chicken salad recipe with cranberries
The Best chicken salad recipe with cranberries
The health benefits make it even more appealing. Chicken is lean protein, and the cranberries add fiber and antioxidants without overpowering the dish. The veggies—like celery and grapes—bring in vitamins and hydration, while the crunch keeps things interesting. It’s not just a meal; it’s a way to keep things balanced without feeling like a chore. And because it’s so versatile, you can tweak it to fit whatever you’re craving—add nuts for crunch, swap out the cranberries for raisins, or even skip them if you prefer. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a no-brainer, but it’s always a joy to pull out of the fridge and serve.
Classic Chicken Salad with Cranberries
A refreshing mix of tender chicken, sweet cranberries, and creamy dressing, perfect for sandwiches or salads. Light yet satisfying, this recipe balances fresh flavors with a touch of holiday sweetness.
🥘Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat oven to 375°F. Place chicken breasts on a baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let cool. -
2
In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Set aside. -
3
In a food processor, combine cranberries and honey. Pulse until cranberries are broken down but still visible. Transfer to a bowl and stir in parsley. -
4
Shred or chop cooled chicken and combine with the dressing in a large bowl. Fold in the cranberry mix until evenly distributed.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Food processor or large bowl
- Knife and cutting board
- Salad spinner or paper towels
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Classic Chicken Salad with Cranberries Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Salad with Cranberries
1. How long should I marinate the chicken before making the salad?
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but up to 2 hours in the fridge for best flavor. If you’re in a hurry, a quick 15-minute soak works too—just make sure it’s fully cooked before assembling.
2. Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of fresh?
Absolutely. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, discarding any skin or bones, then mix it directly into the dressing. The flavors will still shine through!
3. What if I don’t have fresh cranberries?
Dried cranberries work just fine—just use ¼ cup (packed) for the same sweet-tart effect. For extra freshness, swap in ½ cup dried cranberries and add 1 tablespoon of maple syrup to balance the sweetness.
4. How do I keep the salad fresh longer?
Store the assembled salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If the dressing separates, give it a quick whisk before serving. For extra crunch, toss in fresh greens or a sprinkle of toasted nuts right before eating.
