Cranberry chicken salad is a delightful fusion of tender chicken, tangy cranberries, and rich pine nuts. This salad strikes a balance between sweet and savory, creating a refreshing dish that is both light and satisfying. Perfect for a quick lunch, picnic, or even a casual dinner, its simplicity belies the depth of flavor packed into every bite.

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Ingredients List

To create this flavorful cranberry chicken salad, gather a combination of simple yet impactful ingredients. Start with 1/2 cup of pine nuts, toasted lightly to bring out their natural crunch, and 4 cups of diced, cooked chicken breast, providing a hearty base. For a burst of sweetness, add 3/4 cup of dried cranberries, which beautifully contrast the savory elements. One large diced celery stalk introduces a fresh, crisp texture, while 1–2 thinly sliced green onions add a subtle, savory note. The dressing comes together with 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, giving the salad its creamy texture, and a dash of 1/4–1/2 teaspoon of dry mustard powder or 1–2 teaspoons of Dijon mustard, which offers a slight tangy kick. Season with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring all the flavors are perfectly balanced.

Feel free to adjust quantities to suit your personal preference. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility—play around with the ingredients and make it your own.

Instructions

Begin by gathering all your ingredients to make the process smooth and efficient. In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken, celery, green onions, cranberries, and toasted pine nuts. Stir gently with a fork, ensuring that the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Next, gradually mix in the mayonnaise. Start with half a cup, and if the mixture feels too dry, add an extra tablespoon at a time until you achieve the desired consistency. The mayonnaise should bind everything together without overwhelming the freshness of the ingredients. If you’re opting for mustard, mix it in at this stage—whether you choose the dry mustard powder for a sharp flavor or Dijon mustard for a milder tang is up to you.

Season with salt and pepper, adjusting to your taste. Once all the ingredients are well incorporated, allow the salad to rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This not only chills the salad but also lets the flavors meld together, creating a harmonious blend that enhances the overall taste. Serve chilled and enjoy!

1- Recipe Tips

Getting the Right Texture: The key to the perfect cranberry chicken salad lies in the balance of creamy and crunchy. Toast your pine nuts carefully—keep a close eye to avoid burning them, as they can go from golden brown to overdone in seconds. When it comes to the mayonnaise, start conservatively, adding more only if needed to avoid drowning the ingredients in excess creaminess.
Choosing the Chicken: Use chicken breast that has been roasted or poached for the best results. These methods keep the meat juicy and tender. Avoid overly shredding the chicken—small, neat cubes are ideal for a more satisfying texture.
Toasting Pine Nuts Perfectly: Toast pine nuts over medium heat in a dry skillet, stirring constantly. They should be lightly golden and fragrant within a few minutes. Don’t walk away, as pine nuts toast quickly and can easily burn.

2- What to Serve With This Recipe

Cranberry chicken salad is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a range of sides and accompaniments, enhancing its appeal.

Bread and Sandwich Options:
Serve this salad on buttery croissants for an indulgent sandwich, or use whole wheat bread for a more wholesome option. For a lower-carb twist, serve the salad atop crisp lettuce leaves or in a hearty whole-grain wrap.
Salads and Sides:
Complement the richness of the salad with a light side, like a mixed green salad or a simple cucumber and tomato medley. You can also pair it with roasted vegetables such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts to add warmth to the meal.
Ideal Drinks to Accompany:
A chilled glass of light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, is an ideal pairing. For non-alcoholic options, consider refreshing iced tea with a hint of lemon, or a sparkling water with a splash of cranberry juice to echo the flavors in the salad.

3- Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely. In fact, making the salad a few hours in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and give it a gentle stir before serving.
What Can I Substitute for Pine Nuts?
If pine nuts aren’t available, or you’re catering to dietary restrictions, you can substitute them with chopped walnuts, almonds, or even pecans. Each will bring a unique flavor and crunch to the salad.
How Long Will This Salad Last in the Refrigerator?
This salad will stay fresh for up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator. After that, the mayonnaise may begin to break down, and the texture will become less appealing.

Variations and Add-ins

Feel free to get creative with this cranberry chicken salad! You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. Add in diced apples or grapes for an extra sweet touch, or swap the pine nuts for sunflower seeds or slivered almonds for a nutty crunch. If you prefer a tangier flavor, a splash of lemon juice or a handful of fresh herbs like parsley or dill can elevate the dish to new heights.

For a heartier version, stir in some cooked quinoa or wild rice to make it more filling. This makes it a great option for meal prep, as you can stretch the salad into several satisfying meals throughout the week.

Serving Suggestions

This cranberry chicken salad is versatile when it comes to serving. For a light lunch, enjoy it on its own or with crackers on the side. If you’re hosting a gathering, try serving the salad in lettuce cups for a fresh, finger-food option. For a more substantial meal, serve it on a bed of arugula or spinach, or transform it into a sandwich with soft brioche buns. Its bright flavors and textures make it a hit no matter how it’s served.

Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or something to impress at a potluck, cranberry chicken salad is a go-to recipe. Its blend of savory chicken, sweet cranberries, and rich pine nuts makes every bite flavorful and satisfying. Keep this recipe in your repertoire for a dish that’s as flexible as it is delicious, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

1/2 cup pine nuts, lightly toasted
4 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
3/4 cup dried cranberries
1 large celery stalk, diced
1 – 2 green onions, thinly sliced
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 – 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard powder, or 1 – 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken, celery, green onions, cranberries, and toasted pine nuts. Gently stir everything together using a fork. Gradually mix in the mayonnaise, ensuring it coats the ingredients evenly. If the consistency seems a bit dry, add an extra tablespoon of mayonnaise at a time until it reaches your preferred texture.

Season with salt and pepper to your liking, and give the mixture a final stir. Let the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Serve chilled.