Cranberry walnut chicken salad is a delicious, gluten free meal. Chunks of breast meat are tossed with plump, dried cranberries, tart and crunchy Granny Smith apples, walnuts, and fresh rosemary.

If you like chicken salad, you’ll love this cranberry walnut chicken salad!
I love chicken salad. You can tell by the number of recipes I have on my website! The one I’m sharing today is one of my favorites. It’s based on a similar version that was once available at Trader Joe’s, in their pre-packaged foods section.

I know that cranberries are traditionally a fall fruit, but I keep a large bag of dried cranberries on hand for a quick and easy snack. Spencer loves to grab a handful in place of something sweet late at night. Just a few simple ingredients, some salt and pepper and a dash of dry mustard is all you need.This cranberry walnut chicken salad is also a great use for leftover rotisserie chicken.
Sometimes I buy two, and use one for chicken salad. This chicken salad makes a nice, light luncheon for a bridal or baby shower. Serve it on a bed of lettuce or between your favorite bread or baguette.
Looking for more chicken salad recipes?
Try this Chicken Salad with Apricot and Almonds, or the Curried Coronation Chicken Salad, served to the Queen on her Coronation.

- 3 cups of diced cooked chicken
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ⅓ cup dried cranberries
- 1 granny smith apple diced
- 2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh rosemary
- 1 tsp. Coleman's dried mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste.
- ¾ cup chopped walnuts
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Mix all ingredients together. Season to taste.
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Chill. Serve as a sandwich filing or on a bed of lettuce.

marcie says
I love chicken salad too, and dried cranberries are something I use year round — I love the color and that tart, sweet flavor! And I love the addition of the apples and rosemary too – delicious!
Cynthia says
Thank you Marcie!
Christina | Christina's Cucina says
I rarely make chicken salad, so maybe I should start! This one looks great with so much flavor, low on the mayo and so nutritious, too! Great recipe for summer!
Cynthia says
Thank you Christina!
allie says
I love this variation on a traditional chicken salad, Cynthia! Looks delicious. I love the cranberries and apples. I have plenty of rosemary in my herb pots. Never can have too many chicken salad recipes, it’s the perfect light dish in the heat!
Jane Couric says
This looks yummy and delicious, i can’t wait to try it out and see how it comes out.
Cynthia says
Let me know you like it Jane!
Jenny | Honey and Birch says
I love chicken salad – this version sounds delicious!
Cynthia says
Thank you Jenny!
Rachel @ Baked by Rachel says
Love the apples in there! Such a great lunch salad!
Shashi at RunninSrilankan says
This is such a delightful twist on chicken salad! A must try for sure!
Marye says
This looks perfect! I definitely need to try it soon.
Jocelyn @BruCrew Life says
I love easy chicken salad recipes like this one. Nuts and berries always add such a refreshing taste to it!!