Best Ever Chicken Salad

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If you’re on the hunt for a versatile and delicious dish, look no further than this Best-Ever Chicken Salad. Perfectly suited for sandwiches or as a topping on a fresh green salad, this recipe is your go-to option. Imagine the creamy texture of mayonnaise combined with tender chicken and a medley of flavors. You can even customize it with crumbled bacon, raisins, cashews, or a hint of curry powder. While homemade mayo can elevate this salad to new heights, a high-quality store-bought version works just as well. With its perfect balance of flavors, this chicken salad is bound to be a hit at your next lunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chicken salad is wonderfully creamy without being overly wet. It manages to strike the perfect balance between sweet and tangy, making it a delight to your taste buds. Whether served on a bed of lettuce, in a sandwich, or wrapped in a tortilla, it’s a quick and easy meal for any occasion. The seasoned chicken breast, creamy mayonnaise, lemon juice, and crunchy celery come together in just minutes, making it the best chicken salad you’ll ever have.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowls (large and small)
• Measuring spoons
• Knife and chopping board
• Oven

Ingredients

• 3 – 4 lbs of chicken parts (bone-in, skin-on thighs and breasts work well)
• 2 tablespoons quality olive oil
• 1 cup of seedless grapes, sliced in half (red and green varieties are great)
• 1 cup almonds, thinly sliced (optional)
• 1 celery stalk, sliced
• 4 scallions, thinly sliced, white and green parts
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon Kosher salt (start with 1/2 teaspoon, then add more, to taste)
• Freshly ground pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Rub the olive oil over the chicken pieces and season them with salt and pepper.
3. Bake the chicken for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Remove the chicken from the oven, let it cool, then pull the meat from the bones and roughly chop it.
5. In a large bowl, combine the chopped chicken, grapes, almonds, celery, scallions, dill, and parsley.
6. In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, mustard, salt, and pepper.
7. Add the mayonnaise mixture to the chicken mixture and gently stir until well mixed.
8. Refrigerate the salad for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld.
9. Serve on a bed of green leaves with sliced tomatoes and avocado, or on bread with green leaf lettuce. Customize with additional toppings to your liking!

Tips for Success

• Ensure the chicken is fully cooled before mixing it with the other ingredients to prevent wilting the greens.
• Taste and adjust seasoning to your preference, especially salt and pepper.
• Chilling the salad enhances the flavors, so don’t skip this step.

Additional Tips and Variations

For a different twist, consider adding chopped apples or cranberries for a hint of sweetness. If you prefer a bit of spice, a dash of cayenne pepper can add a subtle kick. Substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise if you’re looking for a lighter option.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This chicken salad is a rich source of protein and healthy fats, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal. The exact nutritional content will vary based on portion sizes and specific ingredient brands used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option. Simply shred the chicken and proceed with the recipe.

How long does the chicken salad last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, this chicken salad should last 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze chicken salad?
It’s not recommended to freeze chicken salad as the texture may change upon thawing, especially if it contains mayonnaise.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoy making and eating this Best-Ever Chicken Salad as much as we do! It’s a versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out for you. Feel free to experiment with different add-ins and share your experiences in the comments below. Bon appétit!

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