Easy Cranberry Chicken Salad Recipe – Perfect for Quick Lunches & Healthy Dinners

Hi there, food lover! 👋 Ready for a recipe that’s fresh, comforting, and wonderfully practical for busy days? This Easy Cranberry Chicken Salad is one of those timeless dishes that quietly earns a permanent place in your kitchen. It’s light yet satisfying, simple yet full of flavor, and perfect for quick lunches or healthy dinners when you want something nourishing without a lot of fuss.

Chicken salad has long been a staple in traditional home cooking—especially when leftover chicken needed a second life. Over time, families added their own touches: crunchy celery, toasted nuts, sweet fruits. Cranberries, with their gentle tartness, bring a beautiful balance that brightens the whole dish. Combined with tender chicken and a creamy, lightly seasoned dressing, this recipe feels both familiar and refreshed.

This version is especially loved because it’s versatile. Serve it on toasted bread, stuff it into wraps, spoon it over crisp lettuce, or enjoy it straight from the bowl. It travels well, keeps nicely in the fridge, and makes weekday meals feel thoughtfully prepared. Simple ingredients, honest flavors, and comforting results—that’s what traditional cooking is all about. 💛

Ingredients

For the Chicken Salad:

• 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/3 cup celery, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

For the Creamy Dressing:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked chicken, dried cranberries, chopped celery, red onion, and nuts if using. Gently toss to combine.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, and lemon juice until smooth and well blended.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated and creamy.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust sweetness or acidity if desired.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20–30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve chilled on sandwiches, wraps, crackers, or over a bed of fresh greens. Enjoy! 🥗✨

Nutritional Information

This cranberry chicken salad offers a balanced combination of lean protein, healthy fats, and a touch of natural sweetness. It’s filling without being heavy and makes an excellent make-ahead meal for busy weeks.

⏰ Prep Time: 15 minutes
🔥 Baking Time: 0 minutes
⏳ Total Time: 15 minutes + chilling
⚡ Calories per serving: ~340
🍽️ Servings: 4

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Bon appétit and happy cooking! 👩🍳🍽️