Ultimate Chicken Salad Recipe

Chicken salad is a timeless dish that brings together the delightful flavors of tender chicken, creamy mayonnaise, and crunchy vegetables. The Ultimate Chicken Salad Recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a picnic, a light lunch, or a family gathering. Its versatility makes it a favorite among many, and the combination of sweet grapes with fresh herbs adds a unique twist that sets it apart from traditional recipes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious salad in no time.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The blend of chicken, grapes, and herbs creates a refreshing taste that everyone will enjoy.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and nutrients, this salad makes for a satisfying meal without the guilt.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it on a bed of greens, in a sandwich, or as a filling for wraps.
• Easily Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients or adjust flavors to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To achieve the best results with this Ultimate Chicken Salad Recipe, having the right tools in your kitchen is essential. These tools will help streamline the preparation process and ensure an enjoyable cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk or fork

Importance of Each Tool

• Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes chopping ingredients easier and safer. It helps you achieve even cuts for better presentation.
• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl is necessary for combining all the ingredients without spilling.
• Measuring cups and spoons: These are crucial for accurate measurements, ensuring that flavors balance perfectly in your salad.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Salad

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
• ½ cup sliced raw almonds
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 cup red grapes (quartered)
• 2 celery ribs (diced)
• 3 green onions (green and white parts) (sliced)
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped tarragon
• 1 lemon (juiced (about 3 tablespoons))
• kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Ultimate Chicken Salad Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

First, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 15 minutes or until fully cooked through. Remove them from the water and let them cool before dicing into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients

While the chicken cools, prepare your other ingredients. Dice the celery, quarter the grapes, slice the green onions, and chop both types of herbs.

Step 3: Mix the Dressing

In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Use a whisk or fork to blend everything until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the diced chicken to the mixing bowl along with almonds, celery, grapes, green onions, parsley, and tarragon. Gently fold all ingredients together until well mixed.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld together. Enjoy your delicious Ultimate Chicken Salad!

How to Serve Ultimate Chicken Salad Recipe

Ultimate Chicken Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or an elegant dinner option, this chicken salad can adapt to any occasion.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the chicken salad on a bed of mixed greens for a fresh and healthy presentation.

In a Sandwich

• Spread the chicken salad between slices of your favorite bread or in a croissant for a delicious sandwich.

With Crackers

• Pair the chicken salad with crunchy crackers as an easy appetizer or snack.

Stuffed in Avocado

• Hollow out an avocado half and fill it with chicken salad for a nutritious and filling meal.

As a Wrap

• Roll the chicken salad in a tortilla with some leafy greens for a satisfying wrap option.

In Lettuce Cups

• Use large lettuce leaves as cups to hold the chicken salad, making for a light, low-carb option.

How to Perfect Ultimate Chicken Salad Recipe

To make the best Ultimate Chicken Salad, consider these helpful tips that will enhance flavor and texture.

• Use cooked chicken: Opt for freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken for maximum flavor and convenience.
• Chill before serving: Allowing the salad to chill enhances the flavors and makes it more refreshing.
• Customize add-ins: Feel free to add ingredients like diced apples or cranberries for extra sweetness and crunch.
• Mind your seasoning: Always taste and adjust salt, pepper, and lemon juice to achieve the perfect balance.
• Fresh herbs are key: Using fresh parsley and tarragon elevates the dish with vibrant flavors compared to dried herbs.

Best Side Dishes for Ultimate Chicken Salad Recipe

Ultimate Chicken Salad pairs beautifully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to complement your meal.

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy side that adds texture and contrast to the creamy chicken salad.
2. Potato Chips: The salty crunch of chips provides a satisfying bite alongside the rich flavors of the salad.
3. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can balance out the richness of the chicken salad with its natural sweetness.
4. Pasta Salad: A chilled pasta salad brings additional flavors and can be seasoned according to your preference.
5. Vegetable Crudités: Fresh cut vegetables served with hummus or dip offer a healthy crunchy alternative.
6. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread complements savory dishes nicely, adding warmth and comfort to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Ultimate Chicken Salad Recipe, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using dry chicken: If your chicken is overcooked, it can dry out the salad. To avoid this, cook the chicken until just done and use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
• Skipping seasoning: Failing to season the salad can result in bland flavors. Always taste and adjust with salt and pepper after combining ingredients.
• Not chilling before serving: Serving the salad immediately can prevent the flavors from melding together. Allow it to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.
• Overloading with ingredients: Adding too many extras can overwhelm the classic flavors. Stick to the recipe’s balance of ingredients for the best results.
• Using low-quality mayonnaise: Cheap mayonnaise can compromise flavor and creaminess. Opt for a high-quality mayonnaise for the best taste and texture.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Ultimate Chicken Salad Recipe in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Make sure to keep it chilled until serving time.

Freezing Ultimate Chicken Salad Recipe

• Freezing is not recommended as it affects texture.
• If you must freeze, do so without any added grapes or fresh herbs.
• Use a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month for best quality.

Reheating Ultimate Chicken Salad Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make the Ultimate Chicken Salad Recipe healthier?

You can substitute Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise or add more vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch and nutrients.

Can I customize my Ultimate Chicken Salad Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, different fruits like apples or pears, or even swap out herbs based on your preference.

What should I serve with my Ultimate Chicken Salad Recipe?

This salad pairs well with whole-grain bread, crackers, or on a bed of mixed greens for a lighter meal.

How long does Ultimate Chicken Salad last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, it lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

The Ultimate Chicken Salad Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting seasonings. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for lunch or as a light dinner option!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Ultimate Chicken Salad Recipe

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• Author: Lucille
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

The Ultimate Chicken Salad Recipe is a delightful blend of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and sweet grapes, all enveloped in a creamy mayonnaise dressing. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for any occasion, from picnics to family gatherings. With just 10 minutes of preparation time, you can create a refreshing and satisfying meal that everyone will love. Not only is it versatile—you can serve it in sandwiches, on greens, or as a filling for wraps—but it’s also highly customizable to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or an elegant dinner option, this chicken salad recipe is sure to impress.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
• ½ cup sliced raw almonds
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 cup red grapes (quartered)
• 2 celery ribs (diced)
• 3 green onions (sliced)
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped tarragon
• Juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tablespoons)
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

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Instructions

1. Cook the chicken: Bring a pot of salted water to boil. Add chicken breasts and cook for about 15 minutes until fully cooked. Let cool before dicing.
2. Prepare ingredients: Dice celery, quarter grapes, slice green onions, and chop herbs while the chicken cools.
3. Mix dressing: In a mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper; whisk until smooth.
4. Combine: Add diced chicken, almonds, celery, grapes, green onions, parsley, and tarragon to the bowl; gently fold until mixed.
5. Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Boiling/Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 90mg