This Easy Pecan Chicken Salad is a tasty mix of juicy chicken, crunchy pecans, and fresh veggies. It’s creamy, satisfying, and perfect for a quick lunch!
I love putting this salad on a croissant or eating it on its own. It’s a hit for picnics too, just pack it up and enjoy! Seriously, you’ll want to make this easy dish again and again.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you have leftover grilled chicken, that works too! For a lighter option, you can use shredded turkey.
Pecans: These add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor. If you’re allergic or don’t have them, try walnuts or sunflower seeds as a substitute!
Mayonnaise: This gives creaminess to the salad. You can swap it with avocado or use Greek yogurt for a healthier twist if you prefer. Just adjust the amount to your taste!
Celery: It’s crunchy and fresh. If you’re not a fan, you can replace it with diced apples for a hint of sweetness or cucumber for extra crispness.
Lemon Juice: Fresh juice brightens up the flavor. If you don’t have lemon, vinegar or lime juice can work as a substitute for a tangy kick!
How Can You Make the Chicken Salad Extra Flavorful?
Chilling the salad is essential! Letting it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes lets the flavors blend beautifully. It also improves the texture.
- For a quick chill, prepare it in the morning and it’ll be ready by lunch.
- Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or dill right before serving for a pop of freshness.
- Try adding grapes or cranberries for a sweet touch!
By paying attention to the ingredients and letting it chill, you make a chicken salad that’s delicious and satisfying.
Easy Pecan Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion or green onion
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Lettuce leaves, for serving
- Optional: sliced tomatoes and whole grain crackers or bread for serving
Time Estimate:
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare, with an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In just under an hour, you’ll have a delicious salad ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
Start by grabbing a large bowl. In it, add the shredded cooked chicken, chopped pecans, diced celery, and finely chopped onion (or green onion). Give it a quick stir to mix everything together evenly.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth and creamy—this is what will make your chicken salad delicious!
3. Mix Everything Together:
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture in your large bowl. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to stir everything well, making sure that all the chicken and veggies are coated in the yummy dressing.
4. Season to Taste:
Add salt and fresh black pepper to taste. Mix again to spread the seasoning throughout the salad. This step is important because it boosts the flavor!
5. Chill it Out:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together, making every bite even tastier.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to eat, spoon the chicken salad onto crisp lettuce leaves. You can also add optional toppings like sliced tomatoes or serve it with whole grain crackers or bread on the side. Enjoy your fresh and creamy pecan chicken salad!
This salad is perfect for lunch or picnics, and it’s super easy to whip up—I hope you love it!
Can I Use Canned Chicken Instead of Cooked Chicken Breast?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, canned chicken is a convenient option. Just drain it well and shred it with a fork before adding it to the salad.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Chicken Salad?
You can store leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh, avoid leaving it out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Can I Make This Salad Sweeter?
Definitely! If you’d like a hint of sweetness, you can mix in some diced apples or grapes. Adding a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the dressing works great too!
What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt on hand, you can stick to just mayonnaise or use sour cream instead. For a dairy-free option, try using avocado or a vegan mayonnaise!
