Lizzy’s Famous Pecan Chicken Salad – A Classic with a Nutty Twist

When it comes to hearty yet refreshing meals, chicken salad is always a winner. But Lizzy’s Famous Pecan Chicken Salad takes the beloved dish to a whole new level. With its creamy texture, bursts of crunch, and perfectly balanced flavors, it’s a recipe that feels gourmet while still being easy to prepare. The magic lies in the toasted pecans, tender chicken, and a dressing that ties everything together beautifully.

Whether served as a sandwich filling, on a crisp bed of lettuce, or scooped onto crackers for a light snack, this chicken salad has a way of making any occasion special. Here’s how you can make it step by step.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed, preferably from roasted or poached chicken breasts)
1 cup pecans, toasted and chopped
½ cup celery, finely diced
½ cup red grapes or dried cranberries, halved (for a touch of sweetness)
¼ cup green onions, sliced thinly
½ cup mayonnaise (or a mix of mayo and Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey (optional, for balance)
Juice of half a lemon
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start with cooked chicken that has cooled to room temperature.
If using leftover rotisserie chicken, shred it with a fork for a rustic texture.
For freshly cooked chicken, poach two chicken breasts in lightly salted water until tender, then cube them.

Tip: Slightly chilled chicken makes it easier to mix with the dressing.