THE BEST CHICKEN SALAD

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Imagine a dish that brings together the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and crunchy elements, all wrapped up in one delightful bite. The BEST Chicken Salad is exactly that—a classic recipe that’s both delicious and incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you enjoy it on its own or nestled in a soft croissant, this salad is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chicken salad is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. With the tangy sweetness of cranberries, the crisp freshness of Granny Smith apples, and the nutty crunch of pecans, each bite is a delightful experience. The addition of mayonnaise and Greek yogurt creates a creamy dressing that’s both rich and light, making it an ideal choice for lunch or a light dinner.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Mixing Bowl
• Measuring Spoons
• Measuring Cups
• Knife
• Cutting Board
• Spoon for Mixing

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons of plain Greek yogurt
• 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 2 tablespoons dried cranberries
• 3 tablespoons of chopped pecans
• 1/4 cup diced Granny Smith apple
• 10 ounces (1 can) chicken breast, drained, cut into pieces
• Baby spinach leaves, optional
• 4 croissants or soft rolls, optional

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and taste to adjust the seasoning if necessary.
2. Gently fold in the dried cranberries, chopped pecans, diced apple, and chicken breast pieces until all ingredients are evenly coated.
3. Serve immediately as is, or scoop the mixture onto sliced croissants or soft rolls with a handful of baby spinach or lettuce leaves for added freshness.

Tips for Success

• For a more intense flavor, let the salad sit in the refrigerator for an hour before serving.
• Feel free to adjust the amount of mustard to suit your taste preferences.

Additional Tips and Variations

Switch up the nuts by using walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile. You can also add a bit of celery for extra crunch or swap the cranberries for raisins or dried cherries.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This chicken salad is not only tasty but also packed with protein and healthy fats. With the added benefit of fruits and nuts, it’s a wholesome choice that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use fresh chicken instead of canned? Absolutely! Simply cook and shred or dice your chicken before adding it to the salad.

How long will the chicken salad last in the refrigerator? Store it in an airtight container for up to three days.

Is there a substitute for Greek yogurt? You can use sour cream or an extra tablespoon of mayonnaise as a replacement.

Conclusion

This BEST Chicken Salad is a delightful and versatile dish that’s sure to win over your taste buds. Whether you’re preparing a quick lunch or a light dinner, it’s a recipe worth trying and sharing. We’d love to hear how you enjoyed this dish, so feel free to leave a comment with your thoughts and any variations you tried!

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