Name: Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing
Ingredients: Dressing: ½ cup mayonnaise – Adds creaminess and depth of flavor to the dressing.; ¼ cup sour cream – Contributes a tangy flavor that complements the mayonnaise.; 2 tbsp honey, softened – Provides sweetness and balances the acidity of the dressing.; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard – Introduces a sharp, tangy flavor that enhances the dressing.; 1 tbsp poppy seeds – Adds a pleasant crunch and visual appeal.; Salt to taste – Enhances all the flavors in the dressing.; Salad: 4 cups cooked, chopped chicken breast (about 2 chicken breasts) – The main protein source, providing richness and substance.; 1 cup chopped pecans – Adds a crunch and nutty flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness.; ½ cup dried cranberries – Brings a sweet, chewy element that brightens the salad.; 4 chopped green onions – Adds freshness and a mild onion flavor.

Description

Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing combines tender chicken, sweet dried cranberries, crunchy pecans, and a creamy, tangy dressing.

Ingredients

Scale

Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise – Adds creaminess and depth of flavor to the dressing.
- ¼ cup sour cream – Contributes a tangy flavor that complements the mayonnaise.
- 2 tbsp honey, softened – Provides sweetness and balances the acidity of the dressing.
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard – Introduces a sharp, tangy flavor that enhances the dressing.
- 1 tbsp poppy seeds – Adds a pleasant crunch and visual appeal.
- Salt to taste – Enhances all the flavors in the dressing.
Salad:
- 4 cups cooked, chopped chicken breast (about 2 chicken breasts) – The main protein source, providing richness and substance.
- 1 cup chopped pecans – Adds a crunch and nutty flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness.
- ½ cup dried cranberries – Brings a sweet, chewy element that brightens the salad.
- 4 chopped green onions – Adds freshness and a mild onion flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together ½ cup mayonnaise, ¼ cup sour cream, 2 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp Dijon mustard, and 1 tbsp poppy seeds until well combined. Taste and add salt as needed.
Make the Salad: In a large bowl, combine 4 cups cooked, chopped chicken breast, 1 cup chopped pecans, ½ cup dried cranberries, and 4 chopped green onions.
Toss it Together: Gently fold the dressing into the salad mixture until everything is evenly coated. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt if desired to cater to your taste.
Chill and Serve: For best results, allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.