Thin apple slices topped with creamy cranberry chicken salad, chopped celery, pecans, and dried cranberries on a white plate

Cranberry Chicken Salad on Apple Slices

Looking for a refreshing twist on classic chicken salad? This Cranberry Chicken Salad served over crisp apple slices is sweet, savory, and absolutely satisfying. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or creating a healthy holiday appetizer, this simple cranberry chicken salad recipe is the perfect balance of texture and flavor.

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Cranberry Chicken Salad

A sweet and savory chicken salad with cranberries, pecans, and celery, served on apple slices for a crunchy, refreshing bite.

  • Author: Chef Rina
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x
  • Category: Appetizer / Lunch

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cooked chicken breast halves, chopped

  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries

  • 1/3 cup chopped roasted pecans

  • 1/3 cup thinly sliced celery

  • 1/3 cup light mayonnaise

  • 1/3 cup sour cream

  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

  • 1/2 teaspoon curry powder

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

  • 2 to 3 medium apples, sliced into thin rounds

Cranberry Chicken Salad ingredients
Ingredients for a simple cranberry chicken salad recipe

Instructions

  • In a large bowl, combine chopped chicken, dried cranberries, pecans, and celery.

  • In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, and curry powder. Season with salt and pepper.

  • Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture. Stir until evenly coated.

  • Arrange the apple slices neatly on a serving tray.

  • Finish by layering a small mound of the salad atop every apple round.

  • Serve immediately or refrigerate briefly before serving for a cool, crisp bite.

Notes

Feel free to use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream for a lighter version.

Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used, portion sizes, and preparation methods.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: Approximately 280 per serving

Keywords: Cranberry Chicken Salad, cooked chicken breast, rotisserie chicken, plain greek yogurt, dried cranberries, dried dill weed, dijon mustard, green apple, sour cream, red grapes, pine nuts, celery

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Cranberry Chicken Salad FAQs

Can I add cranberries to chicken salad?

Absolutely! Dried cranberries add a delicious sweet-tart flavor and chewy texture that balances the savory chicken.

What is in Panera cranberry walnut chicken salad?

It typically includes chicken, mayo, celery, dried cranberries, and walnuts—similar to this cranberry chicken salad with pecans.

What can I put in chicken salad to make it taste better?

Enhance flavor with lemon juice, fresh herbs, crunchy nuts, or a touch of spice like curry powder.

Can you eat raw cranberries in a salad?

Yes, but they are quite tart. Most prefer dried cranberries for better balance in flavor.

Is mayo or Miracle Whip better in chicken salad?

It’s a personal preference. Mayo offers a richer taste, while Miracle Whip adds tangy sweetness.

What not to do when preparing chicken salad?

Avoid overmixing, using under-seasoned chicken, or adding too much dressing which can make it soggy.

Why do you put lemon juice in chicken salad?

Lemon juice brightens the flavor and helps balance the richness of mayo and sour cream.

What is the secret to good chicken salad?

The key is balance—combining savory, sweet, creamy, and crunchy elements in just the right proportions.

Delicious Chicken Salad Recipes You’ll Love

Give this flavorful spin a try: Cranberry Walnut Chicken Salad Recipe

Need a hearty option? Check out Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe

Craving bold flavors? You’ll enjoy our Flavorful Chinese Chicken Salad

For spice lovers: Chopped Chicken Salad Chipotle

Sweet and crisp? Try the Watermelon Cucumber Feta Salad

Tex-Mex craving? Go for Santa Fe Salad with Chicken

Cook your chicken to perfection: Oven Roasted Boneless Chicken Thighs

Final Thoughts

This Cranberry Chicken Salad recipe is not only easy to prepare but also endlessly versatile. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, packing lunch, or snacking smart, this healthy cranberry chicken salad recipe hits the spot. Make it once, and it could easily become your favorite!

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