This tasty cranberry walnut chicken salad is a perfect mix of juicy chicken, crunchy walnuts, and sweet cranberries. It’s a wonderful dish for lunch or as a light dinner!
I love making this salad when I want something quick and delicious. The crunch from the nuts and the sweetness from the cranberries makes every bite a delight. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Cooked chicken breast is the main ingredient. If you’re short on time, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken works great. You could also use leftover roasted chicken or turkey for a twist.
Walnuts: These add a nice crunch and flavor. If you have nut allergies, try using sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds instead. They provide texture without the nuts.
Dried Cranberries: They bring sweetness and tartness. You can substitute with raisins or chopped dried apricots. If you prefer fresh fruit, diced apples or pears are delicious alternatives.
Mayonnaise: This is the base for the dressing. You can replace it with Greek yogurt for a lighter option or use a vegan mayo if you want to keep it plant-based.
How Can I Achieve the Perfect Chicken Salad Consistency?
The key to a great chicken salad is the balance of ingredients. Make sure you dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing. Also, chop the walnuts and celery evenly to ensure each bite is flavorful.
- Mix everything in a large bowl to give plenty of room for tossing.
- When adding the dressing, start with a little and add more if needed. You want it coated, but not swimming in mayo.
- Chilling the mixture allows the flavors to combine, making the salad even tastier!
How to Make Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon lemon juice for added freshness
For Serving:
- Optional: Leafy greens (like lettuce)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing Chicken Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, with an additional 30 minutes for chilling in the refrigerator. Overall, you’re looking at around 45 minutes from start to finish, but most of that is just waiting for the flavors to meld!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
Start by taking a large mixing bowl. Add in the diced cooked chicken, chopped walnuts, dried cranberries, diced celery, and finely chopped red onion. Use a spoon or spatula to mix everything together gently so that all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Make the Creamy Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, honey, salt, and pepper. If you’d like a zesty kick, feel free to add the optional lemon juice at this stage! Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and smooth.
3. Combine and Chill:
Now, pour the creamy dressing over the chicken mixture. Gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is well coated in the dressing. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or pepper if desired. Once mixed, cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to chill and let the flavors meld.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
After chilling, it’s time to serve your delicious chicken salad! You can serve it on a bed of leafy greens, in a sandwich, or enjoy it on its own as a light dish. Enjoy your refreshing Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad!
Can I Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred or dice it and follow the recipe as usual. It adds extra flavor, making the salad even tastier.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you prefer a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute for mayonnaise. You can also use avocado for a creamy texture or a vinaigrette for a tangy twist. Just adjust the amount based on your taste preference!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Chicken Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the salad may lose some crunch over time, so it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you’re planning to make it ahead, consider adding the walnuts just before serving to keep them crunchy!
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes, you can! Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or another protein like tofu. Replace the mayonnaise with a vegan mayo or an avocado to keep the creamy texture. Adjust other ingredients as desired!
