This chicken salad recipe is a delightful blend of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a creamy dressing that makes for a refreshing and satisfying meal. Perfect for warm weather, picnics, or quick lunches, this salad is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. With the option to customize it to your taste, this chicken salad is bound to become a staple in your cooking repertoire.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You’ll love this chicken salad recipe because it strikes the perfect balance between flavor and nutrition. Inspired by my grandmother’s classic recipe, I’ve added my own twist with fresh herbs and a tangy yogurt dressing, creating a dish that is both comforting and invigorating. Growing up, family gatherings often featured a big bowl of chicken salad served alongside crusty bread. The flavors remind me of those cherished moments and inspire me to share this recipe with you. It’s not just a meal; it’s a connection to loved ones, making every bite a celebration.
Tips and Tricks
- Use Leftover Chicken: This recipe is an excellent way to utilize leftover rotisserie chicken or grilled chicken breast. Just shred or chop it for quick assembly.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or a squeeze of lemon juice to the dressing.
- Herb Magic: Fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives brighten the salad and elevate its taste. Don’t skip the herbs!
- Chill Before Serving: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This melds the flavors beautifully.
Make Ahead Tips
This chicken salad can be made ahead of time, making it a perfect option for meal prep. You can cook and shred the chicken up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dressing can also be prepared and stored separately for up to one week. Simply combine the chicken, vegetables, and dressing just before serving to maintain freshness and texture.
Recipe Variations
- Add Fruits: Incorporate diced apples, grapes, or dried cranberries for a sweet twist.
- Swap the Protein: Substitute chicken with canned tuna, chickpeas, or shredded turkey for a different flavor.
- Change the Dressing: Experiment with vinaigrettes or a spicy sriracha mayo for a kick.
- Grains and Greens: Mix in cooked quinoa, farro, or leafy greens for added texture and nutrition.
How to Serve
Serve this chicken salad on a bed of mixed greens for a light option, or pile it high on toasted bread or a buttery croissant for a heartier meal. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for an appealing presentation. You could also serve it in lettuce wraps for a low-carb alternative.
Pairing Suggestions
For a refreshing drink, pair this chicken salad with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light iced tea with lemon. Complement your meal with a side of crispy sweet potato fries or a simple fruit salad for dessert, adding a burst of color and sweetness to round out the meal.
How to Store
Leftover chicken salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you plan to freeze it, consider freezing only the chicken and dressing separately, as the vegetables may become soggy upon thawing. To reheat, simply warm the chicken gently in the microwave or on the stove, then mix with fresh vegetables and dressing.
Equipment Needed
You will need basic kitchen tools: a sharp knife for chopping, a cutting board, mixing bowls, and measuring cups. If you’re poaching the chicken, a pot or dutch oven will work perfectly. No special equipment is required for this recipe, making it accessible for all home cooks.
Dietary Adaptations
For a vegan version, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use a vegan mayo or avocado for the dressing. To make it gluten-free, ensure you use gluten-free mayonnaise or serve it on gluten-free bread. For nut-free options, simply omit any nuts or seeds you might add.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring and summer, use fresh vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, and radishes. In the fall and winter, consider incorporating roasted vegetables or apples for warmth and sweetness. Adjusting the ingredients according to the season not only enhances flavors but also keeps the dish exciting year-round.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, but be sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even results.
- How long does it take to cook chicken? Boneless chicken breasts typically take about 15-20 minutes to cook through when poaching.
- Can I substitute Greek yogurt? Absolutely! Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein; you can also use sour cream or mayonnaise if preferred.
- What’s a good alternative for mayonnaise? Greek yogurt, avocado, or a vinaigrette can replace mayonnaise for a lighter dressing.
Chicken Salad Recipe
This chicken salad recipe is a delightful blend of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a creamy dressing that makes for a refreshing and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup red grapes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (dill, parsley, or chives)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced celery, halved grapes, and diced red onion.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until well combined.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. If desired, fold in fresh herbs for added flavor.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve on a bed of greens, in a sandwich, or in lettuce wraps.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 386Total Fat 30gSaturated Fat 6gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 23gCholesterol 75mgSodium 522mgCarbohydrates 12gFiber 2gSugar 8gProtein 18g
Leafyplated.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although Leafyplated.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This chicken salad recipe is not just a meal; it’s a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit any occasion or dietary need. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply looking for a quick lunch option, this recipe delivers on taste and presentation. Give it a try, and I hope it brings back fond memories and creates new ones around your table! Happy cooking!
