This crunchy and colorful chicken salad combines juicy chicken, tart cranberries, and crunchy walnuts for a tasty mix. It’s perfect for a light lunch or a picnic!
I love how quick this salad is to whip up—just toss everything together, and you’re set. Great on a bed of lettuce or in a sandwich! You can’t go wrong. 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Cooked chicken breast is the star here. You can use leftovers or rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey works well too.
Cranberries: Dried cranberries add sweetness and tartness. If you don’t have them, raisins or chopped apple can work as a fresh substitute.
Walnuts: Chopped walnuts give a nice crunch. If nuts are a concern, try sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. They add texture without the allergens.
Mayonnaise: I like using regular mayonnaise, but Greek yogurt is a superb swap for a healthier touch. It still provides creaminess and a little tanginess.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a bit of zip to the dressing. If you want something milder, yellow mustard will do just fine.
How Do You Make Sure the Salad is Full of Flavor?
Flavor is key for this chicken salad! First, make sure to season properly. Salt and pepper bring everything to life. I recommend adding some of your dressing ingredients—like honey and mustard—into the chicken as you mix it. This helps the flavors get into the chicken.
- Mix all dry ingredients first—this helps distribute flavors evenly.
- Give your dressing a good whisk so it’s well combined before adding it to the chicken mix.
- Let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes in the fridge. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to blend nicely.
Easy Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, overall, you’ll be ready to enjoy this delicious salad in just under one hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, add your cooked, diced or shredded chicken breast. Then, toss in the dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, finely chopped celery, and the diced red onion. Give them a good mix to combine all the ingredients together.
2. Whisk the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), honey, and Dijon mustard until the mixture is smooth. This will create a creamy dressing that will tie everything together.
3. Mix It Up:
Pour the creamy dressing over the chicken mixture. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are well-coated with the dressing. This ensures that every bite is packed with flavor!
4. Season:
Now, add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Don’t be shy—this step really enhances the flavor of the salad!
5. Chill It:
Cover the salad with plastic wrap or a lid, and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows the flavors to blend beautifully, making it even more delicious.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, serve your cranberry walnut chicken salad on a bed of fresh lettuce, in a sandwich, or with crunchy crackers. Enjoy your delightful and easy meal!
FAQs About Easy Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover roast chicken works great, or you can use rotisserie chicken for a quick option. Just make sure it’s cooled and either diced or shredded before mixing it into the salad.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving again, as the ingredients may settle.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, this salad is perfect for making ahead! You can prepare it and refrigerate it up to 2 days in advance. Just keep in mind that if you use crispy walnuts, you might want to add them just before serving to maintain their crunch.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute for mayonnaise! It adds creaminess and a bit of tang. You can also try avocado for a healthy fat swap if you’re feeling adventurous.
