If you’re looking for a dish that perfectly balances creamy, tangy, sweet, and crunchy, you have to try this Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad Recipe. It brings together tender shredded chicken, the sweetness of craisins, and the satisfying crunch of toasted walnuts all tossed in a zesty, creamy dressing. This salad isn’t just a meal; it’s a flavor celebration in every bite, ideal for lunches, picnics, or even a light dinner. Once you experience its bright flavors and inviting textures, it’ll quickly become a favorite you turn to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad Recipe lies in its simplicity, yet every ingredient plays an essential role in building its classic flavor profile and luscious texture. You’ll find creamy, crunchy, sweet, and savory notes all coming together thanks to these thoughtfully selected ingredients.
- ¾ cup mayo: Provides the creamy base that brings richness to the salad without overpowering other flavors.
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt: Adds tang and lightness, balancing the mayo perfectly for a fresh finish.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Injects a bright acidity that lifts the entire salad and keeps it refreshing.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Offers a subtle sharpness that enhances the flavor complexity.
- 1 teaspoon garlic paste: Brings a gentle savory depth without being overwhelming.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Essential to enhance and marry all the flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon pepper: Adds a mild kick to keep the taste vibrant.
- 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded: The star ingredient, tender and juicy, making this salad hearty and satisfying.
- ¾ cup craisins: Sweet and tart dried cranberries that give a beautiful burst of color and contrast.
- ½ cup chopped walnuts, toasted: Adds a toasty crunch and richness essential for texture balance.
- 1 celery stalk, chopped: Provides a crisp bite that brightens each forkful.
- 3 scallions, diced: Infuses a mild onion flavor and a touch of fresh green color.
- Green leaf lettuce for serving: Provides a fresh, crunchy base especially if you choose to serve the salad as a sandwich or wrap.
How to Make Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
Start by whisking together the mayo, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic paste, salt, and pepper in a medium-sized bowl. This creamy mixture is the heart of the salad and should be smooth and well-combined to evenly coat every ingredient.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
Next, fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken along with the craisins, toasted walnuts, chopped celery, and half of the diced scallions. Incorporating half of the scallions now will give you a balanced onion flavor throughout without overpowering the other ingredients.
Step 3: Prepare to Serve
Once everything is mixed well, your salad is ready to be served. You can scoop it onto a bed of green leaf lettuce or use it as a spread for sandwiches or wraps. Reserve the remaining scallions for garnish to add a pretty, fresh finishing touch.
How to Serve Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Garnish your Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad Recipe with the reserved diced scallions for a pop of freshness. You can also sprinkle a few extra toasted walnut pieces or some whole craisins on top to make it visually appealing and add an extra crunch.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with crisp, buttery crackers or fresh fruit slices like apple or pear for a complementary sweet crunch. For something heartier, try serving it alongside a light soup or a bowl of mixed greens dressed simply with vinaigrette.
Creative Ways to Present
Elevate your Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad Recipe by serving it inside hollowed-out avocados or stuffed into mini pita pockets for charming finger food. You can even pile it atop toasted crostini for an elegant appetizer that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The salad will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep or easy lunches throughout the week.
Freezing
This Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad Recipe is not ideal for freezing because the texture of mayonnaise, yogurt, and fresh ingredients like celery will change once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within the next few days after preparation.
Reheating
Since this is a cold salad, reheating is not necessary. Just give it a gentle stir after refrigeration to redistribute the dressing and flavors before serving again.
FAQs
Can I use cooked chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! While rotisserie chicken adds convenience and flavor, you can use any cooked, shredded chicken you have on hand. Just make sure it’s well-seasoned and tender for the best results.
Is there a substitute for Greek yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt, sour cream or extra mayo can work as a substitute, though Greek yogurt adds a nice tang and a lighter texture that balances the salad beautifully.
Can I use different nuts instead of walnuts?
Yes, pecans or almonds make great alternatives if you want a slightly different crunch or flavor. Just toast them lightly for the best texture and taste.
How can I make this salad vegan?
To make a vegan version of this Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad Recipe, swap the chicken for chickpeas or tofu, and use vegan mayo and yogurt alternatives. This adaptation still captures the creamy, crunchy, and sweet elements of the dish.
What can I serve with this salad for a full meal?
This salad pairs beautifully with crusty bread or whole grain wraps for a satisfying meal. Adding a side of fresh fruit or a vegetable soup rounds out the plate perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad Recipe is a delightful mix of textures and flavors that I just can’t get enough of. Creamy, crunchy, sweet, and tangy all at once, it’s perfect when you want something quick but truly satisfying. So next time you want a dish that feels fresh but comforting, give this recipe a try—you’ll soon see why it’s such a beloved classic in so many kitchens.
Print
Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.5 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad combines tender shredded rotisserie chicken with a creamy dressing made from mayo, Greek yogurt, and zesty Dijon mustard. Enhanced with crunchy toasted walnuts, sweet-tart craisins, crisp celery, and fresh scallions, it makes a perfect, refreshing lunch or light dinner served on green leaf lettuce or your favorite bread.
Ingredients
Dressing
- ¾ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic paste
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Salad
- 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded
- ¾ cup craisins (dried cranberries)
- ½ cup toasted chopped walnuts
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 3 scallions, diced (reserve half for garnish)
To Serve
- Green leaf lettuce leaves
- Bread of choice (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic paste, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine salad ingredients: Add the shredded rotisserie chicken, craisins, toasted walnuts, chopped celery, and half of the diced scallions into the bowl with the dressing. Gently fold everything together until the chicken is evenly coated with the dressing and the ingredients are well distributed.
- Serve: Place a few green leaf lettuce leaves on your serving plate or bread. Spoon a generous portion of the chicken salad onto the lettuce or bread. Garnish with the remaining scallions for a fresh finish. Serve immediately or chill until ready to serve.
Notes
- Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor, but you can also use cooked and shredded chicken breasts or thighs.
- To toast walnuts, place them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant.
- For a lighter version, increase the amount of Greek yogurt and reduce mayonnaise.
- This salad can be served chilled and makes excellent leftovers stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Additions like diced apples or grapes can add extra sweetness and crunch if desired.
