Chicken salad is a versatile dish that combines tender chicken with a blend of fresh ingredients, offering a balance of flavors and textures. Here’s a recipe for a classic chicken salad:
Chicken salad is a versatile dish that combines tender chicken with a blend of fresh ingredients, offering a balance of flavors and textures. Here’s a recipe for a classic chicken salad:
Classic Chicken Salad Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
(Rotisserie chicken or poached chicken breasts work well.)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
(Adjust to taste or substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.)
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup almonds or pecans, toasted and chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries or grapes, halved (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs, like parsley or dill, chopped (optional)
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Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken:
Shred or dice your cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Mix the Dressing:
In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Combine Ingredients:
Add the chicken, celery, onion, nuts, and dried fruit to the bowl with the dressing. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Taste and Adjust:
Adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice, if needed.
- Chill and Serve:
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve on lettuce leaves, as a sandwich filling, or with crackers.