The BEST Chicken Salad Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I appreciate how this chicken salad strikes the perfect balance between savory and sweet. The rotisserie chicken provides a rich, seasoned base, while the cranberries and honey add a touch of sweetness that complements the tangy Dijon mustard and lemon juice. The toasted pecans introduce a satisfying crunch, making each bite interesting. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare and gets even better after chilling, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Salad:

• rotisserie chicken, diced

• pecans, coarsely chopped and toasted

• dried cranberries

• celery, thinly sliced

Dressing:

• mayonnaise

• sour cream

• honey

• Dijon-style mustard

• poppy seeds (optional)

• lemon juice

• salt and pepper, to taste

directions

1. I start by toasting the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat until they’re fragrant, then set them aside to cool.

2. In a large bowl, I combine the diced rotisserie chicken, toasted pecans, dried cranberries, and sliced celery.

3. In a separate bowl, I whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, honey, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds (if using), lemon juice, salt, and pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined.

4. I pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and gently stir until everything is evenly coated.

5. I refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings. It takes about 10 minutes to prepare, with an additional 10 minutes for toasting the pecans, totaling 20 minutes. For the best flavor, I recommend chilling the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Variations

• Nut Substitutions: I sometimes swap the pecans for sliced almonds, chopped pistachios, or walnuts, depending on what I have on hand.

• Fruit Variations: Instead of dried cranberries, I occasionally use cherry-infused cranberries or even diced fresh apples for a different flavor profile.

• Dressing Adjustments: For a lighter version, I use light sour cream or substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream.

• Add-ins: I like adding a handful of chopped fresh herbs, like parsley or dill, for an extra burst of flavor.

• Serving Options: This salad is versatile—I enjoy it on croissants, sandwich rolls, lettuce wraps, or even with crackers and sliced apples.

storage/reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where the salad stays fresh for up to 3–5 days. Before serving, I check for any off smells or discoloration to ensure it’s still good. Since this is a cold salad, reheating isn’t necessary.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of chicken?

Absolutely. While I prefer rotisserie chicken for its flavor and convenience, I also use grilled or baked chicken breasts, shredded or diced, depending on what I have available.

How can I make this salad ahead of time?

I often prepare the salad a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors develop nicely overnight, making it even more delicious the next day.

What can I serve with this chicken salad?

I enjoy serving this salad on croissants or sandwich rolls with some lettuce. It’s also great with crackers, sliced apples, or celery sticks for a lighter option.

Can I make this recipe nut-free?

Yes, I simply omit the pecans or replace them with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a nut-free version that still offers a nice crunch.

Is there a dairy-free alternative for the dressing?

To make the dressing dairy-free, I substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt or additional mayonnaise, ensuring the consistency remains creamy.

Conclusion

This chicken salad recipe is a staple in my kitchen. Its combination of textures and flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser, whether I’m preparing it for a quick lunch, a picnic, or entertaining guests. The ease of preparation and the ability to customize it with various add-ins and substitutions ensure that it never gets boring. I always find myself coming back to this reliable and delicious recipe.