Apple pecan chicken salad is a timeless classic, a delightful mix of creamy, crunchy, and sweet that makes it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a sophisticated bridal shower, a casual baby shower, or simply looking for a satisfying lunch, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. And what better way to showcase this culinary creation than with the charming elegance of The Pioneer Woman Sweet Rose Nesting Baker Set With Lids? This recipe, perfect in its simplicity and flavor, is about to become your new favorite.
apple pecan chicken salad in a floral bowl
I’ve remade this apple pecan chicken salad recipe more times than I can count, each time striving for that perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s a dish that’s forgiving, adaptable, and consistently delicious. While capturing its essence in a photograph has been a humorous challenge for me in the past, the taste always speaks for itself. Forget complicated meals; this chicken salad is about bringing joy to your table with minimal fuss.
apples on a cutting board, chopped pecans in a measuring cup, and cooked and shredded chicken in a bowl
While some might opt for canned chicken for convenience, I wholeheartedly recommend starting with freshly cooked chicken. Preparing a large batch of shredded chicken in the instant pot is my go-to method. It ensures juicy, flavorful chicken that elevates the entire salad. Having pre-shredded chicken on hand is also a fantastic time-saver for busy weeknights and impromptu gatherings.
Related Recipe: Big Batch Instant Pot Shredded Chicken
The Heart of the Salad: Key Ingredients
Let’s delve into the ingredients that make this apple pecan chicken salad truly special:
Shredded Cooked Chicken: The foundation of our salad. Whether you choose my preferred instant pot method, rotisserie chicken, or leftover turkey, ensure it’s cooked and cooled. Canned chicken, thoroughly drained, is also an option in a pinch.
chicken, chopped celery, chopped apples, and chopped pecan s in a metal bow
Mayonnaise: The creamy binder that brings everything together. Classic mayonnaise is my choice for its rich flavor. For a lighter alternative, Greek yogurt can be substituted, offering a tangy twist.
Apples: Gala apples are my go-to for their crispness and balanced sweetness, but feel free to experiment with varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji. If apples aren’t available, grapes can offer a similar sweet and juicy element.
chopped pecans, chopped apples, chopped celery, and mayo in a metal bowl
Celery: Essential for that satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy chicken and soft apples. Finely chop the celery for the best texture distribution.
Pecan Pieces: The nutty crunch of pecans is a signature element. Pecan pieces are perfect for chicken salad, but you could also use sliced or slivered almonds for a different nutty profile.
Poppy Seeds: These tiny seeds add a subtle pop of texture and visual appeal. While optional, I highly recommend them for that extra touch of elegance.
apple pecan chicken salad on a bed of lettuce with fruit on a floral plate
Elevating Your Chicken Salad: Optional Additions
Want to customize your apple pecan chicken salad further? Consider these delicious additions:
Craisins or Dried Cranberries: For an extra layer of sweetness and chewiness that complements the apples and pecans beautifully.
Canned Pineapple Tidbits: Drained pineapple tidbits introduce a tropical sweetness and juicy burst, adding another dimension to the flavor profile.
Freshness and Storage Tips
How Long Does Chicken Salad Last?
Properly stored in the refrigerator, your apple pecan chicken salad will remain fresh and delicious for 3 to 4 days. This makes it an ideal make-ahead dish for gatherings or meal prepping.
Serving Suggestions for Apple Pecan Chicken Salad
Chicken salad is incredibly versatile. Serve it:
- In Sandwiches or Wraps: Classic and satisfying for lunch or a light dinner.
- On Crackers or Crostini: Perfect as an appetizer for parties.
- Over a Bed of Lettuce: A refreshing and healthy salad option.
- Stuffed in Tomatoes or Avocados: An elegant and low-carb presentation.
I love to serve apple pecan chicken salad sandwiches with a side of crispy chips, fresh fruit, or a light garden salad for a complete and balanced meal.
Pin this recipe or click the ❤️ to save it for later!
Apple Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe
Apple pecan chicken salad, a delightful blend of flavors and textures, is effortlessly easy to prepare ahead of time, making it perfect for parties or a week of delicious lunches.
5 from 3 votes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Author: Amy D
Ingredients
- 5 cups shredded chicken
- 3 ribs celery (finely chopped)
- 2 apples (cored and diced)
- 1 cup pecan pieces
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 teaspoons poppy seeds
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash and chop the celery and apples into small pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped celery, diced apples, pecan pieces, mayonnaise, and poppy seeds.
- Season generously with salt and pepper, adjusting to your taste preferences.
- Cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate until you are ready to serve, allowing the flavors to meld.
Recipe Notes
For optimal freshness, consume this apple pecan chicken salad within 3-4 days when stored in the refrigerator.
Variations and Add-ins: Explore different flavor profiles by substituting grapes or pineapple for apples. Almonds or cashews can replace pecans for a nuttier twist. Craisins or dried cranberries are wonderful additions for extra sweetness.
Recommended Products for Serving and Preparation
To truly elevate your apple pecan chicken salad presentation, I highly recommend serving it in The Pioneer Woman Sweet Rose Nesting Baker Set with Lids. These charming and versatile bakers are not only beautiful serving dishes but also incredibly practical for prepping and storing your ingredients. Imagine presenting your creamy chicken salad in one of these delightful floral bowls – it’s sure to impress your guests and add a touch of country elegance to your table. The lids are also perfect for keeping your salad fresh in the refrigerator.
Victorinox 3.25 Inch Classic Paring Knife Victorinox 3.25 Inch Classic Paring Knife
Large Acacia Wood Cutting Board
Did You Make this Recipe? Please leave a review or share a photo! I’d love to hear about your experience!
