Quick Description
A creamy, high-protein chicken salad loaded with tender shredded chicken, sweet cranberries, crunchy pecans, and crisp celery. Perfect for meal prep, sandwiches, wraps, or enjoying on its own.
Servings & Timing
Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes (using pre-cooked chicken)
Total Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients List
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1/2 cup celery, chopped
- 1/3 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise for richer flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Shred cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Rotisserie chicken works great for convenience.
2. Mix the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice.
3. Combine Ingredients
Add shredded chicken, chopped celery, cranberries, and pecans to the bowl. Mix gently until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
4. Chill & Serve
Refrigerate for 10–15 minutes for flavors to meld. Serve chilled as a salad, in a sandwich, or wrapped in lettuce leaves.
Serving Suggestions
- Spoon over mixed greens for a healthy salad
- Stuff into a whole-grain wrap
- Serve with crackers for a snack
- Use as a filling for pita pockets
Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
- Keeps well for meal prep lunches.
Tips & Variations
- Protein boost: Add extra cooked chicken or a boiled egg.
- Flavor twist: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or dill.
- Nut variation: Swap pecans with walnuts or almonds.
- Dairy-free: Use vegan mayo instead of Greek yogurt.
Estimated Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: ~220
- Protein: 28g
- Carbs: 8g
- Fat: 10g
