Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is a delightful combination of tender chicken, crunchy pecans, sweet dried cranberries, and crisp greens, all brought together with a creamy, tangy dressing. This salad is perfect for a light lunch, a side dish, or even a main course.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Burst of Flavors – The mix of sweet, tangy, and savory ingredients makes this salad incredibly satisfying.
Quick and Easy – Ready in under 20 minutes, perfect for busy days.
Healthy and Nutritious – Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
Versatile – Can be served on its own, in a sandwich, or wrapped in a tortilla.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
½ cup dried cranberries
½ cup pecans, chopped
2 cups mixed greens (romaine, spinach, or arugula)
½ cup celery, diced
¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
½ cup feta or goat cheese (optional)

For the Poppy Seed Dressing:

¼ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon poppy seeds
Salt and black pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Dressing – In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, honey, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, salt, and pepper until smooth. Set aside.
Assemble the Salad – In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, dried cranberries, pecans, mixed greens, celery, and red onion. Toss to mix evenly.
Dress the Salad – Drizzle the poppy seed dressing over the salad and gently toss until everything is well coated.
Serve – Sprinkle with feta or goat cheese if desired. Serve immediately or chill for 10-15 minutes for flavors to meld.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15-20 minutes

Variations

Protein Options – Swap chicken for turkey, tofu, or chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
Nut-Free Version – Replace pecans with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
Fruit Variations – Add diced apples, grapes, or mandarin oranges for extra sweetness.
Dairy-Free Option – Omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate to prevent the greens from becoming soggy.
Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold. If using warm chicken, store separately and reheat before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, but store the dressing separately and toss it with the salad just before serving to keep it fresh.

What’s the best type of chicken to use?

Rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken, or poached chicken all work well for this salad.

Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Dried cranberries add sweetness, but fresh cranberries can be used if finely chopped and mixed with a little honey or sugar.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just check your dressing ingredients to be sure.

Can I use store-bought poppy seed dressing?

Absolutely! If short on time, a quality store-bought dressing works just fine.

How do I keep the pecans crunchy?

Store them separately and add them just before serving to maintain their crunch.

Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?

Yes, walnuts, almonds, or cashews all work as great substitutes.

What can I serve with this salad?

Enjoy it with crusty bread, a light soup, or serve it in a wrap for a heartier meal.

How can I make the dressing healthier?

Use light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt as a base to reduce calories and fat.

Can I add avocado?

Yes, diced avocado adds creaminess and pairs well with the other flavors in the salad.

Conclusion

Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is a refreshing, flavorful dish that’s easy to make and packed with nutrients. Whether you enjoy it as a light meal, sandwich filling, or wrap, it’s a deliciously satisfying option for any occasion.