This Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad is fresh and crunchy, mixing tender chicken with sweet cranberries and crunchy walnuts. It’s perfect for a light lunch or quick snack!
I love how easy it is to whip up. Just toss everything together, and you’re ready to dig in! It’s a tasty way to enjoy your leftovers—no boring meals here! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: You can use any cooked chicken, like rotisserie or leftover from a previous meal. For a lighter option, try using shredded turkey or even cooked chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
Walnuts: I love the crunch walnuts add, but feel free to swap them out for pecans or almonds if you prefer. Just keep in mind that nut allergies mean you can also try pumpkin seeds for a similar texture!
Dried Cranberries: Dried cherries or raisins can be alternatives here. My personal favorite to use instead of cranberries is dried figs, as they give a nice sweetness.
Mayonnaise: If you’re looking for a healthier dressing, substitute Greek yogurt for half or all of the mayo. It makes the salad creamy but provides extra protein!
Honey and Dijon Mustard: Maple syrup is a great substitute for honey if that’s your choice. As for mustard, yellow mustard works in a pinch, but it has a different flavor than Dijon, so adjust accordingly.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Salad Is Flavorful?
The key to a delicious chicken salad lies in the dressing and the balance of ingredients. Start by mixing your mayonnaise, honey, and mustard well. Taste as you go to hit that perfect flavor balance.
- Use a generous amount of salt and pepper. They enhance the overall taste!
- Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes, which helps the flavors blend nicely.
- Don’t hesitate to add more honey or Dijon if you want it sweeter or zestier after tasting!
How to Make Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup celery, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
To Serve:
- Fresh greens (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 30 minutes for chilling. So, in total, you’ll need around 45 minutes to prepare and enjoy this delicious salad!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add your diced cooked chicken, chopped walnuts, dried cranberries, diced celery, and finely chopped red onion. Stir everything together gently so that the ingredients are mixed well but not mushy.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, honey, and Dijon mustard. Add a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix until everything is nice and smooth—this is what will make your salad creamy and flavorful!
3. Mix It All Together:
Pour the dressing over your chicken mixture and stir everything together until all the ingredients are well coated. It should look deliciously mixed! Taste your salad and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or honey to fit your taste.
4. Chill and Serve:
Cover your salad and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes. This allows all the flavors to blend beautifully. When ready to serve, scoop the salad onto a bed of fresh greens if you like, and enjoy your refreshing Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad!
Can I Use Canned Chicken Instead of Cooked Chicken?
Absolutely! Canned chicken is a convenient substitute. Just drain it well and fluff it with a fork to break it up. You might want to skip adding extra salt since canned chicken can be fairly salty.
What If I Don’t Have Walnuts?
No worries! You can easily substitute walnuts with pecans, almonds, or even sunflower seeds for a crunch. Each of these will bring a slightly different flavor, so pick what you enjoy most!
How to Store Leftover Chicken Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as it may thicken up a bit.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This salad is great for make-ahead meals. Prepare it the day before and let it chill in the fridge. The flavors will develop even more overnight, making it taste even better!
