Why You’ll Love Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing Recipe
This salad is a standout for many reasons. It’s quick to prepare, full of fresh ingredients, and completely customizable. The homemade poppy seed dressing adds a creamy tang that pairs beautifully with the sweet cranberries and crunchy pecans. Whether you’re serving it as a light meal or a side dish, this recipe is both satisfying and crowd-pleasing.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Salad:
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
6 cups mixed salad greens
1 cup dried cranberries
1 cup pecans, toasted
Optional additions: sliced apples, feta cheese, or avocado
Poppy Seed Dressing:
1/3 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup milk
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
2 teaspoons poppy seeds
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
-
In a large bowl, combine the salad greens, cooked chicken, dried cranberries, and toasted pecans.
-
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, milk, sugar, and apple cider vinegar until smooth.
-
Stir in the poppy seeds, then season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste.
-
Drizzle the dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
-
Add optional ingredients such as sliced apples, feta cheese, or avocado if desired.
-
Serve immediately, garnished with extra cranberries and pecans if you like.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people and takes approximately 15 minutes to prepare. No cooking is required if the chicken is pre-cooked.
Variations
-
Protein Swap: Substitute the chicken with turkey or rotisserie chicken for a different twist.
-
Nut-Free Option: Use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds if you prefer a nut-free version.
-
Dairy-Free Dressing: Replace the milk and mayo with dairy-free alternatives to make it suitable for dairy-sensitive diets.
-
Add Crunch: Add thinly sliced celery or red onions for extra crunch and flavor.
-
Fruit Boost: Mix in fresh grapes or pomegranate seeds for an extra burst of sweetness.
Storage/Reheating
Store any undressed salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the poppy seed dressing in a separate container, refrigerated, for up to 5 days. Toss the salad with the dressing just before serving. Avoid reheating as this salad is meant to be served cold.
FAQs
How do I cook the chicken for this salad?
You can bake, grill, or poach the chicken. Leftover rotisserie or roasted chicken also works great for convenience.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the salad ingredients in advance but store the dressing separately and toss just before serving to keep it fresh.
What type of greens work best?
Mixed salad greens like spring mix, spinach, or romaine work well. You can also mix in arugula for a peppery bite.
Can I use a store-bought poppy seed dressing?
Yes, but homemade dressing gives a fresher, more customizable flavor. Choose one with similar ingredients for the best match.
How can I make this salad lower in sugar?
Reduce or omit the sugar in the dressing, and choose unsweetened dried cranberries if available.
What’s the best way to toast pecans?
Spread pecans on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 6–8 minutes, stirring once, until fragrant and lightly browned.
Can I add grains to make it more filling?
Yes, quinoa or farro make great additions for added texture and nutrition.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all the ingredients used (especially the dressing components) are gluten-free.
What other cheeses can I use besides feta?
Goat cheese, blue cheese, or shredded sharp cheddar can all add different flavor profiles.
How do I prevent the apples from browning?
Toss apple slices in a little lemon juice before adding them to the salad to keep them fresh-looking.
Conclusion
Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is a flavorful, wholesome dish that’s quick to prepare and easy to love. With its vibrant colors, mix of textures, and sweet-savory balance, it’s perfect for everything from weekday lunches to special gatherings. Try it once, and you’ll want to make it again and again.
