The first bite of these Crispy Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Wonton Cups transports me to sun-drenched picnics and carefree gatherings with friends. The delightful crunch of the golden wonton shells cradling a creamy, tangy chicken salad is a culinary hug in each bite. As I prepared these mouthwatering cups for a recent get-together, I marveled at how an elegant dish could come together in just 25 minutes. This recipe is a happy marriage of flavors, where the sweet pop of dried cranberries meets the nutty crunch of pecans, all brought together by a light Greek yogurt dressing.
Perfect for those longing for a satisfying yet gourmet touch to their weeknight meals—or anyone simply tired of the fast-food cycle—these wonton cups are not only visually appealing but also unbelievably easy to prepare. Gather your loved ones for a flavorful feast, or make a batch to enjoy solo; either way, you’re about to elevate your dining experience with these delightful bites! Ready to get started? Let’s dive in!
Why You'll Love This Crispy Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Wonton Cups
- These delicious wonton cups are incredibly easy to prepare, making them a perfect choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- The vibrant combination of flavors—including the sweetness of cranberries and the crunch of pecans—creates a mouthwatering experience that will impress everyone at the table.
- Not only do they taste amazing, but their stunning presentation ensures they’ll be the star of any event, adding a gourmet touch to your spread.
- Plus, these cups are versatile; they can be served as an appetizer, a light meal, or even as a fun snack for kids and adults alike.
Crispy Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Wonton Cups Ingredients
Get ready to create a delightful dish!
For the Wonton Cups
• Wonton wrappers – these serve as the crispy vessel for our flavorful filling.
• Olive oil – brush this on the wrappers for a golden, crispy texture.
For the Chicken Salad
• Cooked chicken – shredded chicken brings protein and substance to the dish.
• Celery – chopped finely for a refreshing crunch that complements the other flavors.
• Dried cranberries – add a touch of sweetness and chewy texture, enhancing the crispy cranberry pecan chicken salad wonton cups.
• Pecans – chopped pecans provide nutty richness and a satisfying crunch.
For the Dressing
• Greek yogurt – this creamy base keeps the salad light yet satisfying.
• Dijon mustard – adds a tangy kick that elevates the overall flavor profile.
• Honey – a drizzle of honey balances the tanginess with a hint of natural sweetness.
• Salt and pepper – season to taste, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
For Garnish
• Fresh parsley – a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness to your presentation.
How to Make Crispy Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Wonton Cups
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is essential for getting those wonton cups perfectly crisp and golden.
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Brush each wonton wrapper lightly with olive oil. Gently press them into a muffin tin to shape cups and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
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Combine in a large bowl the shredded chicken, finely chopped celery, dried cranberries, and chopped pecans, ensuring every ingredient is evenly scattered for a delightful flavor in each bite.
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Whisk together in a separate small bowl the Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth. This creamy dressing will tie your chicken salad together beautifully.
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Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until well coated. This step ensures that each piece of chicken and crunchy ingredient is enveloped in creamy goodness.
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Cool the wonton cups for a moment after baking. Once they are cool, fill each cup generously with the chicken salad mixture, creating a delightful mini meal.
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Garnish with fresh parsley before serving to add a pop of color and freshness, making your presentation irresistible to guests.
Optional: Drizzle with a bit more honey for an extra touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Crispy Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Wonton Cups
Room Temperature: Keep the filled wonton cups at room temperature for up to 1 hour if serving immediately, but they taste best when freshly made.
Fridge: Store any leftover wonton cups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Ensure the chicken salad is fully cooled before sealing to retain freshness.
Freezer: If you want to freeze, store the assembled wonton cups without the filling in the freezer for up to 2 months. Place a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Reheating: To enjoy, reheat the wonton cups in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Fill with the chicken salad just before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Wonton Cups are perfect for meal prep, helping streamline your week while delivering delightful flavor. You can prepare the chicken salad mixture—combining shredded chicken, chopped celery, cranberries, pecans, and dressing—up to 3 days in advance. Just refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. You can also bake the wonton cups up to 24 hours beforehand; keep them in a sealed container at room temperature to preserve their crispiness. When ready to serve, simply fill the cooled wonton cups with the salad and garnish with parsley for an effortlessly elegant meal that saves you time without sacrificing taste!
