Classic Chicken Salad
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction
Fancy a cracking simple chicken salad recipe ? Honestly, who doesn't love a good chicken salad? It's pure comfort food, innit? You know, that classic dish that always hits the spot.
Quick Hook
Ever wondered how to elevate your chicken salad sandwich game? This classic chicken salad recipe is your answer. It's got that perfectly balanced flavor profile, a beautiful creamy chicken salad recipe that blends tangy, savory, and a touch of sweet.
Brief Overview
Chicken salad has roots way back, becoming a staple in American and British cuisine. Think of it as the perfect dish for summer picnic food ideas .
This version is super easy, taking about an hour total, including chill time, and makes enough for four hungry folks.
Main Benefits
This homemade chicken salad is packed with protein. It's perfect for a quick and easy lunch ideas . What makes this best chicken salad stand out? It's totally customizable, so you can make lots of chicken salad variations tailored to your taste.
Getting Started
Let's be honest, sometimes cooking chicken can be a right faff. But relax, we're making it simple. You can even use a rotisserie chicken salad recipe to make it even easier! It's a proper lifesaver when you're short on time.
Speaking of shortcuts, have you tried adding chicken salad with cranberries ? Seriously, it's a game changer! The sweetness works a treat with the savory chicken and creamy dressing.
Honestly, give it a whirl - you won't regret it!
Ingredients & Equipment For The Best Chicken Salad
Alright, so you wanna make a seriously good simple chicken salad recipe ? Sorted. Let's talk ingredients and kit. Honestly, it's dead easy, don't stress it. This ain't MasterChef, right?
Main Ingredients: The Chicken!
First up, the star of the show: chicken! You'll need 1.5 lbs (680g) of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Proper chicken is key, not that rubbery stuff.
Look for chicken that's plump and pink, not pale and sad. You'll also need 1 tsp (5ml) of salt and ½ tsp (2.
5ml) of pepper to season it up. Don't forget 1 tbsp (15ml) of olive oil for cooking. I usually just grab whatever's on hand, but a good quality olive oil does make a difference, you know?
The Salad Bits
Next, the good stuff that makes it creamy chicken salad recipe . Get yourself 1 cup (240ml) of mayonnaise. Hellmann's is always a safe bet.
Then, 2 tbsp (30ml) of Dijon mustard and 2 tbsp (30ml) of freshly squeezed lemon juice. The lemon is a must for that zing! Now, for the crunch and flavour.
Dice ½ cup (60g) of celery and ¼ cup (30g) of red onion super finely. Honestly, big chunks of onion are just nasty.
Feeling fancy? Throw in ¼ cup (40g) of dried cranberries for a bit of sweetness. A pinch of salt and pepper finish it off.
It is one of the easy lunch ideas .
Seasoning Notes: Let's Get Spicy (Sort Of)!
Okay, so this classic chicken salad recipe isn't exactly a fiery affair. But, good seasoning makes all the difference. The Dijon mustard adds a nice tang, and the lemon juice is essential for brightening things up.
If you're feeling adventurous, a tiny pinch of celery salt can work wonders. And for a chicken salad with cranberries variation you can replace with chopped grapes or chopped apple.
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple
Honestly, you don't need much. A large skillet or saucepan for cooking the chicken, a mixing bowl, a cutting board, and a sharp knife.
That's it! Don't have a skillet? A frying pan will do. No fancy chef's knife? Just use whatever you've got! It makes it an homemade chicken salad .
This rotisserie chicken salad recipe is perfect for picnics and barbecues. Get ready for the best chicken salad sandwich ever! You will think about some picnic food ideas
Enjoy!
Cooking Method: Classic Chicken Salad Easy & Delicious
Fancy a chicken salad sandwich ? This recipe's a winner! It's my go-to for a quick and easy lunch. Seriously, folks, this simple chicken salad recipe is foolproof.
Honestly, even I can't mess this one up! It's so simple to make, its perfect for easy lunch ideas, even the kids can help!
Prep Steps: Get Your Act Together!
First things first, get all your ingredients prepped. This is the mise en place , darling. It sounds fancy but just means chopping everything up beforehand.
It saves a ton of time, you know? Dice your celery, red onion, and parsley. Oh my gosh! This really makes the difference! Remember to cook your chicken too.
It is important to have every ready and well organized before you start, so you don't end up loosing your focus.
Now, a word of warning: always wash your hands before you start cooking, especially when dealing with raw chicken. Can't be too careful, can we?
step-by-step Process: Easy Peasy!
- Cook 1.5 lbs (680g) of chicken breasts . Aim for an internal temperature of 165° F ( 74° C) .
- Let the chicken cool slightly. Then, shred it into bite sized pieces.
- Whisk together 1 cup (240ml) of mayonnaise , 2 tbsp (30ml) of Dijon mustard , and 2 tbsp (30ml) of lemon juice .
- Add ½ cup (60g) diced celery , ¼ cup (30g) diced red onion , and ¼ cup (40g) chopped cranberries (if using).
- Gently stir everything together. It must be well combined!
- Season to taste with salt and pepper. Don't be shy!
- Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes . This step is important for the flavours to meld.
Pro Tips: Secrets from a Pro (ish)!
Don't overcook the chicken! It makes a difference! It becomes dry and sad. Dice the celery and red onion really fine.
