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Lizzy’s Famous Pecan Chicken Salad

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Lizzy’s Famous Pecan Chicken Salad: A Crowd-Pleasing Delight

Looking for the ultimate dish to wow a large group or add flair to a potluck? Lizzy’s Famous Pecan Chicken Salad is the perfect recipe. This creamy, tangy, and slightly crunchy chicken salad combines hearty chicken, fresh fruits, crisp veggies, and a deliciously seasoned dressing. It’s versatile enough for sandwiches, wraps, or as a standalone dish, and it’s a guaranteed hit for picnics, weddings, or family gatherings.

This recipe makes a generous amount to feed 25–30 people, but it can easily be halved for smaller occasions. Let’s dive into how to prepare this timeless classic!

Ingredients for Lizzy’s Famous Pecan Chicken Salad

Main Salad Ingredients

  • 1 (50 oz) can cooked chicken breast or 3 lbs cooked and shredded chicken breasts
  • 4 large Gala apples, cored and diced
  • 3 tablespoons real lemon juice
  • 2 cups black or red seedless grapes, quartered
  • 3 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 bunch spring onions, chopped fine
  • 2 (2 oz) bags chopped pecans (optional)

Sauce Ingredients

  • 3 cups Miracle Whip
  • 3 tablespoons dill weed
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • 1 ½ tablespoons real lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Lizzy’s Famous Pecan Chicken Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. If using canned chicken, drain it thoroughly.
  2. For fresh chicken, boil 3 lbs of chicken breasts until cooked through, then shred.

Step 2: Prepare the Fruits and Vegetables

  1. Grapes: Wash and dry. Quarter them to ensure smaller, bite-sized pieces.
  2. Apples: Wash, core, and dice into large chunks. Drizzle with lemon juice to prevent browning.
  3. Spring Onions: Wash, dry, and finely chop. Spring onions add a fresher taste, but yellow or white onions can substitute if needed.
  4. Celery: Wash and dice into small pieces. Remove the ends of the stalks for a cleaner cut.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together:
  • 3 cups Miracle Whip
  • 3 tablespoons dill weed
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • 1 ½ tablespoons lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste.
  1. Mix until smooth and set aside.

Step 4: Combine the Salad

  1. In a large bowl, toss the prepared grapes, apples, spring onions, and celery until evenly distributed.
  2. Add the shredded chicken and mix again.

Step 5: Add the Dressing

  1. Fold the prepared dressing into the chicken mixture, ensuring everything is coated evenly.
  2. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
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Step 6: Add the Pecans (Optional)

  1. Stir in the chopped pecans for added crunch and a nutty flavor.

Step 7: Chill and Serve

  1. Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
  2. Serve with wheatberry bread, wraps, or on its own with chips or potato salad.

Tips for Making Lizzy’s Famous Pecan Chicken Salad

  1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and produce will elevate the salad’s overall flavor.
  2. Customize the Recipe:
  • For a sweeter flavor, use honey instead of sugar in the dressing.
  • Add dried cranberries for a festive twist.
  1. Make It Ahead: Preparing the salad a day before serving enhances the flavor.
  2. Watch for Freshness: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Discard the salad if it becomes watery.

FAQs About Lizzy’s Famous Pecan Chicken Salad

1. Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Simply shred the meat and proceed with the recipe.

2. What Other Nuts Can I Use Instead of Pecans?

Walnuts or almonds make excellent substitutes if pecans aren’t available. You can also skip the nuts altogether if you have allergies.

3. Is Miracle Whip Necessary?

Miracle Whip gives the dressing a tangy flavor. However, you can substitute it with mayonnaise for a milder taste.

4. Can I Add Other Ingredients?

Absolutely! Consider adding diced red peppers, hard-boiled eggs, or even shredded cheese for extra flavor and texture.

5. How Do I Serve This Chicken Salad?

Serve it as a sandwich filling, in lettuce wraps, or alongside crackers and fresh veggies for dipping.

6. Can I Freeze Chicken Salad?

Unfortunately, this recipe doesn’t freeze well due to the dressing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of preparation.

Why This Recipe is a Crowd Favorite

Lizzy’s Famous Pecan Chicken Salad is beloved for its balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. The combination of juicy apples, crunchy celery, sweet grapes, and creamy dressing creates a refreshing yet hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its versatility and ability to feed a crowd, this recipe is a must-have for your recipe collection!

Try it at your next gathering, and watch it become the star of the show!

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