Chicken Salad Recipe with Pecans
Why I Love This Recipe
This pecan chicken salad recipe is my ultimate summer chicken salad recipe. It’s a fruity chicken salad recipe at heart, but it’s super flexible. Sometimes I turn it into a chicken salad with grapes recipe or a chicken salad with cranberries recipe—other times, I swap in apples. It’s perfect for feeding a family of four or packing up for weekday lunches. And if you need a chicken salad recipe no grapes or a chicken salad recipe without grapes, simply leave them out. You’re still left with a crunchy, savory-sweet classic!
Servings
Feeds about 4 people with possible leftovers (hello, next-day lunch!).
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Serves
4–6 people
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter touch)
- 1/2 cup diced apples or grapes (optional but delicious)
- 1/4 cup diced celery
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method
Step 1: Combine the Chicken and Pecans
In a bowl, place your cooked chicken and chopped pecans.
Step 2: Add the Mix-Ins
Stir in diced apples or grapes (if you want a chicken salad recipe with grapes and apples), celery, and red onion.
Step 3: Dress It Up
Fold in the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt) and season with salt and pepper. Give it a good stir.
Step 4: Chill & Serve
Let it sit for 5 minutes. Serve in sandwiches, lettuce wraps, or straight from the bowl!
Tips & Variations
- Cranberry Twist: For a chicken salad with cranberries recipe, toss in a handful of dried cranberries.
- Fruit-Free Version: For a chicken salad recipe without grapes or apples, simply skip them. The pecans still provide crunch!
- Extra Zing: A small squeeze of lemon juice brightens the flavor.
Nutrition
- 300 calories
- 20g protein
- 5g carbs
- 20g fat
Diet & Allergen Info
Gluten-free as is (depending on serving method). Contains nuts (pecans). Dairy-free if you swap mayo for a dairy-free alternative.
Storage Suggestions
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days. Stir before serving again. It makes a terrific midday snack!
FAQ
Can I use canned chicken?
Yes! Just drain it well and proceed with the same steps.
Do I have to toast the pecans?
Toasting brings out extra flavor, but it’s optional. I find it’s worth the extra minute!
