This vibrant chicken salad is packed with juicy cranberries, crunchy walnuts, and tender chicken. It’s a tasty mix that’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner!
I’ll be honest, the sweet-cranberry and nutty-walnut combo makes this salad hard to resist. I usually end up eating it straight from the bowl—no regrets! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Use cooked chicken breast for tender chunks. I find rotisserie chicken convenient, but you can poach or grill your own. It’s great for using up leftovers, too!
Dried Cranberries: They add sweetness and a chewy texture. If you want a twist, try using chopped dried cherries or raisins instead.
Walnuts: These provide a crunchy bite. For a nut-free version, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds work well!
Celery: For a crisp texture. You can swap it for diced apples or grapes if you’re looking for a hint of sweetness.
Mayonnaise: It acts as a creamy binder. Greek yogurt is a fantastic alternative for a lighter take, or try avocado for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Salad Stays Fresh?
To keep your chicken salad fresh and tasty, proper storage is key. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge to minimize exposure to air. Here are a few tips:
- If adding crunchy ingredients, consider serving them separately to keep everything fresh.
- Chill the salad well for at least 30 minutes before serving, allowing flavors to meld and enhancing the taste.
- Consume within 3-4 days for the best freshness.
This chicken salad is versatile! Try it in a wrap or on a sandwich for a quick meal. Enjoy your creation!
Easy Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, diced (about 2 large breasts)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
- 2 teaspoons honey
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chicken salad will take approximately 15 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 30 minutes for chilling in the refrigerator. So, in about 45 minutes—most of which is hands-off time—you’ll be ready to serve it up!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
If your chicken isn’t cooked yet, poach or roast the chicken breasts until they are fully cooked. Once they cool a bit, dice them into bite-sized pieces. This will be the base of your salad!
2. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken, dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, finely chopped celery, and red onion. This mixture creates a colorful and textural salad!
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth. It’s the creamy goodness that brings everything together!
4. Combine and Toss:
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and gently toss everything together so that all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Taste and Adjust:
Give your salad a quick taste and adjust the seasonings if needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or honey depending on your preference!
6. Chill for Best Flavor:
Cover the bowl and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
7. Serve Your Salad:
When you’re ready to eat, serve the salad on a bed of lettuce, in a sandwich, or enjoy it with your favorite crackers. It’s a refreshing and satisfying meal!
Enjoy your fresh and flavorful Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad!”
FAQ for Easy Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover roasted or grilled chicken works perfectly. Just make sure it’s diced into bite-sized pieces so it blends well with the other ingredients.
Can I Substitute the Mayonnaise?
Yes! Greek yogurt is a great alternative for a lighter option. You can also use mashed avocado for a creamy, dairy-free version.
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, this salad will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Make sure to keep it refrigerated to ensure the best quality!
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in ingredients like diced apples for sweetness, diced bell peppers for a crunch, or even a sprinkle of feta cheese for extra flavor!
