Cranberry Almond Chicken Salad

A delightful dish combining tender chicken, the sweetness of dried cranberries, and the crunch of toasted almonds, perfect for any gathering.

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 10

Total Time 4

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner, Lunch, Salad

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

For the dressing

1 cup real mayonnaise Rich and creamy, it forms the luscious base of our salad.
2/3 cup prepared poppyseed salad dressing Adds a sweet, tangy twist that enhances the overall flavor profile.
2 Tbsp chopped chives Aromatic and slightly oniony, they bring freshness to the dish.
1/2 tsp salt Balances the flavors.
1/2 tsp onion powder Provides a savory depth.
1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper Adds a subtle kick.
1/4 tsp granulated garlic or garlic powder Gives a warm, garlicky undertone.

For the chicken salad

4-5 cups chopped roasted chicken Juicy and flavorful, it's the heart of the salad.
2/3 cup celery (finely diced) Adds a crisp texture and refreshing bite.
1/3 cup toasted almond slices Crunchy and nutty, they provide a delightful contrast.
1/2 cup dried cranberries Sweet and chewy, they perfectly complement the savory chicken.
8 pieces onion rolls (croissants or slider rolls) Soft and flavorful, they serve as the ideal vessel for our salad.
Green leaf or Bibb lettuce leaves Crisp and vibrant, they add freshness to the overall presentation.

Method

Toast Almonds

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the almond slices evenly on a sheet pan and roast them in the oven for about 4-6 minutes. Watch closely until they turn lightly golden and release a wonderful aroma. Set aside to cool.

Prepare the Dressing

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, poppy seed dressing, chopped chives, salt, onion powder, black pepper, and granulated garlic until fully combined for a smooth and creamy consistency.

Combine Chicken Salad

Add chopped roasted chicken, diced celery, toasted almond slices, and dried cranberries to the bowl with the dressing. Gently mix everything together until thoroughly combined.

Chill

Transfer the chicken salad into an airtight container and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Serve

Serve the chicken salad on onion rolls, croissants, or slider rolls, layered with fresh lettuce leaves for added crunch and color.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the dressing. Incorporate different nuts such as walnuts or pecans for a unique twist. For a lighter option, substitute yogurt for half the mayonnaise.