Irresistible Cranberry Pecan Chicken is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that brings joy to every meal. Featuring crunchy pecans, sweet dried cranberries, and tender chicken tossed in a creamy dressing, this dish is perfect for picnics, lunches, or elegant dinners. With its nutty and fruity elements, it’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Irresistible Cranberry Pecan Chicken
This delicious dish is not just a feast for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Here are several reasons to love it:
- It’s a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser.
- Quick and easy to prepare, ideal for busy weeknights.
- Nutritious and healthy, packed with protein and good fats.
- Great for meal prep; it keeps well in the fridge.
- Versatile; can be served as a salad or a hearty main dish.
- Perfect for holiday dinners or casual gatherings.
With this Cranberry Pecan Chicken Recipe, you’ll discover why it’s a favorite for many!
Ingredients for Irresistible Cranberry Pecan Chicken
Gather these items:
- 3-4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup toasted pecans
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Irresistible Cranberry Pecan Chicken Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breasts and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Step 2: While the chicken cools, finely chop the celery and slice the green onions.
- Step 3: In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Step 4: Once cooled, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Step 5: In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken with celery, green onions, cranberries, and pecans. Add the dressing and toss gently.
- Step 6: Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Pro Tips for the Best Irresistible Cranberry Pecan Chicken
Keep these tips in mind:
- This salad is great for meal prep; you can make it ahead and store it in the fridge.
- Serve with crackers or in a sandwich for a satisfying meal.
- Consider using a best cranberry pecan chicken marinade for added flavor.
Best Ways to Serve Irresistible Cranberry Pecan Chicken
Here are some ideas for serving:
- Serve it on a bed of mixed greens for a fresh salad.
- Make wraps using tortillas to create portable lunches.
- Pair with roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
How to Store and Reheat Irresistible Cranberry Pecan Chicken
To store, place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish is perfect for meal prep and can be kept for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or enjoy it cold as a salad.
Frequently Asked Questions About Irresistible Cranberry Pecan Chicken
What’s the secret to perfect Irresistible Cranberry Pecan Chicken?
The secret lies in the balance of flavors; using high-quality ingredients like fresh pecans and sweet cranberries will enhance the overall taste of this delicious cranberry pecan chicken dish.
Can I make Irresistible Cranberry Pecan Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance. It actually tastes better when the flavors have had time to meld. Just remember to store it properly in the fridge.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Irresistible Cranberry Pecan Chicken?
Ensure the chicken is cooked through to avoid any food safety issues. Additionally, don’t skip the chilling step; it helps to meld the flavors perfectly.
Variations of Irresistible Cranberry Pecan Chicken You Can Try
Get creative with these variations:
- Add feta cheese for a tangy twist.
- Incorporate spinach for extra nutrients.
- Use walnuts instead of pecans for a different crunch.
- Try a spicy cranberry sauce for a kick!
For more delicious recipes, check out our recipe category!
For more tips on meal prep, visit this guide.
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Irresistible Cranberry Pecan Chicken for Dinner Tonight
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that brings joy to every meal. Featuring crunchy pecans, sweet dried cranberries, and tender chicken tossed in a creamy dressing, this salad is perfect for picnics, lunches, or elegant dinners.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup toasted pecans
- ½ cup Greek yogurt
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breasts and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- While the chicken cools, finely chop the celery and slice the green onions.
- In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, honey, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Once cooled, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken with celery, green onions, cranberries, and pecans. Add the dressing and toss gently.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- This salad is great for meal prep.
- Serve with crackers or in a sandwich.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Baking and Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
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