Deli-Style Chicken Salad

---

Quick Benefits

Deli-Style Chicken Salad is a nutritious, protein-packed dish that’s both delicious and incredibly versatile. It can be prepared ahead of time, making it ideal for meal prep, potlucks, or quick lunches. This salad is full of texture and flavor from crunchy celery, sweet dried fruits, toasted pecans, and creamy dressing—providing a wholesome and satisfying bite in every forkful.

---

Essential Ingredients

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup Miracle Whip
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp seasoning salt
• 4 cups cooked chicken, cubed or shredded
• 1 cup dried cranberries, dried cherries, or grape halves
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 3/4 cup chopped green pepper or apple
• 1 cup toasted pecans, chopped
• Ground black pepper, to taste

---

Preparation Steps

1. In a large bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Miracle Whip, paprika, and seasoning salt until creamy and smooth.
2. Add in the cooked chicken, dried fruits, celery, green onions, green pepper or apple, and toasted pecans.
3. Gently toss until all ingredients are well-coated with the dressing.
4. Season with black pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably 4–6 hours, to let flavors develop.
6. Stir before serving and adjust seasoning if necessary.

---

Health Benefits

• High in Protein: Thanks to the chicken and nuts, this dish supports muscle repair and energy.
• Heart-Healthy Fats: Pecans and Miracle Whip offer unsaturated fats, which are good for heart health.
• Fiber & Antioxidants: The dried fruits and vegetables provide dietary fiber and a boost of antioxidants.
• Low in Sugar: Naturally low in sugar (if dried fruits are unsweetened), making it suitable for most diets.

---

Serving Suggestions

• Spoon onto a bed of fresh greens for a light, refreshing salad.
• Use as a sandwich filling in croissants, wraps, or pita bread.
• Stuff into hollowed-out tomatoes or avocados for a fun presentation.
• Pair with whole-grain crackers or crusty bread for a satisfying lunch.
• Serve as part of a charcuterie-style platter with sliced fruits and nuts.

---

Creative Variations

• Greek-style twist: Use plain Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise and add kalamata olives and feta.
• Spicy version: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Tropical flair: Use pineapple chunks or mango instead of grapes.
• Nut-free: Skip the pecans and add sunflower seeds for crunch.

---

Storage Tips

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Best enjoyed within 3–4 days for optimal freshness.
• Stir before serving as the dressing may settle or separate slightly.

---

Pro Tips

• Toast the pecans in a dry skillet for a few minutes to enhance their flavor.
• Shred rotisserie chicken for convenience and added flavor.
• Chop everything uniformly for the best texture in every bite.
• Letting it chill overnight intensifies the flavor.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! It actually tastes better after a few hours of chilling.

Q: What’s a good substitute for Miracle Whip?
A: You can simply use more mayo, or add a little bit of vinegar and sugar to replicate the tang.

Q: Can I freeze chicken salad?
A: It’s not recommended. Mayonnaise-based dressings tend to separate after freezing.

Q: Is this recipe keto-friendly?
A: It can be! Just omit the dried fruits and use full-fat mayo.

---

Let me know if you’d like a printable version or a visual for social media!

Print