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Chicken Salad Recipe (Easy, Make-Ahead Classic)

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This Chicken Salad Recipe by Chelsea Lords is perfect for lunch, on-the-go meals, or hosting. It’s an easy make-ahead dish that gets even better as it chills, combining tender chicken with crunchy nuts, sweet cranberries, and a creamy, tangy dressing.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups rotisserie chicken, diced
  • 1/2 cup pecans, coarsely chopped
  • 1/3 cup dried cranberries
  • 2 stalks celery, thinly sliced (about 1/2 cup)
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons Dijon-style mustard
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons poppy seeds (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Optional: Toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant, stirring often. Let cool and chop.
  2. In a large bowl, combine all salad ingredients.
  3. Season with salt and pepper, starting with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon pepper.
  4. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  6. Serve on croissants with lettuce, or alongside apples, celery, and crackers.

Notes

  • Pecans can be swapped with almonds, pistachios, or walnuts.
  • Honey-roasted pecans can be used without toasting.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–5 days.
  • Nutritional information is calculated without bread or salad greens.
  • Author: lily
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American