Description
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Toasting Pecans: Toasting the pecans brings out a deeper flavor and a lovely crunch. If you prefer a milder taste, feel free to skip this step and use raw pecans.
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Make it Spicy: For a little extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the salad mix.
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Substitutions:
- Greek Yogurt: You can swap the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative.
- Honey Substitute: If you prefer less sweetness, you can reduce the honey or replace it with maple syrup for a different flavor.
- Dried Fruit: If cranberries aren’t your favorite, try substituting them with raisins or chopped dried apricots.
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Serving Suggestions: This chicken salad is versatile and can be served on croissants, in wraps, or over a bed of greens. It’s also delicious when served with a side of fresh fruit or a light soup.
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This Chicken Salad is a creamy and savory dish with tender rotisserie chicken, crunchy pecans, and sweet dried cranberries. It’s perfect for a quick meal on croissants, served with crackers, or enjoyed with a side of fresh veggies!
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 2 cups prepared rotisserie chicken (diced)
- 1/2 cup pecans (coarsely chopped)
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
- 2 stalks celery (thinly sliced)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Dijon-style mustard
- 1 1/2 teaspoons poppy seeds (optional)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
For Serving (Optional):
- Croissants or other sandwich rolls
- Thinly sliced apples
- Celery sticks
- Crackers
Instructions
- Optional: Toast the pecans in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant, stirring occasionally. Set them aside to cool, then finely chop them.
- In a large bowl, combine all ingredients listed under “Salad.” Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir gently until everything is well coated. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Serve with your choice of sides—on croissants with lettuce, or alongside apples, celery sticks, and crackers. Enjoy!
Notes
-
Toasting Pecans: Toasting the pecans brings out a deeper flavor and a lovely crunch. If you prefer a milder taste, feel free to skip this step and use raw pecans.
-
Make it Spicy: For a little extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the salad mix.
-
Substitutions:
- Greek Yogurt: You can swap the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative.
- Honey Substitute: If you prefer less sweetness, you can reduce the honey or replace it with maple syrup for a different flavor.
- Dried Fruit: If cranberries aren’t your favorite, try substituting them with raisins or chopped dried apricots.
-
Serving Suggestions: This chicken salad is versatile and can be served on croissants, in wraps, or over a bed of greens. It’s also delicious when served with a side of fresh fruit or a light soup.
-
Make Ahead: This salad stores well in the fridge and can be made a day ahead for busy days. The flavors will even improve after marinating for a few hours.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes (for toasting pecans, optional)
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing, Toasting (optional)
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Chicken salad, rotisserie chicken, pecan salad, easy chicken salad, creamy chicken salad