Chicken Salad Recipe
Article By: Anonymous
This delicious chicken salad recipe combines tender, shredded chicken breast with crisp celery, crunchy walnuts, and sweet grapes, all tossed in a creamy and tangy dressing made from mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, and a hint of Dijon mustard. Seasoned with salt, pepper, and a dash of lemon juice, it’s a refreshing and satisfying dish perfect for lunches, picnics, or light dinners. Serve it on a bed of greens, in a sandwich, or with crackers for a versatile and flavorful meal that’s both easy to prepare and packed with protein! Learn the easy recipe .
Ingredients
For the Chicken Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced (approximately 2-3 medium breasts)
- 1 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds or walnuts (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter alternative)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional for added flavor)
Method
Cook the Chicken:
- If using raw chicken, season the breasts with salt and pepper. In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side or until no longer pink in the center. Alternatively, poach the chicken in simmering water for 15-20 minutes.
- Once cooked, allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before dicing it into bite-sized pieces.
Prepare the Vegetables:
- While the chicken is cooking, prepare the vegetables. Chop the celery, red onion, and carrots. Halve the grape or cherry tomatoes. If using parsley and nuts, chop them as well.
Mix the Dressing:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Whisk until well blended.
Combine Ingredients:
- Add the diced chicken and prepared vegetables to the mixing bowl with the dressing. Gently fold everything together until the ingredients are evenly coated in the dressing. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired.
Chill and Serve:
- For the best flavor, cover the chicken salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve on a bed of greens, as a sandwich filling on toasted bread, or in a wrap. Garnish with additional parsley or sliced almonds if desired.
Conclusion
A chicken salad is not only a versatile and nutritious dish but also an excellent way to utilize leftover chicken while incorporating fresh ingredients. With a base of tender, cooked chicken complemented by a variety of textures and flavors from vegetables, fruits, nuts, and dressings, this recipe provides endless possibilities for customization to suit personal tastes and dietary preferences. Whether served as a light lunch, a hearty dinner, or a refreshing side dish, chicken salad can be easily adapted to include seasonal ingredients or favorite flavors. By experimenting with different combinations, you can create a chicken salad that is uniquely yours, making it a delightful addition to any meal. Enjoy creating this wholesome dish, knowing that it is not only delicious but also a healthy choice for you and your loved ones.