Apple Pecan Chicken Salad with Honey Dijon brings together juicy apples, buttery pecans, and tender chicken in a creamy, tangy dressing. The honey Dijon adds bold flavor with just the right touch of sweetness. Every bite feels fresh, crisp, and satisfying. This salad works beautifully for sandwiches, wraps, or light lunches.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Sweet and savory flavor balance
• Creamy with crisp apple crunch
• Perfect for meal prep
• Great for sandwiches or lettuce wraps
• Crowd-pleasing texture

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Preparation and Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

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Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
• ¾ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 medium apple, finely diced
• ½ cup pecans, toasted and chopped
• ½ cup celery, finely diced
• 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional swaps:

• Use Greek yogurt for half the mayo
• Add dried cranberries for extra sweetness
• Substitute walnuts for pecans

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook chicken until fully done and let it cool.
2. Dice the chicken into small, even pieces.
3. In a large bowl, whisk mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, and lemon juice.
4. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Fold in diced chicken.
6. Add apple, toasted pecans, celery, and red onion.
7. Mix gently until evenly coated.
8. Chill for 30 minutes before serving.

Apple Pecan Chicken Salad with Honey Dijon develops deeper flavor after resting in the refrigerator.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve on croissants for a bakery-style sandwich.
Spoon into butter lettuce cups.
Pair with crackers for entertaining.
Top with extra pecans before serving.

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Quick Tips or Variations

• Toast pecans for stronger flavor.
• Use a crisp apple like Honeycrisp or Fuji.
• Add a pinch of paprika for subtle warmth.

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FAQ Section

What apples are best for chicken salad?

Crisp varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala work best in Apple Pecan Chicken Salad with Honey Dijon.

Can I make apple pecan chicken salad ahead of time?

Yes. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Should pecans be toasted for chicken salad?

Yes. Toasted pecans add deeper flavor and better crunch.

What bread goes best with apple pecan chicken salad?

Croissants, brioche buns, or soft sandwich bread pair beautifully.

Apple Pecan Chicken Salad with Honey Dijon delivers creamy texture, sweet crunch, and bold flavor in every bite. Make it once, and it will become a favorite for gatherings and easy lunches.

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