Delicious Homemade Easy Chicken Salad Recipe

About Chicken Salad Recipe

Indulge in a delightful homemade chicken salad recipe! A chicken salad recipe is a culinary delight that typically includes cooked chicken combined with various ingredients like mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, celery, onions, nuts, dried fruits, and fresh herbs.

Gallery Chicken Salad Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
• 1 stalk celery, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds or chopped walnuts (optional)
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries or grapes, halved (optional)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lettuce leaves or bread for serving

Instructions

1/ In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), celery, red onion, nuts (if using), dried cranberries or grapes (if using), parsley, and lemon juice. Mix everything until well combined.

2/ Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.

3/ Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

4/ Serve the chicken salad on a bed of lettuce leaves, as a sandwich filling, or enjoy it with crackers or bread.

Tips and tricks to enhance your chicken salad recipe

Use a Mix of White and Dark Meat: Combining both white and dark chicken meat adds flavor and moisture to the salad.

Prefer Homemade Chicken: If possible, use homemade cooked chicken instead of pre-packaged or canned chicken for better flavor and texture.

Balance the Creaminess: Adjust the ratio of mayonnaise and Greek yogurt (or sour cream) to achieve the desired level of creaminess without overpowering the salad.

Add Texture: Incorporate crunchy elements like celery, nuts (almonds, walnuts), or seeds (such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds) for a pleasing texture contrast.

Balance Flavors: Balance the flavors with a touch of acidity from lemon juice or a splash of apple cider vinegar. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

Include Fresh Herbs: Add freshness and depth of flavor with chopped herbs like parsley, dill, cilantro, or chives.

Let it Chill: Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.

Avoid Soggy Salad: If making sandwiches, consider layering the salad between lettuce leaves to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.

Customize to Taste: Feel free to personalize your salad by adding diced fruits like apples, grapes, or even dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness.

Maintain Freshness: Consume the salad within a few days for the best taste and quality. Keep it refrigerated in an airtight container to preserve its freshness.

Nutrition Facts

The nutritional values of a chicken salad recipe can vary based on the specific ingredients used and their quantities. Here’s a general breakdown of the approximate nutritional information for a typical chicken salad.

• Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 220 grams)

Nutritional values

• Calories: Around 300-350 calories
• Protein: Approximately 20-25 grams
• Total Fat: About 20-25 grams
• Saturated Fat: Around 3-5 grams
• Unsaturated Fats: Vary based on ingredients used (e.g., from nuts, mayonnaise)
• Carbohydrates: Roughly 10-15 grams
• Dietary Fiber: Varies based on ingredients
• Sugars: Varies, especially if using dried fruits or added sugars
• Cholesterol: Approximately 60-80 milligrams
• Sodium: About 300-400 milligrams (varies based on seasoning and ingredients)
• Vitamins and Minerals: Contains varying amounts of vitamins such as B vitamins, vitamin C, and minerals like calcium, iron, and potassium, depending on ingredients used.

These values are approximate and can significantly differ based on the specific ingredients and their brands or variations in the recipe used.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) about chicken salad

How long can chicken salad last in the refrigerator?

Chicken salad can typically last for about 3 to 4 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Be mindful of the ingredients used and their freshness.

Can I freeze chicken salad?

It’s not recommended to freeze chicken salad, especially if it contains mayonnaise or yogurt. Freezing may alter the texture and consistency of the salad when thawed.

What are some variations to a basic chicken salad recipe?

You can customize chicken salad by adding ingredients like diced apples, grapes, nuts (almonds, walnuts), bell peppers, dried cranberries, or using different herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.

Can I use leftover cooked chicken for chicken salad?

Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken, whether roasted, grilled, or boiled, can be a great base for chicken salad. Shred or dice the chicken before mixing it with other ingredients.

Is chicken salad a healthy option?

Chicken salad can be a nutritious choice, especially if made with lean chicken, plenty of veggies, and a lighter dressing (such as Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise). However, the overall healthiness depends on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

What are some serving suggestions for chicken salad?

Chicken salad can be served on a bed of lettuce, as a sandwich or wrap filling, with crackers, or stuffed in a pita pocket.

How can I prevent the salad from becoming too watery?

Patting dry the cooked chicken before adding other ingredients and ensuring that vegetables like celery are finely chopped can help prevent excess moisture in the salad.

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