A refreshing blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, this Apple Cranberry Chicken Salad is a delightful combination of tender chicken, crisp apples, tart cranberries, and crunchy nuts tossed in a creamy dressing. It’s a perfect meal for lunch, picnics, or a light dinner, offering both nutrition and taste in every bite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1 medium apple, chopped (use Honeycrisp or Fuji for sweetness)
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/3 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt (for a lighter version)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, chopped apple, dried cranberries, celery, and nuts. Toss gently to mix all the ingredients evenly.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), honey, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until the dressing is smooth and creamy.
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until everything is well coated. Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors blend beautifully. Serve it on a bed of lettuce, in a sandwich, or with crackers.
Servings
Serves 4 people
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 310
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 10g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
- Sodium: 260mg
Notes
You can use rotisserie chicken for a quick version of this salad. If you prefer a lighter taste, replace half or all of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt. For extra crunch and flavor, try adding chopped green onions or a handful of fresh herbs like parsley or dill.
Tips
- Always use crisp apples to maintain the salad’s texture.
- Toast the nuts lightly before adding to enhance their flavor.
- Let the salad chill before serving for the best taste.
- If making ahead, add the apples just before serving to prevent browning.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey based on your preference.
