This Pecan Chicken Salad combines the tender juiciness of cooked chicken with the satisfying crunch of toasted pecans and fresh celery. A creamy dressing made with Greek yogurt and a hint of maple pepper elevates this classic dish to gourmet status.
Whether served on buttery croissants, crisp lettuce leaves, or as a standalone dish, this salad is perfect for lunches, potlucks, or light dinners. Its versatile flavors and simple preparation make it a crowd pleaser for any occasion.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 teaspoons white wine vinegar
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon maple pepper seasoning (or substitute with a maple-infused seasoning)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- ⅓ cup toasted pecans, chopped
- 2 tablespoons red onion, minced
Directions:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, white wine vinegar, garlic powder, dried thyme, and maple pepper seasoning until smooth and well combined.
- Add the chopped chicken, celery, pecans, and red onion to the bowl. Stir until all ingredients are evenly coated in the dressing.
- Serve immediately on toasted croissants, atop butter lettuce, or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: None
Total Time: 10 minutes
Calories: 421 kcal per serving
Servings: 4 servings
Pecan Chicken Salad: A Delightful Blend of Creaminess and Crunch
Chicken salad is a timeless classic that never goes out of style, and this Pecan Chicken Salad elevates the traditional recipe with its perfect balance of textures and flavors. Combining the tender juiciness of chicken, the crunch of toasted pecans, and the creamy tang of a yogurt based dressing, this salad is more than just a meal it’s an experience. Whether you’re planning a quick lunch, a picnic, or a light dinner, this versatile recipe offers something for everyone.
The Appeal of Chicken Salad
Chicken salad has long been a staple in kitchens around the world. Its simplicity and versatility make it an easy go-to dish for busy households, and its ability to adapt to various flavor profiles ensures there’s always a way to put a personal twist on it. The addition of pecans to this recipe brings a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy dressing, offering a fresh take on the classic formula. The slight sweetness of toasted pecans, combined with the earthiness of thyme and the tang of white wine vinegar, adds complexity and depth to the dish.
Why Choose Pecan Chicken Salad?
This recipe stands out not only for its delicious flavors but also for its health-conscious ingredients. By using a combination of mayonnaise and Greek yogurt, the dressing becomes lighter while still maintaining its rich and creamy texture. Greek yogurt is an excellent source of protein and probiotics, which support gut health and overall well being. The addition of fresh vegetables like celery and red onion not only enhances the crunch factor but also contributes essential vitamins and minerals.
Pecans are another star ingredient in this recipe, providing heart-healthy fats, antioxidants, and a touch of natural sweetness. Together, these ingredients create a balanced dish that is as nutritious as it is satisfying.
Versatility at Its Finest
One of the greatest strengths of this Pecan Chicken Salad is its versatility. It can be enjoyed in numerous ways:
- On a sandwich: Serve it between slices of toasted bread or a buttery croissant for a hearty lunch.
- As a topping: Scoop it onto a bed of fresh greens, such as arugula or butter lettuce, for a lighter option.
- With crackers: Use it as a flavorful dip for crackers or sliced vegetables during a casual gathering.
- By itself: Enjoy it straight from the bowl as a standalone dish it’s that good!
This adaptability makes it a perfect choice for meal prepping. Prepare a batch at the beginning of the week, and you’ll have a delicious and ready to eat option for busy days.
Tips for Making the Best Pecan Chicken Salad
- Use Quality Chicken: The flavor of the dish depends on the quality of your chicken. Rotisserie chicken is a great option, as it’s flavorful and easy to shred. Leftover roasted chicken also works well.
- Toast the Pecans: Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor and adds an irresistible nuttiness to the salad. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference.
- Adjust the Seasoning: The recipe calls for maple pepper seasoning, which adds a hint of sweetness and spice. If you can’t find it, substitute with a maple-infused seasoning or a mix of ground black pepper and a pinch of maple syrup.
- Customize Your Veggies: While celery and red onion are the traditional choices, you can add other vegetables like chopped bell peppers or shredded carrots for added crunch and color.
- Chill Before Serving: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This gives the flavors time to meld together for a more cohesive taste.
A Crowd-Pleaser for Any Occasion
Pecan Chicken Salad is a dish that works equally well for intimate family meals and larger gatherings. Its sophisticated flavor profile makes it a hit at potlucks and picnics, while its ease of preparation ensures it’s an excellent choice for weekday lunches. For those hosting events, this salad can be served in mini croissants or as part of a salad platter, allowing guests to customize their portions.
The combination of creamy dressing, tender chicken, crunchy pecans, and fresh vegetables also makes this dish a visually appealing option. Its vibrant textures and colors will stand out on any table, inviting everyone to dig in.
Perfect for Seasonal Variations
This recipe can also be adapted to fit different seasons. During the summer, serve it chilled on a bed of crisp lettuce for a refreshing meal. In the fall, incorporate seasonal ingredients like diced apples or dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness and warmth. For a holiday-themed twist, consider adding chopped roasted chestnuts or a sprinkle of nutmeg to the dressing.
A Healthy and Delicious Option
In an era where more people are focusing on healthy eating, this Pecan Chicken Salad offers a guilt-free indulgence. With its combination of lean protein, healthy fats, and nutrient-dense vegetables, it provides a satisfying meal without unnecessary calories or processed ingredients. It’s also naturally low carb, making it an excellent choice for those following ketogenic or low-carbohydrate diets.
For added customization, you can make simple substitutions to cater to dietary preferences. Replace the mayonnaise with a vegan alternative for a dairy-free option, or use plant based chicken substitutes to make it vegetarian.
Conclusion
Pecan Chicken Salad is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that come together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re enjoying it on a quiet afternoon at home or serving it to friends and family at a gathering, this dish is sure to impress. Its versatility, ease of preparation, and health benefits make it a staple that belongs in every kitchen.
So why not give it a try? With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Pecan Chicken Salad is proof that great food doesn’t have to be complicated it just has to be made with love.