Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite salad: *Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad*! It’s like a burst of sunshine on your plate, refreshing and oh-so-nutritious. I remember the first time I made this for a summer picnic—everyone raved about it! The combination of tender shredded chicken, sweet cranberries, and crunchy walnuts creates the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up! Whether you’re enjoying it on a crisp bed of greens or as a tasty sandwich, this salad is a delightful way to nourish yourself without sacrificing flavor. Trust me, you’ll want to make it again and again!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious *Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad*. It’s super simple, and I promise you’ll love how everything comes together!
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure your chicken is nice and tender, and don’t skimp on those crunchy walnuts! They add such a lovely texture to the salad. Ready to mix it all up? Let’s go!
How to Prepare *Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad*
Preparing this *Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad* is a breeze, and I’m here to guide you through each step. Just follow along, and you’ll have a delicious salad ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken, 1 cup of dried cranberries, 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts, and 1/2 cup of diced celery. Use a spatula or spoon to mix them gently, so all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of mayonnaise and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard. This creamy dressing will bring all the flavors together!
- Pour the mayonnaise mixture over the chicken mixture. Stir thoroughly until every bite is coated in that delightful dressing.
- Add salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be shy—seasoning is key to making those flavors pop!
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
And there you have it! Once the time is up, your salad will be perfectly chilled and ready to serve. Enjoy it straight from the bowl or on your favorite greens. Yum!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the good stuff—nutrition! This *Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad* is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients to keep you feeling great. Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional values per serving:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Sugar: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, like the type of mayonnaise or chicken, so feel free to adjust as needed. But trust me, you’re still getting a wholesome meal that’s as nourishing as it is tasty!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s super quick to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings!
- The refreshing taste of cranberries paired with crunchy walnuts is simply irresistible.
- Nutritious ingredients make this salad a guilt-free indulgence.
- Versatile serving options—enjoy it on a bed of greens, as a sandwich filling, or with your favorite crackers.
- Can be made ahead of time, letting the flavors deepen while it chills in the fridge.
- Gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser—everyone will be asking for the recipe!
Tips for Success
Let me share some of my favorite tips to make your *Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad* absolutely perfect! Trust me, a few little tweaks can elevate this dish to a whole new level.
- Use freshly cooked chicken: If you have time, roast or poach your chicken just before making the salad. It adds an incredible flavor and tenderness that really shines through!
- Chill longer for better flavor: While 30 minutes is the minimum, letting the salad chill for a couple of hours (or even overnight) really allows the flavors to meld beautifully. It’s worth the wait!
- Experiment with the dressing: Feel free to adjust the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard to your taste. If you like it creamier, add more mayo; for a tangier kick, increase the mustard!
- Add fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or dill can brighten up the salad even more. Just chop them finely and mix them in for a burst of freshness!
- Customize your nuts: If walnuts aren’t your thing, you can swap them out for pecans or almonds. They’ll add a different crunch and flavor that’s just as delightful.
- Mix in some fruit: For an extra fruity twist, consider adding diced apples or grapes. They’ll bring a lovely sweetness that complements the cranberries perfectly!
By keeping these tips in mind, you’re sure to whip up a *Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad* that’s not only delicious but also impresses everyone at the table!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got your delicious *Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad* ready, it’s time to think about how to serve it up! I love how versatile this salad is—you can enjoy it in so many ways!
- On a bed of greens: For a light and refreshing meal, serve the salad over a mix of baby spinach, arugula, or your favorite salad greens. It adds a lovely crunch and makes for a beautiful presentation!
- As a sandwich filling: Spread the salad between two slices of whole grain or sourdough bread for a satisfying sandwich. You can even use a croissant for a touch of indulgence!
- With crackers: Pair it with your favorite crackers or pita chips for a fun snack or appetizer. It’s perfect for gatherings, and everyone can scoop as they please!
- Stuffed in a wrap: Roll the salad up in a tortilla with some lettuce and sliced tomatoes for a quick and portable lunch. It’s great for picnics or on-the-go meals!
- As a topping for baked potatoes: For a hearty twist, spoon the salad over a warm baked potato. The creamy dressing combined with the chicken and cranberries is simply delightful!
- Garnished with fresh herbs: Sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top before serving to add a pop of color and flavor. It elevates the dish and makes it look even more appetizing!
Whichever way you choose to serve it, I promise this *Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad* will be a hit! Enjoy experimenting with different serving styles, and let your creativity shine!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about storing your delicious *Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad*! You know, it’s always tempting to eat it all at once, but good news—you can save some for later!
To store any leftovers, simply transfer the salad into an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh and prevents any unwanted odors from the fridge from sneaking in. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Now, one thing to note: this salad is best enjoyed cold, so there’s really no need to reheat it. If you happen to have some left after a day or two, just give it a little stir before serving to redistribute those yummy flavors. And if it seems a bit thick after chilling, feel free to add a touch more mayonnaise or a splash of lemon juice to freshen it up!
Trust me, this *Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad* is just as delightful the next day as it is fresh! Enjoy it as a quick lunch, snack, or a light dinner. You’re going to love having it on hand!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that saves time while still giving you that delicious flavor. Just shred it up and you’re good to go!
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise, you can use Greek yogurt or avocado for a healthier twist. They’ll give you that creamy texture while adding their own unique flavors!
How long does this salad keep in the fridge?
This *Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad* can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to keep it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness!
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, making it ahead of time is actually a great idea! It allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just chill it for at least 30 minutes before serving, or even overnight for the best taste.
What can I add to make it more filling?
If you want to make it more filling, consider adding some cooked quinoa or brown rice. They’ll boost the nutrition and make it a heartier meal!
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes! This *Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad* is gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions. Just double-check any ingredients you use, like mustard or yogurt, to ensure they’re gluten-free as well!
Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
I wouldn’t recommend using fresh cranberries as they’re quite tart. Dried cranberries add sweetness and a chewy texture, which is what makes this salad so delightful. Stick with the dried ones for the best flavor!
What should I serve it with?
This salad is super versatile! You can serve it on a bed of greens, as a sandwich filling, or even with crackers for a light snack. The options are endless!
Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad: 7 Reasons You’ll Adore It
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A refreshing and nutritious salad featuring chicken, cranberries, and walnuts.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cranberries, dried
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, dried cranberries, chopped walnuts, and diced celery.
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise and Dijon mustard.
- Pour the mayonnaise mixture over the chicken mixture and stir until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Serve on a bed of greens or as a sandwich filling.
- Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad