Get ready to transform your ordinary lunch into an extraordinary culinary experience! This Sweet Salty Chicken Salad is not just another recipe – it's a symphony of flavors that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Imagine tender shredded chicken perfectly balanced with sweet cranberries, crunchy pecans, and a heavenly honey-mayo dressing that will have everyone begging for your secret recipe. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch, a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, or a gourmet sandwich filling, this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken. Ensure the chicken is cooled to room temperature if freshly cooked.
- Finely dice the celery into small, uniform pieces to ensure even distribution throughout the salad.
- Add the dried cranberries to the chicken, which will provide a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory meat.
- Roughly chop the pecans to create a crunchy texture. Toast the pecans lightly in a dry skillet for enhanced flavor if desired.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and honey until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the honey-mayonnaise dressing over the chicken mixture and gently fold to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, being careful not to over-salt as the pecans and dried cranberries already add complexity to the flavor profile.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
- Serve chilled on a bed of mixed greens, in a sandwich, or as a standalone salad.
Tips
- Chicken Choice Matters: Use freshly cooked or leftover roasted chicken for the best flavor. Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully as a time-saving option.
- Toasting Pecans: Take an extra minute to lightly toast your pecans in a dry skillet. This simple step intensifies their nutty flavor and adds an incredible depth to the salad.
- Chill for Maximum Flavor: Refrigerating the salad for at least 30 minutes allows the ingredients to marry and the flavors to develop fully. Patience is key!
- Customization is King: Feel free to swap cranberries for dried cherries or adjust the nuts to your preference. This recipe loves a personal touch.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve on a bed of mixed greens, stuff into a croissant, or enjoy as a protein-packed lunch. The possibilities are endless!
- Make-Ahead Magic: This salad keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, making it perfect for meal prep and quick lunches.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 334kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 17g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 38mg
