This tasty cranberry walnut chicken salad is a perfect mix of flavors! Juicy chicken, crunchy walnuts, and sweet cranberries come together in a creamy dressing that’s so satisfying.
I love making this salad for lunch—it’s light yet filling. Plus, who can resist that sweet crunch of cranberries? It even gets better as it sits. Perfect for meal prep! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Diced, cooked chicken is the heart of this salad. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or any leftover cooked chicken works too. If you’re vegetarian, try using chopped chickpeas or tofu instead.
Dried Cranberries: They provide a sweet-tart flavor. If you don’t have cranberries, you can substitute with raisins or chopped dried cherries. Just remember that the sweetness level might change a bit based on what you choose.
Walnuts: Chopped walnuts add crunch and richness. If nuts aren’t your thing or if allergies are a concern, try sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds as a nut-free option.
Mayonnaise: This binds everything together, but if you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a great substitute. It adds some protein too! For a vegan version, use a plant-based mayo.
Honey: It’s optional but adds a nice hint of sweetness. You can skip it or use maple syrup if you prefer a different flavor. Agave syrup works well too!
How Can You Ensure Your Chicken Salad is Well Mixed?
Getting an even mix of flavors is key for a great chicken salad. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by adding your diced chicken and all the mix-ins (cranberries, walnuts, celery, red onion) in a big bowl. This allows for easier tossing.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the mayonnaise with honey until it’s smooth. This step prevents clumps in the salad.
- Pour the mayo mixture over the chicken and other ingredients. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently fold everything together, making sure to coat all pieces.
Also, chilling the salad helps the flavors combine better, so don’t skip that step!
How to Make Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup walnuts, chopped
- ¼ cup celery, finely chopped
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lettuce leaves for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chicken salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. Altogether, you’ll have a wonderful meal ready in less than an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Chicken and Ingredients:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Add the diced cooked chicken, dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, finely chopped celery, and red onion. Stir everything together gently until well mixed.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a smaller bowl, mix the mayonnaise with honey if you’re using it. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This will be the dressing for your salad.
3. Combine the Salad with the Dressing:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Pour your creamy mayonnaise mixture over the chicken mixture. Gently stir until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
4. Season and Chill:
Add salt and pepper to taste, mixing it in well. Once you’re happy with the flavor, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will help the flavors blend nicely.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your salad is chilled, it’s time to serve! You can dish it out on a bed of fresh lettuce leaves or use it as a filling for sandwiches. Enjoy your tasty cranberry walnut chicken salad!
Can I Use Canned Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Canned chicken is a convenient substitute. Just drain it well and shred or dice it before mixing it into the salad. It’s a great time-saver if you’re short on time!
What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise?
If you prefer a lighter option or want to avoid mayonnaise, you can substitute Greek yogurt or avocado. Both provide a creamy texture and add a unique flavor to the salad. Adjust the amount to achieve your desired consistency!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh, make sure to consume it within that timeframe, and avoid leaving it out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your chicken salad by adding other ingredients like apples for sweetness, grapes for a burst of flavor, or spinach for extra greens. Just make sure to adjust the dressing as needed to balance out the flavors.
