THE BEST CHICKEN SALAD
This is the BEST chicken salad recipe. It could not be easier or more delicious. With chicken, cranberries, apples, and pecans, it’s wonderful on its own or as a sandwich!
I want to be that person who invented egg salad and chicken salad. I mean, that person deserves a gold medal. Yummy, versatile, classic. How do you make yours?
Even though this particular chicken salad has been floating around for ages, I was only introduced to it a few years ago by my friend, Kary.
We were hanging out at her house and she made it for lunch one day. I was practically mesmerized by all the ingredients she was mixing together. It all seemed so odd…and yet wonderful. I knew immediately how much I would love it.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This chicken salad is the perfect combination of savory and sweet. It’s light yet filling, making it an ideal choice for a quick lunch or a picnic. The crunch of pecans and the tartness of the apples and cranberries bring a delightful balance to the creamy dressing.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Medium mixing bowl
- Spoon for mixing
- Knife and cutting board for chopping ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 2 tablespoons dried cranberries
- 3 tablespoons chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup diced Granny Smith apple
- 10 ounces (1 can) white chunk chicken breast, drained, broken up into pieces
- Baby spinach leaves, optional
- 4 croissants or soft dinner rolls, optional
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix together the mayo, yogurt, mustard, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning, if necessary. Gently fold in the cranberries, pecans, apple, and chicken.
- Eat as is or place on sliced croissants with some baby spinach or lettuce.
Tips for Success
For the best results, use fresh ingredients and adjust the seasoning to your liking. If you prefer a creamier salad, add a bit more mayo or yogurt.
Additional Tips or Variations
Feel free to substitute the pecans with walnuts or almonds, or add a splash of lemon juice for extra freshness. If you’re not a fan of cranberries, raisins can be a great alternative.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This chicken salad is a great source of protein and healthy fats, thanks to the chicken and pecans. The apples and cranberries add fiber and antioxidants, making it a nutritious choice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use fresh chicken instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just cook and shred the chicken breast before adding it to the salad.
How long can I store this chicken salad?
It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
Now that you have this amazing chicken salad recipe at your fingertips, it’s time to give it a try! Whether you enjoy it on its own or as a sandwich, I’m sure you’ll love it just as much as I do. Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below!