This Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad is a tasty mix of tender chicken, crunchy walnuts, and sweet cranberries. It’s great on a bed of greens or in a sandwich!
I love how easy it is to whip up for lunch, and the bright flavors keep things interesting. Trust me, this salad brings smiles, especially when you sneak in a few extra walnuts. 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: I like to use leftover rotisserie chicken for its great flavor and easy prep. You could also use turkey if that’s what you have on hand, or shredded canned chicken for a faster option.
Walnuts: These add a lovely crunch and flavor. If you have nut allergies, try sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds instead. They both give a nice texture without the allergens.
Dried Cranberries: They bring a sweet and tangy note to the salad. Raisins or chopped dried apricots could work as good substitutes if cranberries aren’t available. Just keep the sweetness in mind.
Mayonnaise: I prefer classic mayo for creaminess. If you’re looking for a healthier option, Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute! It’s tasty and adds extra protein.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Salad Is Well-Mixed and Flavorful?
The key to a great chicken salad is thoroughly mixing your ingredients. Here’s how to do it step-by-step:
- Start by cubing your chicken into uniform pieces for even mixing.
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken with walnuts, cranberries, celery, and red onion. Mixing these together first ensures an even distribution of flavors.
- For the dressing, blend mayo, honey, and lemon juice in a separate bowl until smooth. Adjust seasoning here before adding.
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and gently toss until everything coats well. Use a spatula to fold the mixture rather than stirring aggressively to keep the chicken intact.
- Let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This waits for the flavors to meld, making each bite delicious!
How to Make Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, cubed
- ½ cup walnuts, chopped
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup celery, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
Dressing Ingredients:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and should chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. So, in total, you’ll need about 40 minutes to enjoy your cranberry walnut chicken salad!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Main Ingredients:
Start by taking a large bowl and adding the cubed chicken, chopped walnuts, dried cranberries, diced celery, and finely chopped red onion. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together. This is the base for your delicious salad!
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This dressing adds a sweet and tangy flavor to your salad.
3. Mix It All Together:
Pour the dressing over your chicken mixture and toss everything gently until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. Take your time to make sure every bite will be flavorful!
4. Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
Now, taste your salad and feel free to add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if you think it needs a little extra kick. This step is all about making it perfect for your taste.
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate your salad for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows all the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, enjoy it chilled, either on its own, in a sandwich, or over a bed of greens. Enjoy every bite of your fresh, delicious cranberry walnut chicken salad!
Can I Use Different Nuts in This Salad?
Absolutely! If you prefer or have other nuts on hand, feel free to substitute walnuts with pecans, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a crunchier texture. Just make sure to chop them roughly to match the size of the walnuts.
How Can I Make This Salad Healthier?
A great way to reduce calories and fat is by using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can mix half Greek yogurt and half mayonnaise for a creamier texture while keeping it lighter. You can also add in more veggies like diced bell peppers or shredded carrots for extra fiber and nutrients!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! This chicken salad is perfect for meal prep. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Give it a good stir before serving, and you might want to add a splash of lemon juice to freshen it up!
What Can I Serve with Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad?
This salad is incredibly versatile! Serve it on a bed of greens, in a sandwich, or in a pita. It also pairs wonderfully with crackers or as a topping for whole-grain toast. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside a bowl of vegetable soup.
