Creamy Cranberry Chicken Salad

This cranberry chicken salad transforms ordinary leftover chicken into a creamy, texture-rich meal that's both satisfying and simple to prepare. The combination of sweet dried cranberries, crunchy celery, and toasty pecans creates a perfect balance of flavors that elevates this classic dish.

I first made this recipe when looking for creative ways to use leftover holiday turkey. Now it's become my go-to lunch option when I want something that feels special but doesn't require hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• Cooked chicken or turkey provides the protein foundation and works perfectly with shredded rotisserie chicken when you're short on time
• Dried cranberries add a sweet tangy burst that balances the savory elements look for ones without added sugar if possible
• Celery brings essential crunch and freshness choose crisp stalks with bright green color
• Red onion contributes a gentle bite that adds depth without overpowering use fresh firm onions with vibrant color
• Pecans or walnuts introduce richness and texture toast them lightly before adding for maximum flavor
• Mayonnaise creates the creamy base opt for real mayonnaise rather than light versions for best texture
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt adds tanginess and lightens the dressing select full fat versions for creamiest results
• Dijon mustard provides subtle heat and complexity a grainy variety offers extra texture and visual appeal

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the protein

Ensure your chicken or turkey is properly cooled and then shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces. The texture should be consistent but not too fine—you want substantial pieces that will hold up when mixed with the dressing. Using rotisserie chicken saves time while providing excellent flavor.

Mix the dry ingredients

Combine the prepared chicken or turkey with dried cranberries, chopped celery, red onion, and nuts in a large bowl. Distribute all ingredients evenly throughout the mixture, ensuring every bite will contain the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Create the dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream or Greek yogurt, and Dijon mustard until completely smooth. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. The dressing should be thick enough to coat a spoon but still pourable.

Combine and coat

Pour the prepared dressing over the chicken mixture and gently fold everything together using a rubber spatula. Continue folding until all ingredients are evenly coated with dressing but be careful not to overmix as this can break down the chicken texture.

Chill for flavor development

Cover the salad with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though longer is better. This resting period allows the flavors to meld together and the dried cranberries to slightly plump up, creating a more harmonious final dish.

Save

The dried cranberries are truly the secret ingredient here. I discovered their importance when I once made this without them, and my family immediately noticed something was missing. Their sweet-tart flavor creates the perfect counterpoint to the creamy dressing and savory chicken.

Make-Ahead Tips

This chicken salad actually improves with time as flavors meld together. Make it up to two days in advance for best results. Keep it stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, but avoid freezing as the mayonnaise-based dressing will separate when thawed.

Serving Suggestions

While delicious on its own, this cranberry chicken salad shines when served as a sandwich on croissants or hearty wheat bread. For a lighter option, serve a scoop over mixed greens with a drizzle of olive oil. It also pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit on the side—particularly grapes or apple slices—which complement the sweet-savory profile.

Customization Options

This recipe welcomes creative adjustments. Try adding diced apple for extra crunch, sliced grapes for juicy sweetness, or avocado chunks for creamy richness. For a more complex flavor profile, consider incorporating fresh herbs like tarragon or dill. You can also lighten the recipe by using all Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.

Cultural Context

Chicken salad has been an American staple since the mid-1800s when it became popular at ladies' luncheons. This cranberry version represents the modern evolution of the classic, incorporating dried fruits and nuts—a trend that gained popularity in the 1980s and 1990s as Americans began exploring more textural and flavor contrasts in familiar dishes.

Save

Recipe FAQs

→ What can I substitute for the nuts in this chicken salad?

If you need to avoid nuts, you can substitute with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch. For a nut-free version that maintains texture, try adding diced water chestnuts, crispy rice cereal added just before serving, or additional chopped vegetables like bell peppers.

→ How long does cranberry chicken salad last in the refrigerator?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this cranberry chicken salad will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. For best results, keep it well-chilled at all times and avoid leaving it at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken for this salad?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is an excellent time-saving option for this salad. Simply remove the skin, shred or chop the meat, and proceed with the recipe. One medium rotisserie chicken typically yields about 3-4 cups of meat, which is perfect for a larger batch.

→ What are some serving suggestions for cranberry chicken salad?

This versatile salad can be served multiple ways: on a bed of lettuce for a low-carb lunch, in a wrap or sandwich with whole grain bread, stuffed in a halved avocado for an extra creamy experience, scooped onto cucumber slices for elegant appetizers, or simply with whole grain crackers for a quick snack.

→ How can I make this chicken salad healthier?

To create a lighter version, substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt (use 2% or full-fat for creaminess), reduce the amount of dried cranberries or choose unsweetened varieties, increase the vegetables by adding grated carrots or diced bell peppers, and serve on lettuce leaves instead of bread for a lower-carb option.

→ Can I prepare this chicken salad in advance for an event?

This chicken salad is perfect for make-ahead preparation. You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance, which actually allows the flavors to meld together nicely. Keep it refrigerated until ready to serve, and give it a quick stir before presenting. For best texture, add any crunchy garnishes just before serving.