Ingredients:

  • 3 cups cooked Chicken Breast, shredded or diced
  • 2 medium Celery Stalks, finely diced
  • 2 Tbsp Red Onion, very finely minced
  • 1/2 cup Dried Cranberries
  • 1/2 cup Pecans, coarsely chopped and toasted
  • 1/2 cup Full-Fat Mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream
  • 1 Tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice
  • 1 tsp Dijon Mustard
  • 1 Tbsp Fresh Dill, finely chopped
  • 1 Tbsp Fresh Chives, finely snipped
  • 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 tsp Black Pepper, freshly cracked

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Chicken: If using fresh chicken, poach two large chicken breasts until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Allow them to cool completely before shredding or dicing into even, manageable pieces.
  2. Toast the Pecans: Place the chopped pecans in a dry, small skillet over medium-low heat. Cook, stirring frequently, for 3-5 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden. Remove immediately and let cool completely.
  3. Dice the Crunch: Finely dice the celery and red onion. Ensure the red onion is minced very small so its flavour blends without overpowering.
  4. Combine Solids: Place the cooled chicken, toasted pecans, diced celery, minced onion, and dried cranberries into the large mixing bowl.
  5. Whisk the Wet Ingredients: In a separate, small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), lemon juice, and Dijon mustard until smooth and well-combined.
  6. Add Herbs: Stir in the fresh dill and chives.
  7. Dress the Chicken: Pour the entire dressing mixture over the chicken and texture ingredients.
  8. Fold Gently: Using a rubber spatula, gently fold the mixture together until all the chicken pieces are lightly coated. Avoid aggressive mixing, as this can break down the ingredients.
  9. Season and Rest (Crucial Step): Season the salad with the initial amounts of salt and pepper. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavours to properly marry up.
  10. Final Taste Check: Before serving, taste the chilled salad. Adjust the seasoning (add more salt, pepper, or a final squeeze of lemon juice) as needed to achieve a bright, balanced flavour.