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#### **For the Salad:**
1. **Cooked Chicken (2-3 cups)**: You can use any cooked chicken for this salad—grilled, roasted, or even leftover chicken from a previous meal works well. Shredded or diced chicken breast is the most common option, but thighs can also be used for a juicier result.
2. **Dried Cranberries (1 cup)**: Dried cranberries add a delightful sweetness and slight tartness to the salad. They’re also packed with nutrients like antioxidants and fiber. Make sure to select unsweetened or lightly sweetened cranberries to maintain a balanced flavor.
3. **Pecans (½ cup)**: Toasted pecans add crunch, a rich nutty flavor, and healthy fats. Roasting them enhances their flavor and gives them a more aromatic quality. If you prefer, you can swap the pecans for walnuts or almonds, but pecans offer a distinct richness that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
4. **Celery (2 stalks)**: Celery provides a crisp, refreshing crunch that balances out the creaminess of the dressing and the tenderness of the chicken. It also adds a bit of freshness to the salad.
5. **Red Onion (1 small)**: A small red onion adds a mild sharpness to the salad. You can adjust the amount based on your preference, but red onion complements the sweetness of the cranberries and the richness of the pecans well.
6. **Apple (1 medium)**: Adding a diced apple to the salad gives it a sweet, crisp texture that contrasts nicely with the savory and creamy ingredients. Opt for a tart variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a balance of sweetness and acidity.
#### **For the Dressing:**
1. **Mayonnaise (½ cup)**: The base of the dressing is typically mayonnaise, which gives the salad a creamy texture. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute the mayo with Greek yogurt for a tangy, protein-packed alternative.
2. **Dijon Mustard (1 tablespoon)**: Dijon mustard adds a subtle tanginess and a touch of heat to the dressing, enhancing the overall flavor of the salad.
3. **Honey (1 tablespoon)**: Honey adds a bit of sweetness to the dressing, helping to balance the tartness of the cranberries and the savoriness of the chicken. You can adjust the amount based on your sweetness preference.
4. **Apple Cider Vinegar (1 tablespoon)**: A dash of apple cider vinegar helps to bring acidity to the dressing, balancing out the richness of the mayo and adding a layer of complexity.
5. **Salt and Pepper (to taste)**: Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed to ensure the flavors are well balanced.
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