Delicious Cranberry Chicken Salad Recipe for Every Occasion

Cranberry chicken salad is the perfect dish to brighten your day. Imagine tender chicken mingling with the tartness of cranberries, all nestled in a creamy dressing that makes every bite a flavor explosion. The colors pop like a fireworks show on the Fourth of July, and the aroma wafts through the air, beckoning you to the table.

This delightful dish isn’t just food; it’s a memory waiting to happen. I remember the first time I made cranberry chicken salad for a picnic with friends. We set out our blankets under a sprawling oak tree, laughter echoing as we indulged in this refreshing meal. Cranberry vanilla loaf recipe It quickly became our go-to recipe for gatherings, birthday parties, and lazy Sunday brunches. Get ready to dive into an amazing flavor experience that will leave your taste buds dancing!

Ingredients for cranberry chicken salad

For more inspiration, check out this hot honey chicken recipe recipe.

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work well; adjust based on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding.
• Dried Cranberries: These little gems add sweetness and texture; look for unsweetened ones if you prefer less sugar.
• Celery Stalks: Chopped finely for that satisfying crunch; fresh celery is best for maximum crispiness.
• Red Onion: A touch of finely chopped red onion brings zing; use sparingly if you’re not a fan of strong flavors.
• Mayonnaise: Use regular or light mayo depending on your preference; this adds creaminess that binds everything together.
• Greek Yogurt: For added creaminess without the guilt; feel free to replace part of the mayo with yogurt for a healthier twist.
• Lemon Juice: A splash brightens up the flavors; fresh-squeezed lemon juice works wonders here.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make cranberry chicken salad

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Start by poaching or grilling your chicken breasts until cooked through—roughly 15-20 minutes should do it depending on thickness. Once cooked, let them cool before chopping into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Prepare Aromatics

While your chicken cools, chop up the celery and red onion so they are nice and fine—this helps distribute their flavors evenly throughout the salad.

Step 3: Mix Dressing

In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy—taste it like it’s your secret potion!

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add chopped chicken, dried cranberries, celery, and red onion into the mayo mixture. Gently fold everything together until all ingredients are well-coated in that luscious dressing.

Step 5: Chill

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer it into an airtight container. Let it chill in the fridge for about an hour so all those flavors can mingle—this step is crucial!

Step 6: Serve

Transfer your vibrant cranberry chicken salad onto plates or in bowls. You can serve it straight up or alongside greens for extra flair.

Serve this incredible dish at picnics or family gatherings with pride! Enjoy every crunchy bite drizzled with enthusiasm!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first to give it a golden crust, then let it rest while you chop the veggies and prepare the dressing. Mixing everything together while the chicken cools ensures optimal flavor in every bite.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out cranberries for raisins or add nuts for crunch. A dash of spicy mustard can elevate the dressing, while fresh herbs like dill or parsley can introduce a fresh twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover cranberry chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Simply enjoy it cold, as reheating might compromise its delightful texture and flavor.

Sharing this recipe with friends led to a memorable picnic where everyone came back for seconds, complementing my culinary skills. Who knew a simple salad could steal the show?

FAQs:

What ingredients are needed for cranberry chicken salad?

To make a delicious cranberry chicken salad, you will need cooked chicken breast, fresh or dried cranberries, celery, red onion, and a creamy dressing made from mayonnaise or Greek yogurt. Some recipes also call for chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to add crunch. Pomegranate glazed chicken thighs Fresh herbs like parsley can enhance the flavor. Lemon and herb roasted chicken Ensure your chicken is seasoned well before mixing it with the other ingredients, as this will elevate the overall taste of your dish.

How can I serve cranberry chicken salad?

Cranberry chicken salad can be served in various ways. You can enjoy it on a bed of greens for a light meal or sandwich it between two slices of your favorite bread for a satisfying lunch. It also works well as a filling for wraps or stuffed in avocados for a low-carb option. Pairing it with crackers or pita chips makes for an excellent appetizer at gatherings. The versatility of this salad makes it suitable for any occasion.

Can I make cranberry chicken salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare cranberry chicken salad ahead of time. In fact, making it a few hours in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. However, if using fresh ingredients like celery or nuts, consider adding them right before serving to maintain their crunchiness. This makes it an ideal choice for meal prep or potluck gatherings. For more inspiration, check out this chicken burrito bowls recipe recipe.

What variations can I try with cranberry chicken salad?

You can create many variations of cranberry chicken salad to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding different fruits like apples or grapes for extra sweetness and texture. Swap out the mayo for avocado to make it healthier or use flavored dressings such as poppy seed or vinaigrette. For a spicier kick, incorporate jalapeños or sriracha sauce into the mix. The possibilities are endless when creating your perfect cranberry chicken salad.

Conclusion for cranberry chicken salad:

In conclusion, cranberry chicken salad is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with sweet cranberries and crunchy vegetables. Its versatility allows you to enjoy it in various ways—whether on greens, in sandwiches, or stuffed in avocados. Cranberry orange muffins Preparing this dish ahead of time enhances its flavors and makes it perfect for meal planning. With numerous variations available, you can easily customize this recipe to suit your tastes while enjoying its healthy benefits.

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Cranberry Chicken Salad

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• Author: Clare Schmidt
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Cranberry chicken salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with the sweetness of dried cranberries, crunchy celery, and zesty red onion, all enveloped in a creamy dressing. Perfect for picnics, brunches, or quick lunches, this refreshing salad can be served on greens, in sandwiches, or as a delightful side. With its easy preparation and customizable options, it’s sure to become a favorite at any gathering.

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Ingredients

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• 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1 cup finely chopped celery (about 2 stalks)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice

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Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken: Poach or grill the chicken breasts until cooked through (about 15-20 minutes). Allow to cool before chopping into bite-sized pieces.
2. Prepare Aromatics: While the chicken cools, chop the celery and red onion finely.
3. Mix Dressing: In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper; stir until smooth.
4. Combine Ingredients: Fold chopped chicken, cranberries, celery, and red onion into the dressing until well coated.
5. Chill: Cover the salad and refrigerate for about an hour to let flavors meld.
6. Serve: Enjoy chilled on greens or in sandwiches.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 24g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 21g
• Cholesterol: 70mg