Name: Pecan Chicken Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken (chopped); ½ cup pecans (toasted and chopped); 2 stalks celery (finely chopped); ¼ cup red onion (minced); ½ cup Greek yogurt; ¼ cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt (to taste); Black pepper (to taste)

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When I think of a dish that embodies both comfort and freshness, Pecan Chicken Salad immediately comes to mind. This recipe has a special place in my heart, as it reminds me of warm summer days spent outdoors with family and friends. There’s something truly satisfying about combining tender, juicy chicken with the crunchy, buttery texture of toasted pecans. Whether you’re preparing a light lunch or looking for an easy dinner option, this salad is perfect for any occasion. The best part about Pecan Chicken Salad is how effortlessly it comes together. You can whip it up in no time, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

As we gather around the table, sharing stories and laughter, this salad always seems to be a crowd-pleaser. Its creamy dressing, made from Greek yogurt and mayonnaise, perfectly coats the vibrant ingredients, creating a delightful blend of flavors. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be served on its own or as a filling for sandwiches. I love how it can cater to everyone’s taste buds, from health-conscious eaters to those craving something indulgent.

Every time I prepare Pecan Chicken Salad, I can’t help but smile, knowing it’s not just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s about gathering together, sharing wholesome food, and savoring each delicious bite. So, let’s dive into this recipe and bring a taste of summer to your table!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
10 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
310 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Whisk, Mixing Bowl

What Makes This Pecan Chicken Salad Special

Deliciously Nutritious

One of the reasons I adore Pecan Chicken Salad is its balance of nutrition and flavor. The combination of chicken and pecans offers a significant protein boost, while the fresh vegetables bring essential vitamins and minerals to the mix. I always feel good serving this to my loved ones, knowing it’s not just tasty but also healthy.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This salad is incredibly versatile. I often make it for picnics, barbecues, or even as a light dinner option. With its refreshing taste, Pecan Chicken Salad fits right in at any gathering or event. Plus, it’s easy to scale up for larger groups!

Simple Yet Elegant

Sometimes, less is more. This salad showcases simple ingredients that come together to create a dish that looks and tastes gourmet. You can impress your guests without the stress, making it perfect for entertaining.

Make-Ahead Friendly

Another reason to love Pecan Chicken Salad is its make-ahead appeal. Preparing it in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully in the refrigerator, enhancing the overall taste. It’s a time-saver, making it perfect for those busy days.

Customizable

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. You can easily swap out ingredients based on your preferences or availability. Want to add some dried cranberries for a sweet touch? Go for it! The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make it uniquely yours.

Ingredients to Make Pecan Chicken Salad

Creating the perfect Pecan Chicken Salad starts with selecting fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component serves a purpose, contributing to the overall flavor and texture of the dish. The star of the show is undoubtedly the tender chicken, paired with the crunch of pecans that elevates the salad to new heights. Fresh vegetables like celery and red onion add that necessary crunch, while a creamy dressing binds everything together. Let’s dive into the individual ingredients!

2 cups cooked chicken, chopped: This forms the base of your salad, providing protein and a hearty texture.
½ cup pecans, toasted and chopped: Their rich, buttery flavor adds a delightful crunch to the dish.
2 stalks celery, finely chopped: This brings a refreshing crunch that balances out the creaminess.
¼ cup red onion, minced: A bit of sharpness that adds depth and flavor, without overwhelming the dish.
½ cup Greek yogurt: A healthier alternative to mayonnaise, adding creaminess with a tangy flavor.
¼ cup mayonnaise: A classic ingredient that brings richness to the dressing.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: This adds a subtle zing to the dressing.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: Freshens up the flavors and adds brightness.
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste

Recipe Directions for Pecan Chicken Salad

Let’s get started on our Pecan Chicken Salad. The process is straightforward, making it perfect for both novice and seasoned cooks. Gather all your ingredients, and let’s create something delicious together!

