This Cranberry Chicken Salad Recipe with Almonds is a flavorful combination of tender chicken, juicy cranberries, and crunchy almonds, all tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing. Perfectly balanced with sweet, savory, and nutty flavors, this recipe is versatile enough to serve on its own, in sandwiches, or as a topping for fresh greens. Whether you’re preparing a quick lunch or a dish for a gathering, this Cranberry Chicken Salad Recipe with Almonds is easy to make and sure to impress. Enjoy it as a refreshing, protein-packed meal or snack!

Ingredients:

Ingredients for the cranberry chicken salad recipe with almonds:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish

Execution

Step-by-Step Method for the cranberry chicken salad recipe with almonds:

• Prepare the Dressing:
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option), 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper.
  • Whisk the ingredients together until smooth and creamy. The dressing should have a balanced tangy flavor, so adjust the seasoning to taste if needed.
• Add the Main Ingredients:
  • Stir in 2 cups of cooked, shredded or cubed chicken (rotisserie chicken works great for convenience).
  • Add ½ cup dried cranberries and ⅓ cup sliced almonds.
  • Gently fold everything together, ensuring the chicken, cranberries, and almonds are evenly coated with the dressing for consistent flavor in every bite.
• Optional Add-Ins:
  • For extra crunch, stir in ¼ cup finely chopped celery.
  • Add 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice for a hint of brightness if desired.
• Chill:
  • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and develop, creating a more delicious and cohesive dish.
• Serve:
  • Before serving, garnish the salad with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a touch of color and added freshness.
  • Enjoy it as a sandwich filling in your favorite bread or croissants, as a topping for crisp salad greens, or simply on its own with crackers for a satisfying snack.
• Store Leftovers:
  • If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir well before serving again to redistribute the dressing.

Tips:

For the Best cranberry chicken salad recipe with almonds:

• Use rotisserie chicken: For convenience and enhanced flavor, use shredded rotisserie chicken. It’s juicy, tender, and saves time, making your Cranberry Chicken Salad Recipe with Almonds even easier to prepare.
• Toast the almonds: Toasting the almonds before adding them to the salad brings out their rich, nutty flavor. Simply place them in a dry skillet over medium heat and stir until golden and fragrant, then let cool before mixing.
• Make it sweeter: If you prefer a sweeter twist, drizzle a teaspoon of honey into the dressing. This complements the cranberries beautifully and adds a subtle balance to the savory flavors in the Cranberry Chicken Salad Recipe with Almonds.
• Store properly: Keep your Cranberry Chicken Salad Recipe with Almonds fresh by storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay delicious for up to 3 days. Stir before serving to ensure the dressing is evenly distributed.
• Add crunch: If you love extra crunch, mix in some finely chopped celery or diced apples to give your Cranberry Chicken Salad Recipe with Almonds a refreshing texture.

FAQs:

• Can I use fresh cranberries? Yes, chop them finely and add a little sugar to balance their tartness.
• What’s a good mayo substitute? Use Greek yogurt or mashed avocado for a creamy alternative.
• Can I make this nut-free? Yes, substitute almonds with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely.
• How can I serve this salad? Serve it on sandwiches, crackers, or wrapped in lettuce leaves for a low-carb option.

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