Embark on a culinary journey with a delightful Chicken Salad with cranberries that perfectly embodies the essence of refreshing meals. Through incorporating seasonal ingredients, it’s tailor-made for wholesome dining. Not only is this chicken salad nutritious and filling, but it also features a mix of flavors that sing in harmony. Whether you choose to serve it for a lunch gathering or a simple family dinner, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household.
As a child, I watched my grandmother skillfully blend unexpected ingredients in her tiny kitchen, everything from robust meats to delicate fruits. One of my fondest memories is of this delightful dish, where the tartness of cranberries danced gracefully among tender pieces of chicken. Holidays were never complete without a huge bowl of this flavorful salad, bringing together three generations around our family table. Her rendition of this timeless classic has inspired me to share its magic with the world.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chicken Salad is not just another dish; it’s an experience that combines nostalgia with modern flavors. Unique Pairing – The combination of juicy chicken breast with tangy cranberries adds an irresistible twist to the traditional salad. Easy Preparation – With easy steps and readily available ingredients, you don’t need to be a gourmet chef to whip up this delectable dish. Versatile and Nutritious – Packed with protein, it works well for different diet plans and occasions. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead option for meal-prepping, saving you time and effort.
Ingredients Notes
For a wonderful Chicken Salad with cranberries, sourcing quality ingredients is key. Chicken Breast: Use fresh, organic chicken breast for the best taste. You can also use rotisserie chicken for ease of preparation. Cranberries: Opt for dried cranberries from your local farmers’ market or a reputable brand. If they’re too tart, you can soak them in warm water with a touch of honey. Mayonnaise: A high-quality mayonnaise or Greek yogurt gives the salad a rich, creamy texture. For those looking to reduce calories, try a light version.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preparation: Gather all your ingredients and measure them out. Chop the chicken breast into bite-sized cubes and set aside. Make sure the cranberries are plump and any other vegetables are prepped.
Step 2
Cooking Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a teaspoon of olive oil before adding the chicken pieces. Season with salt and pepper. Sauté until thoroughly cooked, roughly 6-8 minutes.
Step 3
Mixing Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cranberries, chopped celery, and toasted walnuts. Toss gently to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
Step 4
Preparing the Dressing: In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Step 5
Assembling the Salad: Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture. Stir gently to coat everything evenly. Adjust for seasonings and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
Storage Options
To keep your Chicken Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days. For those considering freezing, note that freezing may change its texture due to the mayonnaise, but it’s still safe to freeze for up to one month. To reheat, allow it to thaw naturally in the fridge for about 24 hours.
Variations & Substitutions
For a more festive twist, consider adding diced apples or pears. If you’re avoiding mayonnaise, substitute it with avocado for a creamy texture. Try switching out cranberries for grapes for a different sweetness profile. Vegetarians can swap chicken for chickpeas, creating a stunning chickpea salad with cranberries.
Serving Suggestions
This vibrant chicken salad is perfect for various occasions. Serve it on a bed of fresh greens for a contrasting texture. It makes a hearty sandwich filler or a wrap. Suitable for picnics, potlucks, or even as a light main course during a busy weekday. Pair with a glass of chilled white wine for a refreshing meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use grilled chicken instead? Absolutely! Grilled chicken adds a smoky flavor. Just ensure it’s not overly seasoned to keep the balance of flavors. Grilling the chicken adds depth and results in a slightly firmer texture, bringing a delightful contrast to the salad.
What can I do with leftovers? Leftover chicken salad can be transformed into a dip by adding more mayonnaise or yogurt. It works as a fantastic topping for crackers or as a stuffing for bell peppers. Also, consider mixing it into pasta for a wholesome cold Pasta Salad, offering a new meal with every bite.
How can I make this salad dairy-free? To make it dairy-free, skip the Greek yogurt and use more of the mayonnaise or opt for a dairy-free yogurt. Ensure that the mayonnaise chosen is also dairy-free, and you’ve got a delicious yet complete salad that caters to dairy sensitivities.
In summary, this chicken salad with cranberries effortlessly combines the tartness of cranberries with juicy, tender chicken to deliver a dish both eye-catching and palate-pleasing. Perfect for any meal, this salad adapts easily to any dietary requirement without compromising flavor or satisfaction. Dive into your kitchen, and let this dish become a staple in your household, just as it has been in mine.
chicken salad with cranberries
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast chopped
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup celery diced
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 0.5 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large bowl, combine chopped chicken, dried cranberries, and diced celery.
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise and lemon juice until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss until well coated.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
