When it comes to cooking, recipes, bon appétit moments, nothing beats a fresh, flavorful chicken salad that’s easy to prepare and perfect for a sunny day. This recipe, inspired by a classic 19th-century American twist, combines creamy dressing, crunchy celery, sweet grapes, and tender chicken into a harmonious bowl of deliciousness. Whether you're looking for a light lunch, a quick snack, or a meal prep option, this chicken salad recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Gathering the Essentials: Ingredients and Prep
The beauty of this chicken salad lies in its simplicity and texture variety. The recipe calls for:
- 4 cups (420 grams) of cooked chicken – You can cube or shred three cooked chicken breasts, or simply grab a rotisserie chicken from the supermarket for an easy shortcut packed with flavor.
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced for a mild onion bite.
- 3 celery stalks – chopped to add a refreshing crunch.
- 1 cup (200 grams) of sweet red grapes, halved for a juicy pop.
- ⅓ cup (40 grams) of sliced almonds – for an extra crunch and nutty flavor.
- ½ cup (120 grams) of mayonnaise – the creamy base that ties everything together. If mayo isn’t your favorite, homemade versions or preferred brands like Dukes can make all the difference.
- 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard – adds a subtle tang and depth.
- ½ teaspoon each of salt and black pepper – to season perfectly.
- Fresh herbs (optional) – parsley, tarragon, or dill to finish with a bright, vegetal touch.
Step-by-Step: How to Build the Perfect Chicken Salad
Start by chopping your cooked chicken into bite-sized cubes or shredding it, depending on your preference. Cubed chicken offers neat little bites perfect for forks or spoons, while shredded chicken tends to soak up more of the dressing for a creamier experience.
Next, thinly slice the green onions and chop the celery stalks. The celery brings a crisp texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy dressing and tender chicken. Halve the sweet red grapes to add a juicy sweetness that balances the savory elements.
Once all your ingredients are prepped, transfer them into a large mixing bowl. Don’t forget to add the sliced almonds for that satisfying crunch that elevates the salad’s texture.
Creating the Dressing: Creamy, Tangy, and Just Right
The dressing is the heart of this chicken salad, bringing all the flavors together. Combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. The Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang that perfectly balances the richness of the mayo, while the seasoning brings out the best in every ingredient.
Mix the dressing gently with the chicken mixture until everything is coated evenly but not overly mashed. This gentle folding keeps the textures intact, ensuring every bite has a delightful combination of creamy, crunchy, and juicy elements.
Serving Suggestions and Finishing Touches
This chicken salad is incredibly versatile. It's perfect on its own, served by the spoonful in a bowl, or as a filling for sandwiches. Try it with fresh lettuce and a crunchy baguette or ciabatta for a satisfying lunch or picnic option.
For a fresh, herbaceous finish, sprinkle in a couple of tablespoons of chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, tarragon, or dill. Parsley adds a soft, vegetal note, while tarragon brings a slightly sweet, anise-like flavor that complements the salad beautifully.
Letting the salad chill in the fridge for 20 to 30 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Plus, it keeps well for up to a week when stored in an airtight container, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.
A Timeless Recipe with a Modern Twist
The chicken salad we enjoy today, featuring mayonnaise and herbs, dates back to the 1860s in Rhode Island, credited to Liam Gray for his meat market. While versions of chicken salad have existed for centuries, this particular creamy variation is a classic of 19th-century American cuisine.
This recipe is a personal favorite, reminiscent of childhood meals but with room for personal twists and added textures. Whether you add more crunch, different nuts, or swap herbs, this chicken salad is a canvas for your creativity.
Perfect for warm days, quick lunches, or family potlucks, this chicken salad recipe is a delightful way to enjoy simple ingredients with a burst of flavor and texture.
Enjoy this easy, delicious chicken salad recipe that brings together creamy, crunchy, and sweet in every bite. For more inspiration and tasty recipes, explore other summer favorites and keep your kitchen buzzing with flavor and fun!
This article was created from the video Easy Chicken Salad Recipe with the help of AI.
Easy Chicken Salad Recipe: A Flavor-Packed Delight for Warm Days. There are any Easy Chicken Salad Recipe: A Flavor-Packed Delight for Warm Days in here.
