Cranberry Chicken Salad Recipe
Cranberry chicken salad is a sweet and savory twist on the classic chicken salad. With juicy chicken, dried cranberries, crunchy celery, and creamy dressing, it’s a refreshing meal perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or served on a bed of greens. Great for lunch, picnics, or meal prep any time of year.

Ingredients List
– 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped or shredded
– ½ cup dried cranberries
– ⅓ cup chopped celery
– ¼ cup chopped red onion
– ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
– ½ cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: In a large bowl, combine chopped chicken, cranberries, celery, red onion, and nuts if using.
Step 2: In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and mix well until evenly coated.
Step 4: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Chill for at least 30 minutes for best flavor.
Step 5: Serve on croissants, in wraps, with crackers, or over a fresh salad.
Cook Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings
Serves 4
Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)
Calories: 310
Carbs: 9g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 22g
Storage Instructions
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Not recommended for freezing due to mayonnaise.
Pairings/Suggestions
Tastes great with croissants, crackers, lettuce wraps, or as a filling in pita pockets.
Add a side of fresh fruit or chips for a complete lunch.
Seasonal Relevance
Perfect for spring and summer lunches, picnic baskets, or holiday leftover makeovers.
Also ideal for light meals in warmer weather.
Conclusion
This cranberry chicken salad offers the perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and fruity in every bite. It’s quick to prepare, incredibly versatile, and sure to become a family favorite. Whether for lunchboxes or weekend brunch, this salad always hits the spot.
Cranberry Chicken Salad Recipe
4
servings15
minutes310
kcalA creamy and flavorful cranberry chicken salad made with simple ingredients. Great for meal prep or quick, delicious sandwiches and wraps.
Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped or shredded
– ½ cup dried cranberries
– ⅓ cup chopped celery
– ¼ cup chopped red onion
– ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
– ½ cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine chopped chicken, cranberries, celery, red onion, and nuts if using.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and mix well until evenly coated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Chill for at least 30 minutes for best flavor.
- Serve on croissants, in wraps, with crackers, or over a fresh salad.
Recipe Video
Notes
- This cranberry chicken salad combines tender chicken with tart cranberries and crunchy celery.
A creamy Dijon and mayo dressing ties all the flavors together beautifully.
It’s great for sandwiches, wraps, or served over fresh greens.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works great and adds extra flavor.
Q2: What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
You can substitute Greek yogurt or a mix of yogurt and mayo for a lighter option.
Q3: Can I add apples or grapes?
Absolutely. Diced apples or halved grapes make great additions for extra sweetness and crunch.
