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I've been making this Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad for lunch for years now. It started as my quick fix for hectic workdays but turned into something my friends always bug me for. There's something magical about mixing juicy cranberries, crunchy walnuts and soft chicken together. It works for everything - from grabbing a fast bite to hosting casual get-togethers.
What Makes This So Good
The thing I can't get enough of with this dish is how all the different textures and tastes come together. You get the soft cranberries and the snap of walnuts in every mouthful, while the smooth dressing ties it all up nicely. My children beg for it in their packed lunches, and it's my husband's favorite protein-packed snack when afternoon hunger hits.
The Stuff You'll Need
- Mayonnaise: Makes everything nice and creamy - regular works best but you can use light too.
- Greek Yogurt: My little trick for added protein and a nice tangy kick.
- Lemon Juice: Squeeze it fresh for the best zing.
- Dijon Mustard: Just a bit cuts through the sweet stuff.
- Garlic Paste: A small amount goes a long way here.
- Salt & Pepper: Throw in as much as you like.
- Chicken: Grab a rotisserie chicken for an easy flavor boost.
- Craisins: These sweet little bits make everything better.
- Walnuts: Give them a quick toast for extra flavor punch.
- Celery: Adds that fresh snap we all want.
- Scallions: They bring a gentle onion flavor that's just right.
- Lettuce: Pick crispy leaves for serving.
Let's Put It Together
- Mix Your Wet Stuff
- Combine the mayo, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, mustard and that tiny bit of garlic paste until everything's smooth.
- Throw In The Chunks
- Carefully mix in your chicken, cranberries, those crunchy walnuts, celery chunks and most scallions, keeping some green bits for the top.
- Set It Up Nice
- Pile it on lettuce, stuff it between bread slices or just eat it straight from the bowl.
- Dig In
- Try it with some crunchy chips or fresh fruit on the side and tweak the flavors until you love it.
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Storage Tips
Store what's left in a sealed container in your fridge. It'll stay yummy for around 3 4 days, though at my place it's usually gone way before then. Just keep it cold and give it a quick mix before you eat it again.
Helpful Hint
I've found out the hard way that this doesn't do well in the freezer. The mayo gets weird after it thaws. I usually make smaller amounts more often or share extras with my neighbors who never turn it down.
Switch It Up
When I'm in a rush, I'll grab a store rotisserie chicken and it works great. My sister likes to swap walnuts for pecans. If you're counting calories, use more Greek yogurt than mayo, and when you can't find cranberries, dried cherries work just as well.
Tasty Pairings
You can enjoy this so many ways. Put it in a flaky croissant for something fancy, spread it on your favorite crackers or pile it onto crisp lettuce for a lighter option. It goes great with juicy melon slices or a hot bowl of soup. Sometimes I sprinkle extra toasted walnuts on top for more crunch.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make it the day before?
Totally! Letting it chill in the fridge overnight enhances the flavors. It keeps fresh in the fridge for days.
- → Do I have to use rotisserie chicken?
Nope! Boiled or roasted chicken breasts, shredded well, will work just fine. Add extra seasoning as needed.
- → How do I cut back on mayo?
Balance it with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter, less mayo-heavy sauce. Adjust to your liking.
- → What can I swap the walnuts for?
Pecans, almonds, or even sunflower seeds make great alternatives. Be sure to toast them for more flavor.
- → What’s the best way to eat it?
It's awesome in wraps, spread on bread for a sandwich, piled on greens, or just scooped up on its own!