Introduction
Chicken salad is a versatile and refreshing dish that can be enjoyed in various ways, whether as a standalone meal, a sandwich filling, or a colorful wrap. This recipe combines tender chicken, sweet red grapes, crunchy celery, and roasted cashews, all brought together with a creamy and tangy dressing. Ideal for an afternoon picnic, a light lunch, or meal prep for the week ahead, this chicken salad is both delicious and satisfying.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Dressing:
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (preferably 2% milkfat or higher)
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 2 teaspoons sugar (adjust to taste; honey can be used as an alternative)
– 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 3/4 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Salad:
– 2 1/2 cups cooked chicken, cubed or diced (rotisserie chicken breast is recommended)
– 1 1/2 cups red grapes, sliced
– 1 cup finely diced celery (approximately 2-3 stalks)
– 1 cup roasted cashew halves and pieces
– Optional: additional seasonings such as dried or fresh herbs, salt, and pepper (dried chives are a suggested addition)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 0 minutes (using pre-cooked chicken)
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6 people
This simple yet flavor-packed chicken salad is bound to be a hit at your next gathering or as a delightful meal on a busy day. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Dressing
In a bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, sugar, kosher salt, onion powder, and garlic powder until the mixture is smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, keeping in mind that the flavor will be distributed throughout the salad.
Combine the Salad Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, sliced red grapes, diced celery, and roasted cashew pieces.
Mix the Salad
Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss everything together until all components are evenly coated with the dressing.
Season to Taste
If desired, add extra seasonings such as dried or fresh herbs, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavor.
Serve
The chicken salad can be served immediately or chilled in the refrigerator until ready to serve. It pairs well as a filling for sandwiches, wraps, or can be enjoyed on its own.
Notes
Dressings and Alternatives
You can adjust the sugar in the dressing to taste, and honey can be used as an alternative sweetener.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you prefer a different type of nuts or want to make the recipe nut-free, you can omit the cashews or substitute them with seeds like sunflower seeds.
Serving Suggestions
This chicken salad can be used in a variety of dishes such as on a bed of greens, as a sandwich filling, or wrapped in tortillas.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors may become stronger as it sits.
Cook techniques
Preparing the Dressing
In a bowl, whisk together the ingredients for the dressing until smooth. This ensures the flavors meld together beautifully.
Combining the Salad Ingredients
Use a large mixing bowl to combine the chicken, grapes, celery, and cashews. This allows for easy mixing and prevents spilling.
Mixing the Salad
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently toss to coat. Be careful not to break the chicken or grapes while mixing.
Seasoning to Taste
Feel free to enhance the flavor of the salad by adding any additional dried or fresh herbs, salt, or pepper as desired.
Serving the Salad
The salad can be enjoyed immediately or chilled before serving. It can also be used as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of yogurt for the dressing?
Yes, you can use any type of yogurt, but Greek yogurt provides a creamier texture and tanginess.
Is it necessary to add mayonnaise to the dressing?
While mayonnaise adds creaminess, it is not strictly necessary. You can substitute it with more Greek yogurt if you prefer a lighter dressing.
Can I use a different type of nut instead of cashews?
Yes, you can substitute cashews with other nuts like almonds or walnuts, based on your preference.
How long can I store the chicken salad in the refrigerator?
The chicken salad can be stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days in an airtight container.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, the salad can be made ahead of time; just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain freshness.
Conclusion
This delicious chicken salad combines the creaminess of the dressing with the crunch of celery and the sweetness of grapes. It makes for a versatile dish, perfect for any occasion, whether served alone or as a filling in sandwiches and wraps. Adjust the seasonings to match your personal taste and enjoy the harmonious blend of flavors in every bite.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chicken Salad with Apples and Walnuts
Swap out grapes for diced apples and cashews for walnuts to add a crunch and a hint of sweetness.
Curried Chicken Salad
Add curry powder to the dressing for a unique flavor twist, and include chopped almonds and diced mango for a tropical flair.
Greek Chicken Salad
Incorporate diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired twist, while keeping the dressing similar.
Spicy Chicken Salad
Mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for a spicy kick, and include chopped bell peppers for extra crunch.
Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps
Serve your chicken salad inside large lettuce leaves for a fresh, low-carb alternative to traditional sandwiches or wraps.
