Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Wraps Simple and Tasty

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Looking for a fun and easy recipe that packs flavor? Try my Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Wraps! This dish combines tender chicken with sweet cranberries and crunchy pecans, all held in a delicious wrap. Perfect for lunch or a light dinner, these wraps are simple to make and full of taste. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this quick meal your family will love!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Balanced Flavors: This wrap combines the sweetness of cranberries with the crunch of pecans and the savory taste of chicken, creating a perfectly balanced dish.
  2. Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 15 minutes, it’s a hassle-free meal option for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
  3. Healthier Alternative: Using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise makes this recipe lighter, while still being creamy and delicious.
  4. Versatile Serving Options: Whether you prefer lettuce wraps for a low-carb option or whole wheat tortillas for a heartier meal, this recipe adapts to your dietary needs.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients Required

– 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded

– 1/2 cup dried cranberries

– 1/2 cup pecans, coarsely chopped

– 1/2 cup celery, finely diced

– 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced

– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (plain)

These main ingredients create a lovely mix of flavors. The shredded chicken gives protein and texture. Dried cranberries add sweetness, while pecans give a nice crunch. Celery and red onion add freshness and a bit of bite. The Greek yogurt brings creaminess and tanginess, tying everything together.

Optional Ingredients

– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

– 1 tablespoon honey

– 4 large lettuce leaves (such as romaine or butter) or whole wheat tortillas

– Fresh spinach or mixed greens for garnish

You can add Dijon mustard and honey for extra flavor. Lettuce leaves or whole wheat tortillas serve as the wrap. Fresh spinach or mixed greens make a pretty garnish and add a pop of color.

Tools and Equipment

– Mixing bowls

– Whisk

– Serving platter

Using mixing bowls helps to combine all your ingredients well. A whisk is great for mixing the yogurt dressing until smooth. A serving platter makes your wraps look nice when serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken Salad Mixture

– In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of shredded chicken, 1/2 cup of dried cranberries, 1/2 cup of coarsely chopped pecans, 1/2 cup of finely diced celery, and 1/4 cup of finely diced red onion.

– Mix these ingredients gently until they are well combined. You want everything to be evenly distributed for the best flavor in each bite.

Making the Yogurt Dressing

– In a smaller bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of plain Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon of honey, and a pinch of salt and black pepper.

– Make sure the dressing is smooth and creamy. This dressing will bring all the flavors together.

Assembling the Wraps

– Lay out 4 large lettuce leaves or warm whole wheat tortillas on a clean surface. If you use tortillas, warming them in a pan for a minute makes them easier to wrap.

– Scoop a generous amount of the chicken salad mixture onto the center of each lettuce leaf or tortilla.

– Roll or fold the wraps securely. For lettuce wraps, tuck in the sides and roll from the bottom. For tortillas, roll tightly and cut them in half for serving.

– Serve these wraps right away for the best taste. If you need to, refrigerate them for up to one hour to let the flavors blend.

Tips & Tricks

Serving Suggestions

To make your platter pop, arrange the wraps nicely on a large plate. Nestle them in fresh spinach or mixed greens for a lovely green touch. For a sweet finish, drizzle a little honey over the top. This adds taste and looks great. You can pair your wraps with a light soup or fresh fruit. A glass of iced tea or lemonade works well too.

Cooking Tips

Make sure your chicken is shredded well. Use two forks or your hands to get nice, small pieces. This helps mix everything evenly in the salad. If you choose tortillas, warm them in a dry skillet for one to two minutes. This makes them soft and easy to roll without breaking.

Flavor Enhancements

Want more flavor? You can add chopped herbs like parsley or dill. A sprinkle of black pepper or a dash of cayenne can give it a kick. If you want a different dressing, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of apple cider vinegar. These changes can make your chicken salad even tastier.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker prep, consider using store-bought rotisserie chicken. It’s flavorful and saves time on cooking.
  2. Customize Your Nuts: If you prefer a different nut, feel free to substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a unique twist.
  3. Flavor Enhancements: Add a sprinkle of garlic powder or a dash of cayenne pepper to the yogurt dressing for an extra kick of flavor.
  4. Chill for Best Results: Allow the chicken salad to chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld beautifully.

Variations

Different Protein Options

You can switch out the chicken in this recipe for turkey or tofu. Turkey gives a similar taste and works well in wraps. If you prefer a plant-based option, tofu is a great choice. Just make sure to press the tofu to remove excess water before using it. Another quick fix is to use canned chicken for ease. It saves time and still makes a tasty salad.

Dietary Modifications

If you need gluten-free options, choose gluten-free wraps instead of regular tortillas. There are many brands that offer great alternatives. For a vegan option, you can swap Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt. Look for one that has a creamy texture and mild flavor. This keeps the wrap tasty without any animal products.

