Introduction
This delicious chicken salad recipe is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a summer picnic, a casual lunch, or a quick dinner. With tender chicken thighs, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful dressing, it’s a crowd-pleaser that is both satisfying and nutritious. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the steps to create this delightful dish.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
2 tablespoons olive oil
½ teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved or chopped
1 cup sweet corn kernels (raw, grilled, cooked, or frozen)
⅓ cup sliced scallions
¼ cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
¼ cup mayonnaise
1½ tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
¼ teaspoon liquid smoke
Pinch of salt
Pinch of freshly ground black pepper
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6
This vibrant chicken salad is sure to impress with its combination of flavors and textures. Enjoy it on croissants or toast with a side of fresh greens for a complete meal. Don’t forget, any leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for about 3 days, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Grill
Preheat the grill to its highest setting.
Season the Chicken
Season the chicken thighs with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and garlic powder. Brush them with olive oil.
Grill the Chicken
Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6 minutes per side. Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 15 minutes. After resting, cube or shred the chicken.
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cubed or shredded chicken, halved or chopped cherry tomatoes, sweet corn kernels, sliced scallions, and grated sharp cheddar cheese. Toss the mixture together.
Prepare the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the plain Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, freshly squeezed lemon juice, liquid smoke, a pinch of salt, and a pinch of freshly ground black pepper until smooth.
Mix the Salad
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss well to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
Serve the Chicken Salad
Serve the chicken salad on croissants or toast, accompanied by lettuce or microgreens.
Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator; the salad remains fresh for about 3 days and its flavor enhances over time.
Notes
Choosing Chicken
Boneless, skinless chicken thighs provide a tender and juicy texture, but you can substitute with boneless, skinless chicken breasts if desired, cooking them until fully done.
Grill Alternatives
If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan or bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F for 25-30 minutes.
Vegetable Variations
Feel free to customize the salad by adding other vegetables such as bell peppers, cucumbers, or avocados for additional flavor and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
For added crunch, consider serving the salad with chips or crackers alongside the croissants or toast.
Make-Ahead Tips
This salad can be made ahead of time; just give it a stir before serving to redistribute the dressing and ingredients.
Cook techniques
Grilling Chicken
Grilling chicken thighs brings out a rich flavor, especially when cooked at a high temperature. Ensure the grill is preheated to its highest setting for optimal searing and to lock in moisture.
Letting Chicken Rest
After grilling, it’s essential to let the chicken rest for about 15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meat when cubed or shredded.
Mise en Place
Before starting, prepare all your ingredients. Chop the cherry tomatoes, sweet corn, and scallions ahead of time. This makes the assembly of the chicken salad smooth and efficient.
Combining Ingredients
When mixing the chicken, vegetables, and cheese, gently toss the ingredients to maintain the integrity of the cherry tomatoes and avoid mushing them.
Making the Dressing
For a creamy dressing, whisk the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and seasonings until smooth. This mixture should be well-integrated for even flavor throughout the salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken salad on croissants or toast, layered with fresh lettuce or microgreens for added crunch and freshness.
FAQ
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but you may need to adjust the cooking time as they tend to cook faster and can dry out if overcooked.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for about 3 days, and the flavors may actually enhance over time.
Can I use frozen corn kernels?
Yes, frozen corn works well. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the salad.
What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?
You can use sour cream or a dairy-free yogurt alternative if you prefer, though the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
Is liquid smoke necessary in the dressing?
While it adds a smoky flavor, it’s not essential. You can omit it or substitute it with smoked paprika for a similar taste.
Conclusion
This chicken salad with cherry tomatoes, sweet corn, and a creamy dressing is a delightful dish that blends various flavors and textures. It’s perfect for a light meal or a picnic. The combination of juicy chicken, fresh veggies, and tangy sauce makes it a satisfying option that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be stored for later, enhancing its taste over time.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chicken and Avocado Salad
Mix grilled chicken with diced avocado, lime juice, cilantro, and mixed greens for a refreshing twist.
Mexican Street Corn Chicken Wrap
Combine the chicken salad with cotija cheese, cilantro, and chili powder; serve it in a tortilla wrap for a Mexican-inspired meal.
Quinoa Chicken Bowl
Layer the chicken mixture over a bed of quinoa, adding black beans, diced bell peppers, and a squeeze of lime for extra flavor.
Pasta Salad with Chicken and Veggies
Toss the chicken salad with cooked pasta, spinach, olives, and Italian dressing for a hearty pasta dish.
Grilled Chicken Sandwich
Serve the chicken salad between slices of crusty bread with arugula and sliced tomatoes for a delicious sandwich option.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Fill halved bell peppers with the chicken salad mixture, top with cheese, and bake until the peppers are tender for a nutritious meal.
