Name: Cranberry Pecan Holiday Salad with Kale & Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: american
Ingredients: 2 medium boneless skinless chicken breasts; 4 cups chopped kale; 1/2 cup dried cranberries; 1/2 cup toasted pecans; 1/3 cup crumbled feta or goat cheese; 1/4 small red onion thinly sliced; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1.5 teaspoons honey or maple syrup; salt to taste; freshly ground pepper to taste

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Celebrate the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and festive color in this wholesome salad—ideal for holidays or everyday freshness.

A Festive Beginning: My First Cranberry Pecan Holiday Salad

Every family has that one dish that seems to capture the entire spirit of the holidays. For mine, it all began with the Cranberry Pecan Holiday Salad with Kale & Chicken—a bright, crunchy, and perfectly balanced bowl that quickly turned from an experiment into a yearly tradition. I still remember the first time I made it. It was a chilly December evening, the kitchen filled with the aroma of roasted chicken and the chatter of family members gathering around the table. I wanted to bring something new, something light to balance out the heavier holiday fare.

Cranberry Pecan Holiday Salad with Kale & Chicken

The idea of blending tender chicken with earthy kale, sweet cranberries, and toasted pecans came naturally. As I tossed the ingredients together, the mix of green, red, and golden hues looked like a celebration in itself. When I finally served it, I wasn’t sure what to expect. But after the first few bites, smiles spread across the table. My husband asked for seconds, my mother wanted the recipe, and my kids—usually cautious about anything “green”—asked for more chicken and pecans. By the end of the night, there wasn’t a single leaf of kale left in the bowl.

Since then, this Pecan Chicken Salad has become a frequent request, not just during the holidays but all year long. It’s a recipe that balances flavor and nutrition, making it one of our favorite Chicken Salad Recipes with Cranberries. Whether it’s for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or simply a weekend lunch, this colorful creation always brings that same spark of joy and togetherness that marked its debut.

Why This Vibrant Salad Deserves a Spot on Every Table

There’s something extraordinary about combining ingredients that contrast yet complement each other. The Cranberry Pecan Holiday Salad with Kale & Chicken delivers that perfect harmony—each element playing its part beautifully. The tart sweetness of dried cranberries, the buttery crunch of pecans, the juicy tenderness of lightly seasoned chicken, and the sturdy freshness of kale make every bite a small celebration.

What truly sets this Pecan Chicken Salad apart is its versatility. It’s robust enough to hold its own as a main dish yet light enough to pair with roasted meats, soups, or even sandwiches. Because kale holds up better than most greens, this salad can be made ahead of time—ideal for meal prep, potlucks, or busy holiday schedules.

Beyond its taste, the nutritional profile makes it a standout among Salads with Kale and Chicken. Packed with protein, antioxidants, fiber, and healthy fats, it nourishes the body as much as it delights the palate. Kale adds a wealth of vitamins A and C, cranberries offer immune-boosting antioxidants, and pecans contribute heart-healthy fats and a satisfying crunch.

In short, if you’re building a collection of wholesome, easy, and festive Chicken Salad Recipes, this dish deserves a top spot. It bridges comfort and freshness, indulgence and wellness—a rare and delicious balance. So whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or looking for a nutrient-rich weekday meal, let this salad brighten your table with flavor, color, and the warm feeling of togetherness that every great recipe should bring.

Ingredients & Preparation Guide

Fresh Ingredients for a Colorful Salad

The magic of this Cranberry Pecan Holiday Salad lies in the freshness of its ingredients and the way each one contributes to both texture and flavor. From tender chicken to crisp kale and buttery pecans, every element is part of a beautiful flavor harmony. Whether you’re making it as a side or a full meal, quality ingredients will always make the difference.

Ingredient	Amount	Purpose & Flavor Note
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts	2 medium (about 12 oz)	Adds lean protein and savory depth to balance the sweetness of the cranberries.
Fresh kale (curly or lacinato)	4 packed cups	Provides hearty texture, nutrient density, and a base that holds up well for dressing.
Dried cranberries	½ cup	Brings a tart-sweet flavor that brightens each bite.
Toasted pecans	½ cup, roughly chopped	Adds buttery crunch and warmth to complement the kale and chicken.
Crumbled feta or goat cheese	⅓ cup	Offers creaminess and a gentle tang.
Red onion	¼ small, thinly sliced	Adds color contrast and a subtle bite of sharpness.
Olive oil	3 tbsp	Core ingredient for the dressing, binds flavors and adds smooth richness.
Apple cider vinegar	2 tbsp	Balances the flavors with acidity and freshness.
Dijon mustard	1 tsp	Infuses depth and mild spice into the dressing.
Honey or maple syrup	1½ tsp	Adds a touch of natural sweetness to enhance cranberries.
Salt & freshly ground pepper	To taste	Essential for seasoning and balancing taste.

Optional Variations:

Apple twist: Add finely diced Honeycrisp or Fuji apples for extra sweetness and crunch.
Protein swaps: Substitute cooked turkey or grilled tofu for the chicken to fit dietary preferences.
Nut options: Try walnuts or almonds in place of pecans for a different nutty flavor.

