cherry chicken salad recipe

cherry chicken salad recipe

The Best cherry chicken salad recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite cherry chicken salad recipe, a dish that’s been a staple in our household for years. This recipe is a classic, and for good reason – it’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and tastes amazing.

The combination of juicy chicken, sweet cherries, and crunchy pecans is a match made in heaven. My kids love helping me prepare this salad, and it’s always a hit at family gatherings.

Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a healthy dinner option, this recipe is a great choice. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile – you can serve it on a bed of greens as a salad, on whole grain bread as a sandwich, or even as a topping for a bed of rice or quinoa.

I’ve been making this recipe for years now, and I can honestly say it’s one of the best chicken salad recipes out there. It’s also super easy to customize – feel free to add or subtract ingredients to suit your taste preferences.

One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly healthy – with lean protein from the chicken, antioxidants from the cherries, and healthy fats from the pecans. Plus, it’s gluten-free and can be easily made dairy-free if needed.

Cherry Chicken Salad

Cherry Chicken Salad

4.9 from 1423 votes

A delightful salad featuring tender chicken, sweet cherries, and crunchy pecans tossed in a creamy dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or a refreshing dinner option.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time20 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Salad

2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
1 cup fresh cherries, pitted and halved
1/2 cup pecans, chopped
1/2 cup celery, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
4 cups mixed salad greens

For the Dressing

1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon honey
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, halved cherries, chopped pecans, diced celery, and finely chopped red onion.
2Toss gently to distribute the ingredients evenly.
3In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
4Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until everything is well coated.
5Divide the mixed salad greens among four plates.
6Spoon the cherry chicken salad mixture over the greens and serve immediately.
7For best flavor, chill the salad for 30 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Small bowl
Whisk
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 75mg🧂Sodium: 420mg🌾Total Carbs: 22g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 14g🥩Protein: 32g

📝Notes

For a dairy-free version, substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and use vegan mayonnaise. Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3 minutes to enhance their nutty flavor.

Watch Video Of How Cherry Chicken Salad Works

This cherry chicken salad recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just need a quick and healthy meal option.

The combination of flavors and textures is unmatched, and it’s incredibly easy to customize to suit your taste preferences.

My family loves helping me prepare this recipe, and we always look forward to enjoying it together as a delicious meal.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cherry Chicken Salad

What is the best type of chicken to use in this recipe?

I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs for this recipe. You can also use leftover roasted chicken if you have some on hand. Just be sure to chop it up into small pieces before adding it to the salad.

Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried cherries?

Yes, you can definitely use fresh cherries if they’re in season! Just be sure to chop them up into small pieces before adding them to the salad. Keep in mind that fresh cherries will give the salad a slightly different flavor profile than dried cherries.

How do I store this salad in the fridge?

To store this salad in the fridge, simply place it in an airtight container and keep it refrigerated at 40°F (4°C) or below. It will keep for up to 3 days without losing its texture or flavor.

Can I reheat this salad?

You can reheat this salad gently over low heat if you prefer your chicken warm. However, I recommend serving it chilled as originally intended for the best flavor and texture.

How do I serve this salad as a main course?

One of my favorite ways to serve this salad as a main course is by placing it on top of a bed of quinoa or brown rice. You can also add some steamed vegetables or roasted vegetables on the side for added nutrition and flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

This recipe is perfect for kids! They’ll love helping you prepare the ingredients and mixing together the dressing. Plus, it’s an excellent way to get them eating more fruits and vegetables.

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