Chicken Salad with Cranberries and Walnuts

This Chicken Salad with Cranberries and Walnuts was one of my very first chicken salad recipes. It is still a favorite here, and we just love all the flavors from the sweet mandarins, tangy cranberries, and crunchy walnuts! The dressing has a secret ingredient in it. Trust me, it adds just the right amount of zing to this delicious salad! It's no secret I love chicken salads. If you do too, you may want to try this Herbed Chicken Salad.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

A fresh and light chicken salad, especially with cranberry and walnut additions, is such a delightful favorite for lunches or any time of day!

Ingredients You Will Need

Chicken breast: is a lean cut of meat from the chicken that can be baked, grilled, or poached. It is so versatile. I love Grass Roots Coop for all of my meat purchases.

Red onion: adds a crunchy texture and bold flavor, elevating salads with its zesty kick.

Celery: is a nutrient-rich, low-calorie food and adds a delightful crunch to this salad.

Walnuts: are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants. These nutrients can help lower heart disease and boost your brain function.

Dried cranberries: are made by partially dehydrating fresh cranberries which gives them a chewy texture much like raisins. They are perfect in salads, especially in chicken salads with walnuts.

Mandarin oranges: are similar to tangerine oranges, often used interchangeably. Either of these citrus fruits add a vibrantly sweet and citrusy flavor to this salad.

Spicy brown mustard: comes from the use of brown mustard seeds which packs a greater heat. It is very similar to grainy mustard.

Salt and black pepper: salt enhances the overall flavor of the dish and ground black pepper adds a gentle heat.

Avocado mayonnaise: offers a unique creamy texture and a healthier fat profile.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350˚: Roast the chicken breast for 40 minutes or until the center at the thickest part reaches 165˚ on a thermometer.

Mix together in a small bowl: mayonnaise, mustard, salt, and pepper.

In a larger bowl: combine all of the remaining ingredients like juicy cranberries and crunchy walnuts and toss well.

Add the mayonnaise mixture: to the chicken mixture and toss to combine.

Enjoy!

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Make extra chicken on meal prep day: This way, the chicken is ready to whip up this delightful chicken salad, full of cranberries and walnuts.

Buy chopped walnuts: which will save you from having to chop them up.

Recipe Variations

Almonds: are a wonderful substitute for walnuts in this chicken salad.

Raisins: can be used in place of the dried cranberries.

Greek yogurt: can be used instead of avocado oil mayonnaise. This option is available if you are not concerned about keeping this recipe Paleo or Whole30 friendly.

Storage Tips

This chicken salad recipe keeps well, especially with cranberries and walnuts, in an airtight glass container for 4-5 days.

FAQs About Chicken Salad with Cranberries and Walnuts

Is chicken salad with cranberries and walnuts healthy?

This chicken salad can be a healthy and nutritious choice. It is packed with protein from the chicken and heart-healthy fats from the walnuts.

Can you use fresh cranberries in chicken salad?

Using fresh cranberries brings a punchy tart and sweet flavor that is a fun twist to the classic chicken salad.

Is it better to boil or roast chicken for chicken salad?

Roasted chicken in your salad will produce a more flavorful and textured result compared to boiled chicken.