Apple Pecan Chicken Salad
A tasty, healthy lunch salad recipe that’s full of crunch and flavor!
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If you’re anything like me, lunch needs to be quick, delicious, and—most importantly—something I actually look forward to eating. This apple pecan chicken salad totally checks all those boxes. It’s creamy, crunchy, slightly sweet, and packed with protein. Whether you’re piling it into a wrap, spooning it over greens, or just eating it straight from the bowl, this salad is a lunchtime win. It reminds me a lot of the Apple Pecan Chicken Salad that you can get from Wendy’s—only this homemade version is way fresher and just as satisfying.
I first threw this easy apple pecan chicken salad together a month ago when I had leftover chicken in the fridge and zero motivation to make anything complicated. I chopped up an apple, tossed in some toasted pecans, stirred in a quick dressing, and instantly knew this was going into the regular rotation. My girls actually asked for more – total lunchtime magic.
What is Apple Pecan Chicken Salad?
Apple pecan chicken salad is a refreshing mix of tender chicken, crunchy apples, crisp celery, toasted pecans, and a creamy, tangy dressing. It’s a little bit sweet, a little bit savory, and super satisfying. Think of it like the healthier cousin of chicken salad, but with way more texture and flavor.
What makes this lunch salad recipe nutritious?
This healthy apple pecan chicken salad is full of protein from the chicken, healthy fats from the pecans, and fiber from the apples and celery. Using a small amount of mayo (or swapping in Greek yogurt if you like) keeps it light while still creamy. It’s a balanced lunch that actually keeps you full—and there’s no crash an hour later like you get from drive-thru meals. The mix of fresh, whole ingredients is what makes this one of the best apple pecan chicken salad recipes around.
RELATED: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this Avocado Chicken Salad is a delicious twist on a classic, featuring creamy avocado instead of mayo. Quick to make and full of flavor, it’s a healthy, satisfying option for lunch or meal prep.
Ingredients you’ll need
Here’s what you’ll need to throw together this apple pecan chicken salad recipe:
For the salad
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 1 large apple, diced (Honeycrisp or Fuji works well)
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/3 cup chopped pecans, toasted if desired
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional)
For the dressing
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Why you’ll love this easy Apple Pecan Chicken Salad recipe
- Perfect for meal prep—it gets better as it chills.
- It’s quick—ready in just 15 minutes.
- You only need one bowl (fewer dishes = happier you).
- Great way to use up leftover or rotisserie chicken.
- It tastes amazing in a sandwich, on a bed of spinach as a salad, or in a wrap.
Step-by-step instructions for making Apple Pecan Chicken Salad
- In a large bowl, mix together the diced chicken, chopped apple, celery, pecans, and cranberries if you’re using them.
- In a small bowl, stir together the mayo, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir everything together until nicely coated.
- Serve right away or pop it in the fridge for 30 minutes to let the flavors mingle.
Make this Chicken Salad with Apples, Pecans and Cranberries, then check out my Classic Waldorf Salad and more of my chicken salad recipe ideas.
Frequently asked questions about this hearty salad recipe
Read on for tips and substitution ideas on how to make this apple salad recipe, such as how to customize this salad, and how to store this salad.
What kind of chicken should I use?
Leftover grilled or roasted chicken works great. Rotisserie chicken is another easy option.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yep! Just double-check your mayo label or use a dairy-free alternative.
What’s the best apple to use?
like Honeycrisp or Fuji for that juicy, sweet crunch.
How many calories are in a serving of apple pecan chicken salad ?
Roughly 350–400 calories per serving depending on the mayo and portion size. Using light mayo or Greek yogurt can lower the count a bit.
Is this like the Wendy’s apple pecan chicken salad recipe?
It’s got a similar vibe—creamy, sweet, and savory—but it’s lacks the pomegranate vinaigrette and it’s more of a classic chicken salad style, and you can customize it however you like.
How do I store leftovers of this Apple Pecan Chicken Salad?
Store any leftover apple pecan salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just give it a stir before serving again, as the dressing can settle a bit.
This apple pecan chicken salad recipe is one of those easy meals that makes life feel a little more put together. It’s tasty, healthy, and fun to make ahead for the week. Enjoy it straight from the bowl, on a bed of baby spinach, or tucked into a soft wrap for a quick and satisfying lunch. Happy lunching!
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Apple Pecan Chicken Salad Recipe
Ingredients
For the salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast (diced)
- 1 large apple (diced (Honeycrisp or Fuji works well))
- 1/2 cup celery (finely chopped)
- 1/3 cup chopped pecans (toasted if desired)
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries (optional)
For the dressing:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, apple, celery, pecans, and cranberries if using.2 cups cooked chicken breast, 1 large apple, 1/2 cup celery, 1/3 cup chopped pecans, 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.1/3 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, Salt and pepper
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes for the flavors to blend.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
Disclosure
Recipes and photos are for your personal enjoyment only — please share the love by linking, not copying!Other Chicken Salad recipes to try
- Need an easy-to-make nutritious meal? This Mandarin Chicken Pasta Salad is perfect – filled with asian flavors and protein-packed chicken to keep you full.
- This vibrant Mexican Grilled Chicken Salad combines juicy marinated chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, sweet corn, black beans, cherry tomatoes, and red onion, all tossed in a creamy honey lime dressing for a fresh and flavorful meal.
- Packed with wholesome ingredients, this Avocado Chicken Salad is a delicious twist on a classic, featuring creamy avocado instead of mayo. Quick to make and full of flavor, it’s a healthy, satisfying option for lunch or meal prep.
