Name: Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American / Fusion
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed; 4 cups mixed salad greens (spinach, arugula, or spring mix); ½ cup dried cranberries; ⅓ cup chopped toasted pecans; ¼ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese; ¼ small red onion, thinly sliced; 1 apple, thinly sliced (optional for extra sweetness and crunch); For the poppy seed dressing: 3 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 1 tbsp poppy seeds; Salt and black pepper, to taste

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Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is one of those crave-worthy salads that checks every box — sweet, savory, crunchy, and creamy all at once. I love how the tart cranberries balance the richness of the chicken, the toasted pecans add that perfect crunch, and the poppy seed dressing ties everything together with a touch of sweetness. It’s light but satisfying and makes a gorgeous lunch, dinner, or meal prep option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this salad because it’s full of contrast and texture in every bite. It’s a great way to use up leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken, and it feels a little elevated with very little effort. The poppy seed dressing gives it a unique twist, and the ingredients come together in a way that makes this salad feel like more than just greens — it’s a full, satisfying meal. Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the salad:

Cooked chicken breast (shredded or cubed)
Mixed salad greens (like spinach, arugula, or spring mix)
Dried cranberries
Chopped toasted pecans
Crumbled feta or goat cheese
Sliced red onion
Apple slices (optional, for extra sweetness and crunch)

For the poppy seed dressing:

Olive oil
Apple cider vinegar
Honey or maple syrup
Dijon mustard
Poppy seeds
Salt and pepper

Directions

I start by making the dressing: in a small jar or bowl, I whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, honey, mustard, poppy seeds, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
In a large salad bowl, I add the mixed greens, cooked chicken, cranberries, pecans, cheese, red onion, and apples if I’m using them.
I drizzle the poppy seed dressing over the top and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
I serve immediately, with extra dressing on the side if needed.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 3–4 people as a main dish or 5–6 as a side. It takes about 15 minutes total — just a little chopping and mixing.

Variations

Sometimes I swap the chicken for turkey, especially around the holidays. I’ve also added avocado slices for creaminess or used candied pecans for a sweeter crunch. If I’m in the mood for a heartier meal, I serve it with quinoa or wild rice mixed in. For a dairy-free version, I skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

Storage/Reheating

If I’m making this ahead, I keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to keep the greens fresh. The salad components (except apples) will stay good in the fridge for up to 3 days. I don’t reheat it — it’s meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing

FAQs

Can I use store-bought poppy seed dressing?

Yes, but I prefer homemade for a fresher, more balanced flavor. Store-bought works great when I’m short on time.

What kind of chicken works best?

I usually use shredded rotisserie chicken or grilled chicken breast. Any cooked chicken works as long as it’s seasoned and not overly saucy.

Can I make this salad ahead?

Yes! I prep everything ahead and store the components separately. I assemble and dress the salad right before eating to keep it crisp.

What greens work best?

I like using a mix of baby spinach, arugula, and spring greens. Romaine or kale also work well, depending on what I have on hand.

Is the dressing very sweet?

It’s lightly sweet, but I adjust the honey or maple to my taste. If I want more tang, I add a splash more vinegar.

Conclusion

Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing is the kind of fresh, flavorful dish I can eat on repeat. It’s quick to make, full of texture and contrast, and always feels a little special. Whether I’m serving it for lunch, meal-prepping for the week, or bringing it to a gathering, this salad always stands out and keeps everyone coming back for more.