over a bed of quinoa or brown rice for added nutrition.
These pairings not only complement the flavors but also make your meal even more delightful! Enjoy!
Print
Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing Bliss
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A refreshing salad featuring chicken, cranberries, pecans, and a sweet poppy seed dressing.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 6 cups mixed greens
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons poppy seeds
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, cranberries, and pecans.
- In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, poppy seeds, and honey.
- Season dressing with salt and pepper.
- Pour dressing over the chicken mixture and toss to coat.
- Serve on a bed of mixed greens.
Notes
- Substitute walnuts for pecans if desired.
- Use leftover chicken for quicker preparation.
- This salad can be made a day in advance.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: cranberry pecan chicken salad, poppy seed dressing, chicken salad recipe