In a large bowl, combine the chopped chicken, toasted pecans, chopped celery, and minced red onion. Use a spatula to gently fold the ingredients together to ensure they’re evenly mixed. Look for a colorful array of textures and aromas, inviting you to move on to the next step.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice until smooth. The mixture should be creamy and well-combined. This dressing will add a luscious coating to your salad, so make sure to taste it for seasoning on the way.
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture. It’s time to get your hands in there! Toss everything until the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. The creamy texture should envelop each piece of chicken and the crunchy elements.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. This step is crucial, as it enhances all the flavors in your Pecan Chicken Salad. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference for a balance that pleases your palate.
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a harmonious taste experience. You’ll notice the difference after the salad has had time to rest, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Once chilled, give the salad a final toss and taste again for seasoning. Sometimes, a little extra pinch of salt or pepper can make all the difference!
Serve the Pecan Chicken Salad on a bed of mixed greens, in a sandwich, or even in a wrap. The presentation is important, so feel free to get creative with how you serve it!
Enjoy the compliments! When friends and family taste your creation, they’ll be asking for seconds.

Things Worth Knowing

Texture matters: Aim for a balance of crunchy and creamy in your salad. The pecans provide crunch, while the Greek yogurt and mayonnaise add creaminess.
Chill time is crucial: Allowing your salad to chill lets the flavors meld together beautifully. If you can, make it a few hours ahead!
Ingredient quality counts: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Fresh produce makes a noticeable difference in taste.
Mind the seasoning: Start with a little seasoning, then adjust to taste. You can always add more, but it’s hard to take away!

Helpful Notes about Pecan Chicken Salad

While making Pecan Chicken Salad is straightforward, here are some helpful notes to consider to ensure you achieve the best results!

Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The freshness will fade over time, but it stays tasty.
Freezing: It’s best not to freeze this salad, as the texture of the chicken and the dressing can change once thawed.
Pairing: Consider serving this salad with a side of crusty bread or in a sandwich for a delicious meal.
Variations: Try adding fruits like grapes or apples for a sweet twist or herbs like dill for a fresh flavor.

Serving Options for Pecan Chicken Salad

Pecan Chicken Salad is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to fit various serving styles and occasions. Here are some delightful options:

On a Bed of Greens: Serve it on a bed of mixed greens for a light, refreshing option that’s perfect for lunch.
As a Sandwich: Spread the salad between two slices of your favorite bread for a satisfying sandwich that’s great for picnics or lunchboxes.
In a Wrap: Use a whole wheat or spinach wrap to create a delicious wrap that’s easy to take on the go.
With Crackers: Serve as a dip with whole grain or gluten-free crackers for a fun appetizer at gatherings.
For Special Occasions: This salad is perfect for summer barbecues, bridal showers, or any festive gathering. Its inviting flavors and appealing presentation are sure to impress guests.
Storage Tip: If you have leftovers, store them in a sealed container in the refrigerator and enjoy them as a quick meal throughout the week.

FAQ

Absolutely! In fact, making Pecan Chicken Salad ahead of time is one of the best ways to enhance its flavor. Preparing it a few hours or even a day in advance allows the ingredients to meld beautifully, resulting in a more cohesive taste. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep or entertaining guests!

Pecan Chicken Salad is incredibly versatile and pairs well with various side dishes. You can serve it on a bed of mixed greens for a light lunch, or as a filling for sandwiches and wraps. For a more substantial meal, serve it alongside crusty bread, crackers, or even a light soup. It’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a meal prep option throughout the week!

Yes, Pecan Chicken Salad can be a healthy option, especially when made with wholesome ingredients. It contains protein from the chicken, healthy fats from the pecans, and plenty of fiber from the vegetables. By using Greek yogurt instead of traditional mayonnaise, you can also reduce the calorie and fat content while adding extra protein. Just be mindful of the portion sizes and any additional ingredients you add!

Definitely! One of the great things about Pecan Chicken Salad is its versatility. You can customize it based on your preferences. Feel free to add fruits like grapes or apples for a touch of sweetness, or toss in some fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an extra flavor boost. You can even switch up the dressing to suit your taste. The possibilities are endless!

Conclusion

Pecan Chicken Salad is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings people together. With its delightful combination of crispy, creamy, and savory elements, it’s sure to impress at any meal. I encourage you to give it a try—your tastebuds will thank you! Whether for a casual lunch or a special gathering, this salad is a must-make. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare and how wonderful it tastes. Enjoy every bite!