Lizzy’s Famous Pecan Chicken Salad

 

Lizzy’s Famous Pecan Chicken Salad: A Southern Classic with a Crunchy Twist

Some recipes are passed down, others are shared between friends — but a few become legendary. Lizzy’s Famous Pecan Chicken Salad is one of those rare dishes that earns its reputation the moment someone takes their first bite. Creamy, crunchy, sweet, and savory all at once, this Southern-inspired chicken salad is comfort food with a touch of elegance.

Packed with tender chicken, toasted pecans, sweet grapes, and a creamy dressing that brings everything together, Lizzy’s version is perfect for everything from weekday lunches to bridal showers, potlucks, and warm-weather picnics. Whether served on croissants, crackers, lettuce cups, or straight from the bowl, this chicken salad always disappears fast.

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Why It’s "Famous"

Lizzy didn’t just throw ingredients together — she perfected the balance of texture and flavor:

• Crunchy toasted pecans for a nutty richness

• Juicy grapes for natural sweetness

• Diced celery and red onion for a fresh bite

• A creamy dressing with just the right amount of tang

It’s light enough for summer but satisfying enough to serve year-round. No wonder it’s a staple at every get-together.

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Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped or shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)

• 1 cup red grapes, halved

• 3/4 cup toasted pecans, roughly chopped

• 2 celery stalks, finely diced

• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped (optional for a mild kick)

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 1/4 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt (for tang and creaminess)

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice or apple cider vinegar

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prep Your Ingredients

Toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant. Let cool.

2. Make the Dressing

In a large bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or yogurt), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.

3. Combine Everything

Add the chicken, grapes, celery, red onion, and pecans to the bowl. Gently fold the mixture until everything is coated in the dressing.

4. Chill and Serve

Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving — this helps the flavors meld together. Serve chilled on croissants, sandwich bread, lettuce leaves, or with crackers.

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Tips for Success

• Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and extra flavor.

• Toast the pecans — it’s a small step that adds big flavor.

• Let it chill — it tastes better after sitting in the fridge.

• Adjust to taste: Add a bit of honey for more sweetness, or a touch of cayenne for a spicy kick.

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Serving Suggestions

• Classic Sandwich: Pile it high on buttery croissants or sourdough bread.

• Low-Carb Option: Spoon into romaine lettuce cups.

• Party-Style: Serve in mini phyllo cups or as a dip with crackers.

• Meal Prep: Make ahead and keep refrigerated for up to 3 days.

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Final Thoughts

Lizzy’s Famous Pecan Chicken Salad is more than just a dish — it’s a tradition. It’s the kind of recipe people ask for after one bite, the one you bring to every baby shower and backyard lunch, the one that reminds you of Southern hospitality at its finest.

With its perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and savory, this chicken salad earns its “famous” title every single time.

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Pro Tip: Double the batch — it won’t last long.