Chicken Salad with Cranberries Recipe

Chicken Salad with Cranberries is a flavorful and nutritious dish that combines the tenderness of chicken with the sweetness of cranberries, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner, this salad can be enjoyed on its own or served as a side dish. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, it’s a healthy option for anyone aiming to eat clean while still enjoying delicious meals.

This simple recipe is easy to prepare, and the cranberries add a burst of tartness that complements the creamy dressing and tender chicken. If you’re tired of the same old salad recipes and want to switch things up, this chicken salad with cranberries is a must-try!

Ingredients:

2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup chopped celery
1/4 cup chopped red onion
1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional)
1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

How to Make Chicken Salad with Cranberries Recipe ?

Step 1:
Cook the chicken breast until fully cooked. You can grill, bake, or pan-sear it. Once cooked, shred or dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, dried cranberries, chopped celery, and chopped red onion. If you’re adding almonds, toss them in as well.

Step 3:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), Dijon mustard, honey, and lemon juice. Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until the dressing is smooth.

Step 4:
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir to coat all ingredients evenly. Make sure everything is well combined.

Step 5:
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve. You can refrigerate the salad for 30 minutes to an hour for extra flavor or serve immediately.

Variations:

Add Fruit: Try adding apples, grapes, or oranges for more sweetness and freshness.
Nuts: Switch out the almonds for walnuts, pecans, or sunflower seeds for added crunch.
Greens: Serve the chicken salad on a bed of mixed greens, spinach, or arugula for an added nutritional boost.
Dressing Swap: For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for tanginess.
Protein Options: You can replace the chicken with turkey or even a plant-based protein like chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

COOKING NOTE:

Chicken Options: You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or grilled chicken for a smoky flavor.
Make Ahead: This salad can be prepared a few hours in advance or even the night before. It actually tastes better after the flavors have had time to meld together.
Consistency of Dressing: Adjust the dressing consistency to your liking by adding more mayo or yogurt if you prefer a creamier texture.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve the chicken salad as a main dish for lunch or dinner.
Pair it with whole-grain crackers or a slice of toasted bread.
It can also be served in a wrap or sandwich with fresh lettuce.
For a low-carb option, enjoy the salad in lettuce wraps or on top of a bed of mixed greens.

Helpful Tips:

Grilling Chicken: If you prefer grilled chicken, season the chicken breasts with your favorite spices or marinade before grilling for extra flavor.
Storing Leftovers: This chicken salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving.
Creamier Texture: For a richer dressing, you can mix in a small amount of sour cream or cream cheese with the mayo.

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FAQs About Chicken Salad with Cranberries Recipe

1. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Fresh cranberries are quite tart and may not give you the same sweet contrast as dried cranberries. If you prefer fresh cranberries, consider adding a little extra honey or a sweetener to balance the flavors.

2. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can substitute the mayonnaise with a dairy-free version, such as avocado or vegan mayo. For the yogurt-based dressing, choose a dairy-free yogurt like coconut or almond yogurt.

3. Can I make the chicken salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. The flavors will meld together, making it even tastier.

Conclusion

Chicken Salad with Cranberries is a healthy, refreshing, and delicious meal that combines protein-packed chicken with the sweetness of cranberries. It’s a versatile recipe that can be customized with different fruits, nuts, and dressings to suit your taste. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a quick dinner, or a potluck dish, this chicken salad fits the bill perfectly. With easy-to-follow steps and variations, it’s a great addition to your recipe collection. Enjoy!