Simple Step-by-Step Preparation

Making this Cranberry Pecan Holiday Salad with Kale & Chicken is just as simple as it is rewarding. The process can be done in under 30 minutes, yet the final presentation looks worthy of any holiday spread.

Tools You’ll Need:

Cutting board & knife
Large mixing bowl
Medium skillet or grill pan
Small whisk or jar for dressing
Serving platter or salad bowl

Prepare the Chicken (10–12 minutes): Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and olive oil. Cook over medium heat 5–6 minutes per side until done. Rest, then slice or dice.
Toast the Pecans (3–4 minutes): Toast in a dry skillet over medium-low heat until fragrant.
Massage the Kale (2–3 minutes): Wash, dry, and chop kale. Drizzle with olive oil and salt, then massage until softened.
Mix the Dressing (2 minutes): Whisk olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon, honey, salt, and pepper. Adjust to taste.
Assemble the Salad (5 minutes): Combine kale, chicken, pecans, cranberries, cheese, and onion. Add dressing and toss.
Serve and Enjoy: Transfer to a platter or store chilled. The flavor deepens after a few hours.

Pro Tips: Marinate chicken before cooking for tenderness, dress kale just before serving to keep crisp, and use rotisserie chicken if short on time.

Flavor Pairings & Nutritional Value

Perfect Pairings for Every Occasion

The beauty of the Cranberry Pecan Holiday Salad with Kale & Chicken lies in its flexibility—it fits seamlessly into any menu, from casual lunches to refined holiday dinners. While it shines on its own, pairing it thoughtfully can elevate the entire meal experience.

As a Standalone Meal: Serve with baguette or roasted sweet potatoes for a complete meal.
With Holiday Mains: Pair with glazed ham, turkey, or salmon for an elegant feast.
Inside a Sandwich or Wrap: Use the salad as filling for whole-grain bread or tortillas—ideal for meal prep.
As a Refreshing Side: Serve alongside soups or casseroles to add balance and texture.
Beverage Pairings: Try sparkling cider, cranberry spritzers, or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the flavors.

Meal Prep Tip: Store components separately—dressing in a jar, toppings in containers, and chicken chilled. Combine before serving for peak freshness.

Nutritional Highlights & Health Benefits

Flavor aside, this Cranberry Pecan Holiday Salad delivers a balanced nutritional profile, making it one of the most satisfying Healthy Chicken Salads you can enjoy year-round.

Nutrient	Approximate Amount per Serving	Health Benefit
Calories	~380	Balanced for a main or side dish.
Protein	28g	Supports muscle growth and repair.
Fiber	4g	Aids digestion and promotes fullness.
Healthy Fats	15g	Heart-healthy from pecans and olive oil.
Vitamin A	90% DV	Promotes vision and immunity.
Vitamin C	70% DV	Boosts collagen and immune function.
Iron	10% DV	Supports energy and red blood cells.

Each serving of this Chicken Salad Recipe with Kale offers a nourishing trio—protein, antioxidants, and healthy fats. The kale adds vitamins A, C, and K, while pecans and olive oil deliver sustained energy through natural fats.

Antioxidant Power: Cranberries support wellness through antioxidant compounds.
Heart-Healthy Fats: Pecans provide beneficial monounsaturated fats.
Sustained Energy: Balanced macronutrients deliver satisfying energy.
Immunity Support: Kale and cranberries boost cold-season resilience.

FAQs & Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions about Cranberry Pecan Holiday Salad

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, it stores well when prepared in advance. Keep dressing separate and toss before serving for crisp kale. Perfect for meal prep or holiday cooking.

How long does it last in the fridge?
The salad lasts up to three days refrigerated. For best results, store chicken and dressing separately and combine fresh when ready to serve.

Can I replace kale with spinach or other greens?
Yes. Substitute with spinach, arugula, or mixed greens for a lighter bite while keeping the flavors balanced.

What dressing works best?
A tangy-sweet vinaigrette with apple cider vinegar and honey pairs perfectly. For creamier options, try light yogurt or poppy seed dressing.

How can I make it vegetarian?
Skip the chicken and add roasted chickpeas, tofu, or quinoa for a high-protein plant-based meal with the same festive flavor profile.

Bringing It All Together: A Festive Tradition in Every Bite

Every holiday table tells a story—and this Cranberry Pecan Holiday Salad with Kale & Chicken is mine. From that first dinner when laughter filled the kitchen to today, it remains a symbol of warmth and togetherness shared through simple, wholesome food.

The crisp kale, tender chicken, tart cranberries, and buttery pecans are more than ingredients—they’re a reminder that celebration lives in every flavorful bite. Whether for a crowd or a quiet weekday lunch, this dish adds brightness, comfort, and connection to your table.

So, when planning your next gathering, make this Pecan Chicken Salad part of the occasion. Its colorful layers, nourishing ingredients, and joyful simplicity bring the essence of festive cooking home to every season.

Final Keywords: Chicken Salad Recipes with Cranberries, Pecan Chicken Salads, Colorful Salad Kale