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When it comes to holiday gatherings, potlucks, or simply indulging in a delightful meal, nothing quite matches the charm of a beautifully crafted salad. The "Festive Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad" is a perfect embodiment of this sentiment, combining savory and sweet elements that evoke the spirit of celebration. This salad is not just a dish; it's a delightful mélange of flavors and textures that can elevate any occasion. Whether you're hosting a holiday feast or looking for a refreshing lunch option, this chicken salad is sure to impress.

Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Discover the joy of holiday flavors with the Festive Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad. This delightful mix of tender chicken, sweet dried cranberries, crunchy pecans, and a creamy dressing makes for a versatile dish that's perfect for potlucks, festive gatherings, or a light lunch. Made with fresh, high-quality ingredients, this salad not only pleases the eye but also offers a burst of nutrition. Elevate your meals with this delicious and easy-to-prepare recipe!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked chicken, diced

1/2 cup dried cranberries

1/2 cup pecans, roughly chopped

1/2 cup celery, finely chopped

1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

1/2 cup mayonnaise

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon honey (optional for sweetness)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Mixed greens or lettuce (for serving, optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken: If you haven’t done so already, cook the chicken by boiling or grilling until fully cooked. Allow it to cool before dicing into bite-sized pieces.

    Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, celery, and red onion. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.

      Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and honey (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the sweetness or tanginess by adding more honey or mustard according to your preference.

        Combine: Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture. Toss gently until all the ingredients are nicely coated with the dressing.

          Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

            Serve: Once chilled, serve the salad on a bed of mixed greens or lettuce. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.

              Enjoy!: This salad can be enjoyed by itself, in a sandwich, or as part of a picnic spread.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 50 minutes (including chilling) | Serves 4-6