Name: Delicious Chicken Salad with Cranberries
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked, shredded boneless skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup dried cranberries; 1 cup diced celery; 1 cup halved red grapes; ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (toasted); ½ cup Greek yogurt; 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped); 2 tbsp lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

The moment you take a bite of chicken salad with cranberries, you’re hit with a symphony of flavors. The tender chicken dances cheekily with the tartness of the cranberries, while the crunchy nuts add a delightful texture that makes your taste buds sing. Imagine sitting outside on a sunny day, the aroma of fresh herbs wafting through the air as you dig into this vibrant dish. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that’s as refreshing as a cool breeze on a hot summer day.

This chicken salad isn’t just for lunches; it’s perfect for picnics, BBQs, or even that fancy brunch you’ve been planning. I still remember the first time I made it for my friends at a backyard gathering. Their faces lit up like they had just discovered treasure in their backyard! Each bite was met with delighted grins and requests for seconds. So let’s dive into this delightful recipe that promises to brighten your day and impress your guests.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This chicken salad with cranberries is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights
Its sweet and savory flavor profile keeps everyone coming back for more
The colorful ingredients create a visually appealing dish that looks fabulous on any table
Enjoy it as a sandwich filling or served on its own for endless versatility

I can still hear my friend exclaiming how this chicken salad was “a game changer” during our picnic last summer!

Essential Ingredients

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

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but adjust based on your crowd size.
Dried Cranberries: Look for plump ones; they bring a burst of sweetness and chewiness.
Celery: Fresh, crunchy celery adds that satisfying crunch we all crave in salads.
Red Grapes: Halved grapes introduce a juicy pop of flavor; green grapes work too if you prefer.
Chopped Walnuts or Pecans: Toast these lightly for an added depth of flavor and crunch.
Greek Yogurt: A healthier alternative to mayo, it keeps the salad creamy without being heavy.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley brings freshness and color; don’t skip this!
Lemon Juice: A splash brightens everything up and balances the sweetness perfectly.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all those wonderful flavors.

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

Let’s Make it together

Cook the Chicken: Start by poaching your chicken breasts in boiling water seasoned with salt. Let them simmer until cooked through, about 15-20 minutes.

Cool and Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and allow it to cool slightly before shredding it into bite-sized pieces.

Prepare the Dressing: In a large bowl, mix Greek yogurt with lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth. This will be your creamy dressing.

Add in Your Ingredients: Toss in shredded chicken, cranberries, celery, grapes, walnuts or pecans, and parsley into the dressing; stir gently until everything is coated.

Taste Test Time!: Give your salad a taste test! Adjust seasoning if needed—maybe more lemon juice or salt to suit your palate.

Chill Before Serving!: Refrigerate your chicken salad with cranberries for at least 30 minutes before serving. This lets all those flavors mingle beautifully!

Now you’re ready to serve this delightful dish that’s sure to impress friends and family alike!

You Must Know

This delightful chicken salad with cranberries is a refreshing twist on a classic
The sweet and tart cranberries, combined with tender chicken, create a satisfying dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner
Plus, it’s simple to make and keeps well for meal prep

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken breast first to lock in moisture, then let it cool before shredding. While cooling, prepare your veggies and dressing for an efficient workflow.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap cranberries with raisins or add nuts for crunch. Experimenting with herbs like dill can also enhance the flavor profile of your chicken salad.

Storing & Reheating

Store your chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For best taste, serve cold and avoid reheating as it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To ensure your chicken remains juicy during cooking, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F
Don’t overmix ingredients; gently fold to keep the textures distinct
Fresh herbs elevate flavor, so don’t skip them if you have them on hand

Sharing my first attempt at this chicken salad was hilarious— my dog stole half of it when I turned my back! Thankfully, I still had enough left for everyone else to enjoy.

FAQ

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time.

What type of cranberries should I use?

Dried cranberries are ideal; they add sweetness and texture to the salad.

How can I make this dish healthier?

Opt for Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter dressing option.