When it comes to quick, healthy, and delicious meals, this Cranberry Chicken Salad recipe takes the crown. It’s a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors, with cranberries adding a fruity burst and chicken, making it filling and protein-packed.
Whether you’re hosting a brunch, packing a lunch, or preparing a potluck dish, this recipe is guaranteed to delight. Best of all, it’s quick to whip up with simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen! There’s something so comforting about recipes that bring a hint of sweetness to a savory dish.
This chicken salad with cranberries checks all the boxes with its crunchy veggies, creamy dressing, and chewy cranberry bites. Trust me, you’ll savor every bite!
Ingredients
- 12 ounces cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Key Ingredients
- Chicken: Use leftover cooked chicken or a rotisserie chicken for ease.
- Cranberries: The natural sweetness balances the creamy and savory elements.
- Greek yogurt: Adds tangy creaminess while being lighter than mayo.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Servings: 4
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Spoon or spatula for mixing
How to Make This Recipe?
Making this Cranberry Chicken Salad is not only easy but also a lot of fun! It’s as simple as mixing up a handful of fresh ingredients, allowing you to focus on enjoying the process. Here’s how to create your perfect salad.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by chopping the red onion and celery into small pieces. The smaller and more uniform the dice, the better the texture in the salad. Shred or cube your cooked chicken breast and add it to a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Mix the Dressing
Combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, and a dash of salt and pepper in a small bowl. Stir until the seasonings are well-blended into a creamy dressing.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
Toss the chicken, dried cranberries, celery, and onion together in a large bowl. Pour the prepared dressing over the mixture and gently stir until everything is evenly coated.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Transfer the salad to the fridge and chill for about 20 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve as a sandwich filling, in wraps, or over a bed of greens.
Why I Love Making This Recipe?
I adore this Cranberry Chicken Salad because it’s a crowd-pleaser while also being so easy to prepare. For me, it’s the kind of recipe I can whip up on a busy weekday but also feel proud to bring to any party or event. The cranberries lend a delightful burst of sweetness, while using Greek yogurt keeps it light yet satisfying. It’s also a dish that brings a sense of nostalgia, reminding me of family gatherings and lunch spreads from my childhood.
Tips and Variations
This recipe is versatile and can adapt to your preferences or available ingredients. I’ve tried several variations over time, and here are my favorites!
- For added crunch, toss in a handful of slivered almonds or chopped walnuts.
- Replace cranberries with diced apples or grapes for a fresher fruit flavor.
- Swap Greek yogurt with sour cream for a slightly tangier dressing.
- If you like a touch of spice, mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper.
These small tweaks allow you to make this recipe uniquely yours every time!
Serving Suggestions
This Cranberry Chicken Salad is truly versatile in how you serve it. Here are my favorite ways to enjoy it:
- Spread on crusty bread for a satisfying sandwich.
- Serve it in lettuce cups for a low-carb option.
- Wrap it in a tortilla for a quick and portable meal.
- Top a simple green salad to add some flair and protein.
Storage and Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Since it has a creamy base, it doesn’t freeze well. Stir the salad before serving and adjust the seasoning if needed. If it seems a bit dry after chilling, add a spoonful of Greek yogurt to bring back the creaminess.
Nutritional Information
For each serving, here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown:
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 12g
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing this recipe, there are a few easy-to-make mistakes to watch out for. Here’s what I’ve learned from my own cooking experience!
- Overdressing the salad: Go easy on the mayo and yogurt to ensure it’s creamy but not soggy.
- Not chilling the salad: This step enhances flavor, so don’t skip it!
- Using overly sweet cranberries: Look for dried cranberries without added sugar if you want to control sweetness.
- Forgetting to balance the flavors: Taste as you go and adjust salt or pepper to your liking.
This Cranberry Chicken Salad is one of those recipes that you’ll find yourself making time and time again. It’s quick, it’s wholesome, and everyone loves it. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a family favorite!
