Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing
A delightful dish bursting with flavor and texture, perfect for a light lunch or dinner featuring tender chicken, crunchy pecans, and sweet dried cranberries in a creamy poppy seed dressing.
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 375kcal
Ingredients
For the Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise Creamy and rich, it forms the base of our dressing.
- 1/4 cup sour cream Adds a tangy depth that balances the sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons honey Brings a hint of natural sweetness to the dish.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard Provides a subtle sharpness that complements the creaminess.
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds Adds a delightful crunch and visual appeal.
- to taste Salt Enhance flavors throughout the dish.
For the Salad
- 4 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped Tender and flavorful, this is the star of the salad.
- 1 cup pecans, chopped Introduces a nutty crunch that elevates the overall texture.
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries Offers a burst of sweetness and color.
- 4 green onions, chopped Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor for brightness.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, honey, Dijon mustard, and poppy seeds until smooth. Season this mixture with salt to taste.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped chicken, pecans, dried cranberries, and green onions.
- Pour the poppy seed dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
Serving
- Serve the salad immediately or chill in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.
Notes
For the best flavor, consider using rotisserie chicken. Substitute almonds for pecans for extra crunch. Incorporate a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice for a zing. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.