Quick Description
This High-Protein Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is creamy, crunchy, and perfectly balanced with sweet dried cranberries, buttery pecans, and a smooth poppy seed dressing. Packed with lean chicken breast, it’s a filling, protein-rich meal that works beautifully for lunch, meal prep, or light dinners.
Servings & Timing
Serves: 4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes (uses cooked chicken)
Total Time: ~15 minutes
Ingredients List
Dressing
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp honey (softened)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp poppy seeds
- Salt to taste
Salad
- 4 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped (about 2 chicken breasts)
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- ½ cup dried cranberries
- 4 green onions, chopped
Instructions
-
Make the Dressing
In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, honey, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, and salt until smooth and creamy. -
Prepare the Salad Base
In a large bowl, add the chopped chicken, pecans, dried cranberries, and green onions. -
Combine
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and gently toss until everything is evenly coated. -
Chill (Optional but Recommended)
Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes to allow flavors to blend. -
Serve
Serve chilled as-is, in lettuce cups, sandwiches, or wraps.
Nutrition (per serving – approximate)
Calories: 420
Protein: 36g
Carbs: 18g
Fat: 24g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 11g
Benefits
- High-Protein: Chicken breast provides long-lasting fullness
- Meal Prep Friendly: Stays fresh for days
- Balanced Flavors: Sweet, savory, and creamy in every bite
- No Cooking Required: Fast and easy
- Great for Weight Management: Filling and satisfying
Additional Notes
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for extra protein
- Light mayo can reduce calories
- Toast pecans for deeper flavor
- Add diced apples or celery for extra crunch
Dietary Info
High-Protein: Yes
Low-Carb Option: Moderate
Gluten-Free: Yes
Dairy-Free Option: Yes (with substitutions)
Keto-Friendly: Moderate (reduce honey & cranberries)
Brief Introduction
This chicken salad is perfect when you want something refreshing but hearty. The creamy poppy seed dressing pairs beautifully with tender chicken, crunchy pecans, and sweet cranberries, making it a crowd favorite that feels indulgent but stays nutritious.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Chop chicken → Mix dressing → Combine ingredients → Chill → Serve
Ingredient Details & Substitutions
- Chicken Breast: Can use rotisserie chicken for convenience
- Pecans: Walnuts or almonds work too
- Cranberries: Raisins or chopped dates are good alternatives
- Honey: Swap with monk fruit or maple syrup
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
Variations
- Add diced apples
- Add celery for crunch
- Use grilled chicken for smoky flavor
- Spicy version with chili flakes
Serve With
- Lettuce wraps
- Whole wheat bread or croissants
- Tortilla wraps
- Stuffed in bell peppers
- On top of mixed greens
Storage & Make-Ahead
Refrigerate: Up to 4 days in airtight container
Freeze: Not recommended (dressing texture changes)
Reheat: Not needed, best served cold
FAQs
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free sour cream or all mayo.
Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, drain well first.
Is it good for weight loss?
Yes, high protein helps control hunger.
Can I reduce sweetness?
Yes, reduce honey or cranberries.
Optional Personal Story
I started making this salad for quick lunches during busy weeks, and it quickly became a favorite. It tastes even better the next day and keeps me full for hours without feeling heavy.
Call-to-Action
Try this High-Protein Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing for your next healthy meal. Save it, meal prep it, and enjoy creamy comfort with powerful protein in every bite 🥗🍗💪
