Chicken Salad

Classic Chicken Salad Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise (adjust to taste)
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, mayonnaise, celery, red onion, Dijon mustard, and parsley.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly coated.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve chilled on bread, in a wrap, or over a bed of lettuce.

This classic recipe provides a great base for experimenting with different ingredients and flavors.

Creative Twists on Chicken Salad

1. Cranberry Almond Chicken Salad

Add a touch of sweetness and crunch with dried cranberries and almonds.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl.
2. Mix until well combined and season with salt and pepper.
3. Serve as a sandwich filling or on crackers as an appetizer.

2. Avocado Chicken Salad

Swap the mayonnaise for avocado to create a healthier, creamy alternative.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 large ripe avocado
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt, pepper, and chili flakes to taste

Instructions:

1. Mash the avocado in a bowl until smooth.
2. Add the shredded chicken, red onion, lime juice, and seasonings.
3. Mix until well combined and serve immediately.

3. Curried Chicken Salad

Spice things up with a dash of curry powder and sweet fruit.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
• 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1/4 cup golden raisins
• 1/4 cup diced apple
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt and curry powder.
2. Add the chicken, golden raisins, and diced apple.
3. Stir until all ingredients are coated and season to taste.
4. Serve chilled with naan or pita bread.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Salad

1. Choose the Right Chicken: Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully for chicken salad, offering tender and flavorful meat. You can also use poached, baked, or grilled chicken.
2. Balance the Texture: Incorporate crunchy elements like celery, nuts, or apples to contrast the creaminess of the dressing.
3. Customize the Dressing: While mayonnaise is a classic choice, you can use Greek yogurt, sour cream, or mashed avocado for a healthier twist.
4. Add Fresh Herbs: Herbs like parsley, dill, or cilantro can elevate the flavor of your chicken salad.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken salad is incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas:

• Sandwiches and Wraps: Spread it between slices of hearty bread or roll it up in a tortilla for a quick meal.
• Salad Topping: Serve it over mixed greens with a drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette for a light and refreshing dish.
• Appetizers: Spoon it onto crackers or cucumber slices for an elegant snack.
• Stuffed Vegetables: Fill halved avocados, bell peppers, or tomatoes with chicken salad for a low-carb option.