Are you looking for a meal that's both easy to make and incredibly delicious? If so, you've just found the perfect solution with this simple chicken salad recipe. Not only is this dish packed with flavor, but it's also versatile enough to fit into various dietary preferences, making it ideal for gatherings or a quick weekday meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1 cup grapes, halved
- 1⁄4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1⁄2 cup walnuts or pecans, roughly chopped
- 1⁄2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh herbs like dill or parsley
Preparation Steps
Let’s dive into how to prepare this delectable chicken salad:
- Shred the Chicken: Begin by shredding the cooked chicken into small pieces. You can use rotisserie chicken, boiled chicken, or even leftover grilled chicken for a smoky flavor.
- Chop and Prep: While the chicken is cooling, chop the celery, halve the grapes, and finely dice the red onion.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken with celery, grapes, red onion, and nuts. If you're using fresh herbs, chop them finely and add them now.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a separate bowl, mix the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to make the dressing. This ensures an even distribution of flavors.
- Mix: Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently mix until everything is well coated.
- Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld together.
Serving Suggestions
This chicken salad is incredibly versatile:
- Serve on a bed of mixed greens or spinach.
- Make chicken salad wraps with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado.
- Create a sandwich or open-faced chicken salad melt.
- Use as a filling for stuffed bell peppers or tomatoes.
- Enjoy with crackers or toasted bread for a hearty snack.
Variations
- Healthy: Swap out half the mayo for Greek yogurt to reduce calories.
- Fruit: Add some diced apple or dried cranberries for a different texture and flavor.
- Spicy: Include a pinch of cayenne or chopped jalapeno for a kick.
- Herbaceous: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil, tarragon, or chives for an aromatic touch.
- Crunchy: Throw in some chopped cucumber or water chestnuts.
Storage Tips
Storing your chicken salad properly ensures it stays fresh:
- Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- If making ahead, add the nuts just before serving to retain their crunch.
- Avoid freezing the salad as mayonnaise does not freeze well.
🌟 Note: Always ensure that your chicken salad is properly refrigerated to avoid spoilage. If it seems too wet when serving, you can strain off some excess liquid.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Approx. Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300 |
| Protein | 20g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Fiber | 2g |
What's not to love about this simple yet scrumptious meal? You get lean protein from the chicken, vitamins from the grapes, and beneficial fats from nuts and mayo. It's a balanced dish that can be easily adapted to suit any palate or dietary requirement.
Can I make this chicken salad vegan?
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Yes! Substitute chicken with chickpeas or tempeh, use vegan mayo, and skip any animal-based ingredients like cheese if you’re making variations.
What are some good side dishes to serve with chicken salad?
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Pair it with roasted vegetables, fresh fruit, a light soup, or a crisp green salad.
Can I add different meats to the recipe?
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Absolutely. Turkey or ham can be used instead of chicken. You can even mix meats for a different flavor profile.
How do I know if the chicken salad has gone bad?
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Signs that your chicken salad has gone bad include: a sour smell, mold growth, a slimy texture, or a taste that is off. Always refrigerate and discard any questionable leftovers.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
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Yes, this chicken salad is great for meal prep. Make a large batch and portion it out for lunches throughout the week. Just remember to keep it refrigerated and to add nuts or fresh herbs just before eating to maintain texture and flavor.
