If you’re looking for a high-protein chicken salad recipe that’s creamy, flavorful, and perfect for meal prep, this Creamy Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad is a delicious choice. Made with tender shredded chicken, crunchy celery, sweet dried cranberries, toasted walnuts, and a creamy dressing, it’s ideal for healthy lunches, quick dinners, sandwiches, wraps, or lettuce cups. This easy recipe comes together in just minutes and stays fresh in the refrigerator, making it a great option for busy weekdays.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 1 cup celery, diced
- ¾ cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, celery, dried cranberries, and chopped walnuts.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
- Serve chilled in sandwiches, wraps, croissants, lettuce cups, crackers, or enjoy it on its own.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Tips for the Best Chicken Salad
- Use rotisserie chicken for extra flavor and convenience.
- Toast the walnuts before adding them for a richer, nuttier taste.
- Replace mayonnaise with extra Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Add diced apples or grapes for extra sweetness and crunch.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make chicken salad ahead of time?
Yes. It’s an excellent meal-prep recipe and tastes even better after chilling for a few hours.
Can I freeze chicken salad?
Freezing isn’t recommended because the mayonnaise-based dressing may separate after thawing.
What’s the best chicken to use?
Rotisserie chicken, baked chicken breasts, or poached chicken all work well.
Can I make it healthier?
Absolutely. Substitute some or all of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt and use unsweetened dried cranberries if available.
What can I serve with chicken salad?
Serve it in croissants, sandwiches, wraps, lettuce cups, over mixed greens, with crackers, or alongside fresh fruit.
How long does homemade chicken salad last?
Stored properly in the refrigerator, it stays fresh for 3–4 days.