Big chunks are a bit rubbish, aren't they? I always use good quality mayo. It makes a difference with the texture and tastiness of the creamy chicken salad recipe.
Want to make this ahead? Absolutely! The homemade chicken salad will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Honestly, it tastes even better the next day!
So there you have it! A classic chicken salad recipe that's perfect for sandwiches, picnics, or just a quick bite.
Enjoy this rotisserie chicken salad recipe and share the love and let me know what are your chicken salad variations ! This is great for picnic food ideas
Recipe Notes
Right then, so you've got the lowdown on my take on a classic chicken salad recipe . Before you dive in, let's chat about some tips and tricks.
These little bits of advice should help you make the best chicken salad you've ever had. I promise! These notes is more about the way I make my chicken salad.
Serving Suggestions: Making it Look the Business
Okay, so presentation matters, doesn't it? For a proper lunch, I love piling my homemade chicken salad high on a buttery croissant.
Cut it in half, add a few crisps on the plate, and Bob's your uncle! Simple but effective . Another great shout is to serve it on a bed of crispy lettuce with some sliced tomatoes.
It is one of those easy lunch ideas that actually delivers. I've also been known to just grab a spoon and eat it straight from the bowl.
.. don't judge me !
Think about pairing this with a light and crisp glass of white wine, a Sauvignon Blanc would be amazing!. Or, if you're after something non-alcoholic, a cold glass of lemonade or iced tea really hits the spot.
If you are hosting a party, you could arrange this as picnic food ideas along with some crackers for a delightful appetizer!
Storage Tips: Keeping it Fresh
Right, so you've made a big batch of this creamy chicken salad recipe , and you've got leftovers, brilliant! Pop it in an airtight container, and it'll keep happily in the fridge for up to 3 days .
Honestly, I've never had it last that long because I always end up scoffing it.
Freezing isn't really recommended for this, the mayonnaise can split and get a bit weird when it defrosts. Trust me, you're better off just making a fresh batch.
It's so easy anyway! Don't say I didn't warn you! To reheat, no need! Just grab a spoon and serve it cold.
Variations: Making it Your Own
One of my favourite chicken salad variations is adding a spoonful of mango chutney. Trust me, it sounds odd, but the sweetness is incredible! Or, for a bit of crunch, try adding some toasted almonds.
Feeling healthy? Swap half the mayo for Greek yogurt. Mind blown, right?
If you're doing a rotisserie chicken salad recipe , use that meat, for sure! In the autumn, swap those dried cranberries for chopped apple.
It brings a lovely seasonal touch. Make a chicken salad with cranberries to give your salad a sweet and colorful kick.
Nutrition Basics: The Good Stuff
Okay, so I'm no nutritionist, but a serving of this simple chicken salad recipe is packed with protein. It will keep you going for hours.
The celery and red onion add some good vitamins. Plus, a bit of fat from the mayonnaise keeps you feeling satisfied.
Not that you need encouragement to eat it! This is a healthy and delicious way to enjoy classic chicken salad for your next meal.
So, there you have it! All my little secrets for the best chicken salad you'll ever make. Honestly, it's such a simple recipe.
I hope you give it a go, and make it your own. Now get in the kitchen and get cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I prevent my simple chicken salad recipe from being bland?
Bland chicken salad is a real let-down, isn't it? To avoid this culinary crime, make sure you generously season the chicken before cooking it. Don't be shy with the salt and pepper!
Also, a squirt of lemon juice and a touch of Dijon mustard in the dressing will add a zesty kick, like a cheeky wink from Mary Berry herself. Remember to taste and adjust seasoning at the end, too!
Can I make simple chicken salad recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making your simple chicken salad recipe ahead of time is highly recommended. The flavors meld together beautifully as it chills in the fridge, much like a good stew needs time to develop. I'd say make it a day ahead if you can, but even a few hours of chilling will make a noticeable difference.
Just be sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh as a daisy.
What are some good variations to elevate this simple chicken salad recipe?
Fancy a bit of a twist? You can absolutely jazz up your chicken salad! Try adding some chopped grapes or apple for sweetness and crunch, or a sprinkle of toasted almonds for extra texture. A dash of curry powder can create a fantastic curried chicken salad, perfect for adventurous palates.
Think of it as giving your Nan's classic recipe a modern makeover!
How long does chicken salad last, and what's the best way to store it?
Safety first! Chicken salad is best enjoyed within 3-4 days of making it. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help prevent bacteria growth and keep it tasting its best.
If it starts to smell off or looks questionable, it's best to err on the side of caution and chuck it out nobody wants a dodgy tummy!
What kind of chicken is best for this easy chicken salad?
While any cooked chicken will technically work, using poached or roasted chicken breasts yields the best results. Poaching keeps the chicken moist and tender, while roasting adds a delicious depth of flavour.
If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken from the supermarket is a perfectly acceptable shortcut just remember to remove the skin before shredding. Nobody wants that extra fat in there, now do they!
Is simple chicken salad recipe healthy? What are the nutritional considerations?
Chicken salad can be part of a healthy diet, but it depends on the ingredients you use. Opting for light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt instead of full fat mayo will significantly reduce the calorie and fat content. Adding plenty of vegetables, like celery and red onion, will boost the fiber and nutrient content.
Just be mindful of portion sizes everything in moderation, as they say!
Classic Chicken Salad
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 475 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 30g |
| Fiber | 1g |