Chicken Salad with Pecans (Printable)
Tender chicken, toasted pecans, crisp vegetables, and a creamy dressing come together in this fresh dish.
# What You’ll Need:
→ Protein
01 - 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded (about 2 medium breasts)
→ Nuts
02 - ½ cup toasted pecan halves or pieces
→ Vegetables & Fruits
03 - 1 cup finely chopped celery
04 - ½ cup red grapes, halved (or substitute diced apple)
05 - 2 green onions, thinly sliced
→ Dressing
06 - ½ cup mayonnaise
07 - 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
08 - 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
09 - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
10 - ½ teaspoon salt
11 - ¼ teaspoon black pepper
→ Garnish (optional)
12 - Mixed salad greens or lettuce leaves
# How-To Steps:
01 - Toast pecan halves in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant, then set aside to cool.
02 - In a large bowl, mix diced chicken, finely chopped celery, halved grapes, sliced green onions, and cooled toasted pecans.
03 - Whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt or sour cream, Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl until smooth.
04 - Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
05 - Taste the salad and adjust salt and pepper seasoning as needed.
06 - Serve chilled over mixed salad greens or lettuce leaves, or use as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- It comes together in under half an hour and tastes better than anything you'd buy premade.
- The pecans add a toasted richness that makes every bite feel a little indulgent without being heavy.
- You can serve it on greens, stuff it in a sandwich, or eat it straight from the bowl with a fork.
02 -
- If you add the pecans while they're still warm, they'll lose their crunch and turn soft in the dressing.
- Don't overdress the salad, you can always add more but you can't take it back once it's too creamy.
03 -
- A pinch of smoked paprika in the dressing adds a subtle warmth that makes people wonder what your secret is.
- If you toast the pecans with a tiny sprinkle of salt, they'll taste even more addictive when you fold them in.