Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing

🍗🥗 Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing 🍇🌰

A sweet and savory salad packed with tender chicken, crunchy pecans, and juicy cranberries—all topped with creamy poppy seed dressing! 💫

Ingredients:

* 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

* Salt and pepper to taste

* 1 tbsp olive oil

* 6 cups mixed greens (like romaine, spinach, or spring mix)

* ½ cup dried cranberries

* ½ cup whole pecans (toasted for extra crunch)

* ¼ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese (optional)

**For the Poppy Seed Dressing:**

* ½ cup mayonnaise

* 2 tbsp white vinegar

* 2 tbsp sugar or honey

* 1 tbsp poppy seeds

* 1 tbsp milk (to thin if needed)

* Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook chicken for 6–7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Let cool, then slice.

2. Toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring often. Let cool.

3. In a bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients until smooth.

4. On a large serving platter or bowl, arrange greens, then top with sliced chicken, cranberries, pecans, and cheese if using.

5. Drizzle generously with poppy seed dressing and serve immediately.

Pro Tip:

This salad is just as tasty cold—perfect for meal prep or picnics! Add apple slices or mandarin oranges for a fruity twist! 🍊🍏