Ingredients:

  • 2 large (approx. 1 lb) Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken)
  • Water or chicken stock (enough to cover)
  • 1 Bay leaf
  • 1 tsp Kosher Salt (for poaching)
  • 1/2 cup Full-fat Mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup Plain Greek Yogurt (or Sour Cream)
  • 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard
  • 1 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice
  • 2 stalks Celery, finely diced
  • 2 tbsp Red Onion or Shallot, very finely minced
  • 1/2 cup Dried Cranberries
  • 1/2 cup Pecans, roughly chopped, lightly toasted
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Dill or Parsley, chopped fine
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
  • Kosher Salt (to taste)

Instructions:

  1. Poach the Chicken (If starting raw): Place the chicken breasts in a pot with stock or water, bay leaf, and salt. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  2. Cool and Shred: Remove the chicken and allow it to cool completely. Shred the chicken coarsely using two forks or dice it into 1 cm (1/2 inch) pieces.
  3. Toast the Pecans: Place the chopped pecans in a dry, small frying pan over medium heat. Toast for 3–5 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant. Remove immediately and let cool completely.
  4. Prep the Mix-ins: Finely dice the celery and mince the red onion/shallot. Chop the fresh herbs.
  5. Whisk the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Whisk until completely smooth and creamy.
  6. Season the Base: Season the dressing lightly with pepper and a pinch of salt.
  7. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooled, shredded chicken, dried cranberries, diced celery, minced onion, toasted pecans, and chopped herbs to the dressing bowl.
  8. Fold Gently: Using a spatula, fold all ingredients together until the chicken is evenly coated. Be careful not to over-mix.
  9. Chill (Crucial Step): Cover the bowl and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  10. Final Check: Taste the chicken salad and adjust the seasoning one last time, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed before serving.