### Simple Steps, Gourmet Results
1. **Toast the Pecans**: A quick toast in a dry skillet brings out their natural oils and enhances flavor.
2. **Make the Dressing**: Whisk together the oil, vinegar, sweetener, mustard, and poppy seeds until emulsified.
3. **Assemble the Salad**: In a large bowl, combine greens, chicken, cranberries, and pecans. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently to coat.
4. **Serve Immediately**: Or store components separately and assemble when ready to eat.
### A Salad for All Seasons
This salad shines in any season. In summer, enjoy it chilled on a hot day. In fall, it pairs beautifully with warm crusty bread or butternut squash soup. During the holidays, it makes a festive starter or light side.
### Final Bite
Whether you’re craving something wholesome or hosting a crowd, this **Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing** is a crowd-pleaser that’s both nutritious and indulgent. With just a few pantry staples and some fresh ingredients, you can create a dish that feels both comforting and gourmet.
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