Delicious Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe for Summer Fun

When it comes to a refreshing and hearty dish that dances on your taste buds, the Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe takes center stage. Picture tender chicken mingling with crunchy pecans, vibrant veggies, and a creamy dressing that feels like a warm hug on a plate. The aroma wafts through the kitchen, promising a flavor explosion that elevates any meal.

This recipe not only captures the essence of comfort food but also brings back memories of summer picnics and family gatherings. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel nostalgic while also being versatile enough for any occasion—from casual lunches to elegant brunches. Get ready for a delightful culinary experience that will leave your taste buds singing with joy.

Ingredients for Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe; adjust based on your serving needs.

• Pecans: Toasted pecans add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor; chop them coarsely for best results.

• Celery: Finely chopped celery provides freshness and crunch; choose firm stalks for the best flavor.

• Red Grapes: Sweet red grapes give a pop of color and sweetness; slice them in half for easy mixing.

• Greek Yogurt: This creamy base replaces mayonnaise in the dressing, adding tanginess without extra calories.

• Dijon Mustard: A spoonful of Dijon mustard adds depth and enhances the overall flavor of the salad.

For seasoning:

• Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all flavors; season to taste before serving.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the boneless chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Season generously with salt and pepper. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until cooked through, then allow them to cool before shredding.

Step 2: Chop the Veggies

While the chicken cools, grab your trusty knife and chop up some celery into fine pieces—about one cup should do. Slice those red grapes in half too; no one wants a whole grape rolling around in their salad!

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

In a mixing bowl, combine about half a cup of Greek yogurt with two tablespoons of Dijon mustard. Stir until smooth and creamy. Add salt and pepper to taste; this will be the glue holding your fabulous salad together!

Step 4: Mix It All Together

In a large bowl, add shredded chicken, chopped celery, halved grapes, and toasted pecans. Pour in your creamy dressing and gently toss everything together until well combined.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

Cover your bowl with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour—this allows all those flavors to mingle like old friends at a reunion.

Step 6: Serve Up Your Masterpiece

Scoop out portions onto plates or serve on crisp lettuce leaves for an elegant touch. Drizzle with extra yogurt dressing if desired for an added zing!

Now you have transformed humble ingredients into an extraordinary Pecan Chicken Salad that’s sure to impress! Serve it during lunch gatherings or as part of your picnic spread—no one can resist this delightful dish!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by poaching the chicken until it’s juicy and tender. While it cools, chop your veggies and pecans. Combine everything in a bowl, and toss with your favorite dressing for a quick assembly that leads to flavor town.

Add Your Touch

Don’t hesitate to swap out ingredients! Try using walnuts instead of pecans or add some dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness. Feel free to experiment with different dressings like ranch or honey mustard to keep things exciting.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Pecan Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For best results, enjoy it cold; just give it a good stir before serving again.

Sometimes, I make this Pecan Chicken Salad for potlucks, and it’s always gone before you can say “delicious!” Friends rave about it, often asking for the recipe—it’s my secret weapon for impressing guests!

FAQs:

What ingredients are needed for the Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe?

To make a delicious Pecan Chicken Salad, you will need cooked chicken breast, chopped pecans, celery, grapes, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and some seasonings like salt and pepper. You can also add herbs like dill or parsley for extra flavor. This combination creates a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors. Feel free to modify the recipe by adding other ingredients like apples or cranberries for an extra twist.

How long can I store the Pecan Chicken Salad?

You can store your Pecan Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, ensure they are kept cold. Before serving leftovers, give it a stir; this helps redistribute the dressing that may have settled. Always check for freshness before consuming.

Can I make the Pecan Chicken Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Pecan Chicken Salad up to 24 hours in advance. Making it ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully in the refrigerator. However, if you plan to store it longer than a day, consider adding the pecans just before serving to maintain their crunchiness. This way, your salad will be fresh and enjoyable when it’s time to eat.

What are some variations of the Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe?

There are several delightful variations you can try with your Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe. For instance, you can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a healthier option or add diced apples for sweetness. Another idea is to incorporate different nuts such as walnuts or almonds for diverse textures and flavors. Experiment with different herbs and spices to create a unique version that suits your taste.

Conclusion for Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe:

In summary, the Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe is an easy and versatile dish perfect for lunch or dinner. With its delightful blend of chicken, pecans, and fresh ingredients, this salad offers both nutrition and flavor. You can customize it based on your preferences by adding fruits or changing up the dressing. Enjoy this refreshing salad any time of year as a quick meal or a delightful side dish at gatherings!

Print

Pecan Chicken Salad

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Pecan Chicken Salad is a deliciously refreshing dish that combines tender chicken, crunchy pecans, and vibrant veggies, all enveloped in a creamy Greek yogurt dressing. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this versatile salad can be served on its own, as a sandwich filling, or atop crisp greens. Quick to make and full of flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite that impresses at any gathering.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6
• Category: Salad
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
• 1 cup toasted pecans (coarsely chopped)
• 1 cup celery (finely chopped)
• 1 cup red grapes (halved)
• ½ cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken breasts on a parchment-lined baking sheet, season with salt and pepper, and bake for 25-30 minutes until cooked through. Allow cooling before shredding.
2. While the chicken cools, chop the celery and halve the grapes.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt and Dijon mustard; season with salt and pepper.
4. In a large bowl, mix shredded chicken, celery, grapes, and pecans. Pour in the dressing mixture and toss gently to coat.
5. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 200g)
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: - For added sweetness, consider incorporating diced apples or dried cranberries. - Substitute walnuts for pecans for a different nutty flavor. - Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.