Cranberry Chicken Salad on Apple Slices

Cranberry Chicken Salad on Apple Slices

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Need a quick, refreshing dish for lunch or a party? Cranberry Chicken Salad on Apple Slices is a Healthy No-Cook Appetizer that swaps bread for crisp apple rounds, delivering a gluten-free, low-carb bite bursting with flavor. With creamy chicken salad, chewy cranberries, and crunchy nuts, this no-cook dish is ready in 15 minutes. Try this Cranberry Chicken Salad on Apple Slices for a wholesome, crowd-pleasing treat!

Why You’ll Love Cranberry Chicken Salad on Apple Slices

I love this Cranberry Chicken Salad on Apple Slices because it’s a Healthy No-Cook Appetizer that’s both easy and delicious. Ready in under 15 minutes, it combines sweet apples, tangy cranberries, and creamy dressing for a perfect balance of textures and flavors. This Healthy No-Cook Appetizer is ideal for quick lunches, snacks, or party platters, and it’s naturally gluten-free!

Ingredients for Cranberry Chicken Salad on Apple Slices

Here’s what you’ll need for Cranberry Chicken Salad on Apple Slices (serves 4–6):

  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced (about 1 lb)
  • ⅓ cup dried cranberries
  • ¼ cup chopped celery
  • ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
  • ⅓ cup mayonnaise or plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 2 large apples (Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji), sliced into ¼-inch rounds

Equipment

  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spoon for scooping

Ingredient Tips

  • Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or bake chicken at 375°F for 30 minutes.
  • Apples: Choose sweet-crisp varieties like Honeycrisp or Gala; slice just before serving to prevent browning.
  • Cranberries: Dried cranberries add chewiness; chop for even distribution.
  • Nuts: Pecans or walnuts add crunch; sunflower seeds work for nut-free diets.
  • Dressing: Greek yogurt offers a lighter, protein-packed option; use half mayo for richness.

Directions for Cranberry Chicken Salad on Apple Slices

Let’s make this Cranberry Chicken Salad on Apple Slices!

Mix the Chicken Salad

In a medium bowl, I combine 2 cups shredded chicken, ⅓ cup dried cranberries, ¼ cup chopped celery, and ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts.

Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, I mix ⅓ cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt with 1 tbsp lemon juice, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper until smooth.

Combine Salad and Dressing

I pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until evenly coated, creating a creamy, tangy salad.

Slice the Apples

I slice 2 large apples into ¼-inch thick rounds, removing the core to create a flat surface. I toss with a splash of lemon juice if not serving immediately to prevent browning.

Assemble and Serve

I spoon a generous portion of chicken salad onto each apple slice. I serve immediately for maximum crispness or chill the salad and assemble just before serving.

Nutrition

  • Prep Time: 10–15 minutes
  • Cook Time: None
  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Servings: 4–6
  • Calories: ~220 kcal per serving
  • Macros per Serving: 15g carbs, 20g protein, 12g fat, 3g fiber

Variations for Cranberry Chicken Salad on Apple Slices

Try these twists on Cranberry Chicken Salad on Apple Slices:

  • Nut-Free: Swap nuts for sunflower seeds for a nut-free Healthy No-Cook Appetizer.
  • Sweet and Spicy: Add ¼ tsp curry powder or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for a bold Healthy No-Cook Appetizer.
  • Fruit Swap: Use pear slices or lettuce cups instead of apples for variety.
  • Creamy Boost: Mix half mayo and half Greek yogurt for extra richness.
  • Herb Infusion: Stir in 1 tbsp chopped parsley or dill for a fresh flavor.

Serving Ideas:

  • Pair with Food and Tips’ Buffalo Chicken Flatbread for a vibrant party spread.
  • Serve with a light cucumber salad to complement the Healthy No-Cook Appetizer.
  • Offer at brunches, picnics, or holiday gatherings for a refreshing bite.

Storage

I store the chicken salad (without apples) in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness. I slice apples just before serving to prevent browning, or toss with lemon juice if prepping early. This dish is best served cold or at room temperature and should not be reheated.

Serving Tips

  • Presentation: Arrange apple slices on a platter with salad scooped neatly for a stunning look.
  • Garnish: Sprinkle extra cranberries or chopped herbs for color and flair.
  • Pairing: Enjoy with iced tea or sparkling water to enhance the Healthy No-Cook Appetizer.
  • Portion Size: About 2–3 apple slices with salad per person for a light serving.
  • Occasions: Perfect for lunches, snacks, or party appetizers.

FAQs About Cranberry Chicken Salad on Apple Slices

Here are some frequently asked questions about Cranberry Chicken Salad on Apple Slices:

Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is perfect and saves time.

Will the apples brown?
Yes, unless you coat them in lemon juice or slice them right before serving.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can make the chicken salad in advance and chill it. Slice apples and assemble right before serving.

What are the best apples for this recipe?
Sweet-crisp varieties like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji work best for contrast.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free as long as all added ingredients are too.

What can I use instead of nuts?
Sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds are good nut-free options.

Can I add other ingredients?
Absolutely—try grapes, scallions, or bell pepper for added flavor and crunch.

How should I serve it at a party?
Arrange on a platter and serve immediately, or offer the salad in a bowl with apple slices on the side.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use mayonnaise only or a dairy-free yogurt alternative.

Is this kid-friendly?
Yes—kids enjoy the sweet apples and the mild, creamy chicken salad.

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Cranberry Chicken Salad on Apple Slices

Conclusion

This Cranberry Chicken Salad on Apple Slices is a fresh, wholesome dish that transforms traditional chicken salad into a gluten-free, low-carb delight. With crisp apples, tangy cranberries, and creamy dressing, this Cranberry Chicken Salad on Apple Slices is a Healthy No-Cook Appetizer perfect for any occasion. Make it today and savor a vibrant, delicious favorite!

Cranberry Chicken Salad on Apple Slices

Cranberry Chicken Salad on Apple Slices

Light, refreshing chicken salad served atop crisp apple slices—perfect for a healthy lunch, snack, or elegant appetizer.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course Salad
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 220 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked chicken rotisserie or poached, diced or shredded
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for lighter option
  • 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt optional, for creaminess
  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries
  • 1/4 cup chopped celery
  • 2 tbsp chopped green onions or red onion
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tsp lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 large apple Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji, thinly sliced
  • Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or walnuts

Instructions
 

  • In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise (and Greek yogurt, if using), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  • Fold in the cooked chicken, dried cranberries, celery, and green onion until evenly coated.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning—add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired.
  • Arrange the apple slices on a platter or individual plates, overlapping slightly.
  • Top each slice (or clusters of slices) with spoonfuls of the cranberry chicken salad.
  • Garnish with chopped parsley or walnuts, if using.
  • Serve immediately for best texture—if prepping ahead, toss apple slices with a bit of lemon juice to prevent browning and store chicken salad separately until ready to assemble.

Notes

  • Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise to reduce fat and calories.
  • Customize with add-ins like chopped pecans, sliced grapes, or sunflower seeds.
  • Choose your favorite apple variety for sweetness or tartness balance.
  • Leftover chicken salad keeps for up to 3 days refrigerated (store apples separately).

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Keyword Low Fat

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