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This Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad has become my go to lunch recipe over the years. I started making it when I needed something fresh and filling for busy workdays and now my friends constantly ask for the recipe. The combination of sweet cranberries crunchy walnuts and tender chicken creates something truly special that works for everything from quick lunches to casual entertaining.
Why You'll Love This
What I love most about this recipe is how it brings together so many wonderful textures and flavors. The chewy cranberries and crunchy walnuts make every bite interesting while the creamy dressing holds everything together perfectly. My kids even ask for it in their lunch boxes and my husband loves it for a protein packed afternoon snack.
Let's Gather Our Ingredients
- Mayonnaise: This creates our creamy base I use regular but light works too.
- Greek Yogurt: My secret for extra protein and tanginess.
- Lemon Juice: Fresh squeezed makes everything pop.
- Dijon Mustard: Just enough to balance the sweetness.
- Garlic Paste: A tiny bit adds so much flavor.
- Salt & Pepper: Season to your taste.
- Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is my shortcut to flavor.
- Craisins: These little jewels add the perfect sweetness.
- Walnuts: I toast mine quickly for extra flavor.
- Celery: For that fresh crunch we all love.
- Scallions: They add such a lovely mild onion note.
- Lettuce: Nice crisp leaves for serving.
Let's Make It Together
- Start With The Dressing
- Mix your mayo Greek yogurt lemon juice mustard and that touch of garlic paste until it's silky smooth.
- Add The Good Stuff
- Gently fold in your chicken cranberries those toasted walnuts crisp celery and most of the scallions save some for topping.
- Make It Pretty
- Scoop it onto lettuce leaves stuff it in your favorite bread or just enjoy it straight from the bowl.
- Time to Enjoy
- I love serving this with some crispy chips or fresh fruit on the side taste and adjust the seasoning until it's just right.
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Keep It Fresh
Pop any leftovers in an airtight container right in the fridge. It stays delicious for about 3 4 days though in my house it rarely lasts that long. Just keep it well chilled and give it a quick stir before serving again.
Quick Tip
I've learned from experience that this salad doesn't love the freezer. The mayo base just isn't the same after thawing. Instead I make smaller batches more often or share extras with neighbors they're always happy to help.
Make It Your Own
Sometimes I grab a rotisserie chicken when I'm short on time it works beautifully. My sister swaps the walnuts for pecans and loves it. If you're watching calories try using more Greek yogurt than mayo and when cranberries are hard to find dried cherries make a fantastic substitute.
Ways to Serve
This salad is so versatile. Tuck it into a croissant for something special scoop it onto your favorite crackers or pile it on crisp lettuce leaves for a light lunch. I love serving it with fresh melon or a warm cup of soup. Sometimes I'll add extra toasted walnuts on top for more crunch.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this ahead?
Yes, the flavors actually improve when chilled. It keeps well in the refrigerator and the flavors continue to develop.
- → Can I use regular chicken instead of rotisserie?
Yes, 2-3 cooked and shredded chicken breasts can replace the rotisserie chicken. Just ensure they're well seasoned.
- → How can I make it less mayo-heavy?
You can use equal parts mayo and Greek yogurt or sour cream instead of the higher mayo ratio for a lighter taste.
- → Can I substitute the nuts?
While walnuts provide great texture and flavor, other nuts like pecans or almonds could work. Just make sure to toast them.
- → How should I serve this?
Serve on bread with lettuce as a sandwich, over greens as a salad, or enjoy it by itself. It's versatile and can be served many ways.