Flavor Adjustments

You can change the nuts in this recipe. Try walnuts or almonds for a different crunch. Adding fruits like diced apples or grapes can bring a nice sweetness. You can also adjust the sweetness of the salad. Use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey. These small changes can make your wraps feel fresh and new each time!

Storage Info

Best Storage Practices

To keep your Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Wraps fresh, store them in the fridge. Wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. This helps prevent them from drying out. If you’re using whole wheat tortillas, consider wrapping them in foil for extra protection. Use parchment paper between layers if you stack them in a container.

Shelf Life

These wraps last about three days in the fridge. Always check for signs of spoilage before eating. If you see any mold or if the wraps smell off, it’s best to discard them. Fresh ingredients ensure the best taste, so use them quickly!

Freezing Options

You can freeze the chicken salad mix but not the wraps. To freeze, place the chicken salad in a freezer-safe container. Leave space for expansion as it freezes. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Once thawed, serve it fresh in new wraps.

FAQs

Can I make Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Wraps ahead of time?

Yes, you can make these wraps ahead of time. The chicken salad stays fresh for about one hour in the fridge. If you want to keep the wraps crisp, store the filling and wraps separately. This way, you can enjoy them fresh when you are ready to eat.

What can I substitute for Greek yogurt in this recipe?

If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can use sour cream or plain yogurt. Both options give a creamy texture. If you want a dairy-free choice, try using mashed avocado or a plant-based yogurt.

How can I make this recipe lower in calories?

To lower the calories, use less Greek yogurt or opt for a low-fat version. You can also reduce the amount of pecans and honey. Using lettuce wraps instead of tortillas cuts calories, too.

What type of lettuce works best for wraps?

Romaine and butter lettuce work best for wraps. They are strong and hold the filling well. You can also use collard greens for a different flavor and texture.

Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked?

Using fresh chicken is possible, but it needs to be cooked first. You can poach, grill, or bake the chicken before shredding it for the salad. Make sure the chicken is fully cooked to a safe temperature of 165°F.

In this blog post, we explored how to make delicious Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Wraps. We covered the key ingredients, prepared the chicken salad, and whipped up a tasty yogurt dressing. We also shared tips for serving and storing your wraps, plus creative variations and FAQs.

These wraps are simple to make and are sure to impress. With a few adjustments, you can make them your own. Enjoy experimenting with flavors while keeping your meals fresh and health

- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded - 1/2 cup dried cranberries - 1/2 cup pecans, coarsely chopped - 1/2 cup celery, finely diced - 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced - 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (plain) These main ingredients create a lovely mix of flavors. The shredded chicken gives protein and texture. Dried cranberries add sweetness, while pecans give a nice crunch. Celery and red onion add freshness and a bit of bite. The Greek yogurt brings creaminess and tanginess, tying everything together. - 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard - 1 tablespoon honey - 4 large lettuce leaves (such as romaine or butter) or whole wheat tortillas - Fresh spinach or mixed greens for garnish You can add Dijon mustard and honey for extra flavor. Lettuce leaves or whole wheat tortillas serve as the wrap. Fresh spinach or mixed greens make a pretty garnish and add a pop of color. - Mixing bowls - Whisk - Serving platter Using mixing bowls helps to combine all your ingredients well. A whisk is great for mixing the yogurt dressing until smooth. A serving platter makes your wraps look nice when serving. {{ingredient_image_2}} - In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of shredded chicken, 1/2 cup of dried cranberries, 1/2 cup of coarsely chopped pecans, 1/2 cup of finely diced celery, and 1/4 cup of finely diced red onion. - Mix these ingredients gently until they are well combined. You want everything to be evenly distributed for the best flavor in each bite. - In a smaller bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of plain Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon of honey, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. - Make sure the dressing is smooth and creamy. This dressing will bring all the flavors together. - Lay out 4 large lettuce leaves or warm whole wheat tortillas on a clean surface. If you use tortillas, warming them in a pan for a minute makes them easier to wrap. - Scoop a generous amount of the chicken salad mixture onto the center of each lettuce leaf or tortilla. - Roll or fold the wraps securely. For lettuce wraps, tuck in the sides and roll from the bottom. For tortillas, roll tightly and cut them in half for serving. - Serve these wraps right away for the best taste. If you need to, refrigerate them for up to one hour to let the flavors blend. To make your platter pop, arrange the wraps nicely on a large plate. Nestle them in fresh spinach or mixed greens for a lovely green touch. For a sweet finish, drizzle a little honey over the top. This adds taste and looks great. You can pair your wraps with a light soup or fresh fruit. A glass of iced tea or lemonade works well too. Make sure your chicken is shredded well. Use two forks or your hands to get nice, small pieces. This helps mix everything evenly in the salad. If you choose tortillas, warm them in a dry skillet for one to two minutes. This makes them soft and easy to roll without breaking. Want more flavor? You can add chopped herbs like parsley or dill. A sprinkle of black pepper or a dash of cayenne can give it a kick. If you want a different dressing, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of apple cider vinegar. These changes can make your chicken salad even tastier. Pro Tips Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker prep, consider using store-bought rotisserie chicken. It's flavorful and saves time on cooking. Customize Your Nuts: If you prefer a different nut, feel free to substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a unique twist. Flavor Enhancements: Add a sprinkle of garlic powder or a dash of cayenne pepper to the yogurt dressing for an extra kick of flavor. Chill for Best Results: Allow the chicken salad to chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld beautifully. {{image_4}} You can switch out the chicken in this recipe for turkey or tofu. Turkey gives a similar taste and works well in wraps. If you prefer a plant-based option, tofu is a great choice. Just make sure to press the tofu to remove excess water before using it. Another quick fix is to use canned chicken for ease. It saves time and still makes a tasty salad. If you need gluten-free options, choose gluten-free wraps instead of regular tortillas. There are many brands that offer great alternatives. For a vegan option, you can swap Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt. Look for one that has a creamy texture and mild flavor. This keeps the wrap tasty without any animal products. You can change the nuts in this recipe. Try walnuts or almonds for a different crunch. Adding fruits like diced apples or grapes can bring a nice sweetness. You can also adjust the sweetness of the salad. Use maple syrup or agave nectar instead of honey. These small changes can make your wraps feel fresh and new each time! To keep your Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Wraps fresh, store them in the fridge. Wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. This helps prevent them from drying out. If you're using whole wheat tortillas, consider wrapping them in foil for extra protection. Use parchment paper between layers if you stack them in a container. These wraps last about three days in the fridge. Always check for signs of spoilage before eating. If you see any mold or if the wraps smell off, it’s best to discard them. Fresh ingredients ensure the best taste, so use them quickly! You can freeze the chicken salad mix but not the wraps. To freeze, place the chicken salad in a freezer-safe container. Leave space for expansion as it freezes. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Once thawed, serve it fresh in new wraps. Yes, you can make these wraps ahead of time. The chicken salad stays fresh for about one hour in the fridge. If you want to keep the wraps crisp, store the filling and wraps separately. This way, you can enjoy them fresh when you are ready to eat. If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can use sour cream or plain yogurt. Both options give a creamy texture. If you want a dairy-free choice, try using mashed avocado or a plant-based yogurt. To lower the calories, use less Greek yogurt or opt for a low-fat version. You can also reduce the amount of pecans and honey. Using lettuce wraps instead of tortillas cuts calories, too. Romaine and butter lettuce work best for wraps. They are strong and hold the filling well. You can also use collard greens for a different flavor and texture. Using fresh chicken is possible, but it needs to be cooked first. You can poach, grill, or bake the chicken before shredding it for the salad. Make sure the chicken is fully cooked to a safe temperature of 165°F. In this blog post, we explored how to make delicious Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Wraps. We covered the key ingredients, prepared the chicken salad, and whipped up a tasty yogurt dressing. We also shared tips for serving and storing your wraps, plus creative variations and FAQs. These wraps are simple to make and are sure to impress. With a few adjustments, you can make them your own. Enjoy experimenting with flavors while keeping your meals fresh and healthy.

Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Wraps

A delicious and colorful chicken salad wrapped in lettuce or tortillas, perfect for a light meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/2 cup pecans, coarsely chopped
  • 1/2 cup celery, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (plain)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • to taste Salt and black pepper
  • 4 large lettuce leaves (such as romaine or butter) or whole wheat tortillas
  • for garnish Fresh spinach or mixed greens

Instructions
 

  • In a spacious mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken, dried cranberries, coarsely chopped pecans, finely diced celery, and red onion. Gently mix these ingredients together until they are well combined.
  • In a separate small bowl, add the Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and black pepper. Whisk these ingredients together vigorously until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  • Pour the yogurt dressing over the chicken and other mixed ingredients. Stir well to ensure that every piece is coated with the dressing, creating a deliciously creamy mixture.
  • Prepare your serving medium by laying out the fresh lettuce leaves or whole wheat tortillas flat. If you opt for tortillas, warming them in a dry skillet for a minute or two can help make them more pliable for wrapping.
  • Take a generous scoop of the chicken salad mixture and place it onto the center of each lettuce leaf or tortilla, ensuring to leave enough space at the edges for folding or rolling.
  • For lettuce wraps, carefully fold the sides in and roll from the bottom to securely encase the filling, securing with a toothpick if needed. For tortillas, roll each tightly and slice them in half diagonally for serving.
  • Serve these flavorful wraps immediately for the best experience, or refrigerate them for up to one hour to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Notes

Arrange the wraps beautifully on a platter, nestling them among fresh spinach or mixed greens for a vibrant contrast. For an elegant touch, drizzle a small amount of honey over the top before serving.
Keyword chicken salad, healthy, wraps

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