Crispy Cranberry Pecan Variations
Feel free to explore flavorful twists that can transform your chicken salad wonton cups into a meal that excites your taste buds!
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Vegetarian: Swap chicken for diced tofu or chickpeas for a hearty, plant-based option that’s equally satisfying.
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Nuts About It: Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor and unique texture contrast.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture for an exciting boost of heat.
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Herb-Lover’s Delight: Mix in fresh herbs like dill or cilantro for a refreshing and aromatic layer that complements the other flavors beautifully.
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Creamy Alternative: Use avocado or a vegan mayo instead of Greek yogurt for a rich, creamy dressing that caters to various dietary needs.
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Fruit Frenzy: Incorporate chunks of apple or pear along with the cranberries for extra sweetness and crunch in each delightful bite.
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Sweet Swap: Experiment with maple syrup instead of honey to bring a warm sweetness that pairs beautifully with the pecans.
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Crunchy Upgrade: Top the filled wonton cups with crispy fried onions or shallots for an extra layer of texture and flavor that will wow your guests.
What to Serve with Crispy Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Wonton Cups?
These delightful bites deserve a spot on your table alongside other exciting dishes to create a well-rounded meal.
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Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the wonton cups while adding a refreshing crunch.
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The slight sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes enhances the flavors in the chicken salad, providing a comforting side dish.
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Honey Mustard Brussels Sprouts: These savory sprouts mirror the tangy notes in the dressing, combining a beautiful crunch with earthy flavors.
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Quinoa Pilaf: The nutty taste of quinoa pairs well with the chicken salad cups, adding protein and a satisfying texture without overpowering.
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Sparkling Water: Serve with a splash of lemon or lime for a zesty and refreshing drink that cleanses the palate between bites.
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Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad can bring a burst of natural sweetness that balances the savory elements of the chicken salad cups perfectly.
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Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, this light and zesty treat serves as a delightful palate cleanser after the savory meal.
Crafting the perfect meal around these Crispy Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Wonton Cups is all about balance and contrasting flavors!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For making the Crispy Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Wonton Cups, ensure your oven is fully preheated to achieve the best crispiness on the wonton wrappers.
- When brushing the wrappers with olive oil, use a light hand to prevent them from becoming soggy during baking.
- Mixing the chicken salad thoroughly will ensure each bite is evenly flavored with the creamy dressing and crunchy ingredients.
- Allow the wonton cups to cool for a few minutes after baking to help them maintain their structure when being filled.
Crispy Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Wonton Cups Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right wonton wrappers?
Absolutely! Look for wonton wrappers that are pale and free of dark spots or tears. Fresh wrappers should have a soft, pliable texture. If using frozen, ensure they are thawed properly before brushing with olive oil.
What’s the best way to store leftover wonton cups?
Very simple! Place any leftover filled wonton cups in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. Make sure the chicken salad is completely cool before sealing to keep everything crisp.
Can I freeze the Crispy Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Wonton Cups?
Of course! For the best results, freeze the wonton cups without the filling. Assemble and store them in an airtight container or freezer bags for up to 2 months. Use parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes before adding the filling.
What should I do if my wonton wrappers are not crispy after baking?
If you find that your wonton cups aren’t crisp enough, it might be due to excess oil or not baking long enough. Try brushing lightly with olive oil and ensure they bake for the full 8-10 minutes, keeping an eye on them for a golden color. You can also leave them in the oven for an additional minute or two if they need more crisping.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! If you’re serving this dish to guests with allergies, note that the recipe contains chicken, dairy (Greek yogurt), and nuts (pecans). For a dairy-free alternative, you can substitute the Greek yogurt with a vegan yogurt option. If anyone is allergic to nuts, try using seeds like sunflower seeds instead of pecans for the added crunch. Always check ingredient labels to ensure safety!
How can I make these crispy wonton cups spicy?
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can add a spicy twist! Mix in a small amount of sriracha or cayenne pepper to the Greek yogurt dressing for the chicken salad for that extra kick. Adjust the spice level to your preference, and enjoy the heat in each delightful bite!
Crispy Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad Wonton Cups
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brush each wonton wrapper lightly with olive oil. Press them into a muffin tin to shape cups and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Combine shredded chicken, chopped celery, dried cranberries, and chopped pecans in a large bowl.
- Whisk together Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until well coated.
- Cool the wonton cups for a moment after baking. Fill each cup with the chicken salad mixture.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
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