Classic Chicken Salad… Elevated!
My take on the ultimate chicken salad recipe! Tender chicken, crunchy celery, & a zesty dressing make it perfect for sandwiches or crackers. A must-try!
Alright, let's dive into this chicken salad recipe ! ever had a craving for something comforting, but also, like, not boring ? yeah, me too.
That's where this recipe comes in. this isn't just any chicken salad, this is, like, the best chicken salad ever (almost!).
Chicken Salad: From Picnic Staple to Elevated Eats
Chicken salad has been around for ages, right? originally, it was posh nosh, like something you'd see at afternoon tea! think delicate and refined but nowadays most people make it at home.
This diy chicken salad recipe version is easy, taking about an hour fifteen start to finish, and makes enough for four good servings.
Classic Chicken Salad… Elevated! Recipe Card
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Why This Chicken Salad Rocks
Honestly, what makes this chicken salad special? it's not just some mayo-laden mess. it's got bright lemon, fragrant herbs, and a satisfying crunch.
Perfect for lunch, picnics, or even a light dinner. i think you should also try this with chicken salad and crackers .
It’s packed with protein, keeping you full and happy. i am sure, this chicken salad recipe will be amazing.
Get Your Gear and Grub Ready
Alright, let's gather what you need. you'll need chicken breasts, broth, mayo, mustard, lemon, herbs, celery, red onion, and nuts.
Don’t forget salt and pepper! now, a cold chicken salad sandwich sounds like a good idea?
Here's the breakdown:
- Chicken: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless breasts, 4 cups broth, salt, and pepper.
- Dressing: 1/2 cup mayo, 2 tbsp Dijon, 1 tbsp lemon juice, parsley, tarragon, celery seed, salt, and pepper.
- Salad: 1 cup diced celery, 1/2 cup diced red onion, 1/2 cup toasted nuts.
Ready to move on to the next stage of my version of Chicken Salad Recipe Costco ?
Alright, let's talk chicken salad. Honestly, finding the perfect chicken salad recipe can be tricky. You know? It needs to be just right. Not too dry, not too bland.
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Real
This is where the magic happens. Pay attention, friends. We are building to a Best Chicken Salad Ever .
Main Ingredients: The Heart of the Matter
- Chicken Breasts: 1.5 lbs (680g) . Use good quality ones.
- Chicken Broth: 4 cups (950ml) . Low sodium is key so you control the salt.
- Mayonnaise: ½ cup (120ml) . Full-fat gives the best flavour. Don’t skimp!
- Dijon Mustard: 2 tablespoons (30ml) . Adds a nice tang.
- Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon (15ml) . Freshly squeezed only. Trust me.
- Parsley: 1 tablespoon (15ml) , chopped. Fresh herbs elevate the game.
- Tarragon: 1 teaspoon (5ml) , chopped (or ½ tsp dried). This is the secret weapon!
- Celery Seed: ¼ teaspoon (1.25ml) .
- Celery: 1 cup (approx. 2 stalks), finely diced. Crunch is crucial.
- Red Onion: ½ cup (60g) , finely diced.
- Pecans or Walnuts: ½ cup (50g) , toasted, chopped. Seriously, don’t skip this.
Quality Indicators: The chicken? Get it from a good butcher. It makes a difference. For the mayo, find one you actually like the taste of.
My grandma used to say, "You can't make a silk purse out of a sow's ear." Meaning, good ingredients matter.
Seasoning Notes: Spice It Up!
Think about We Chicken Salad as a blank canvas.
- Essential Spice Combination: Salt, pepper, and celery seed. Don't underestimate them.
- Flavor Enhancers: Tarragon is the star. And fresh lemon juice.
- Aromatics: Red onion adds a subtle bite.
- Substitution Option: Dill if you're out of tarragon. But honestly, tarragon makes this Derby Chicken Salad Recipe !
I've even seen folks try a Chicken Salad Recipe Costco copies of and they end up bland so don't feel bad if you have to adjust and spice it to your liking.
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple
- Large Pot: For cooking the chicken.
- Mixing Bowls: For the dressing and the salad.
- Cutting Board: To have room to finely cut.
- Sharp Knife: Essential for dicing.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy counts.
Household Alternatives: Don't have a fancy knife? Any sharp knife will do. No measuring cups? Eyeball it! Cooking is about feeling it out sometimes. But really try for the measurements!
Important Note: Get that chicken to an internal temperature of 165° F ( 74° C) . Safety first.
This diy chicken salad recipe is so versatile. you can use chicken salad for one , or make a big batch for a party.
Serve it with chicken salad and crackers or make a cold chicken salad sandwich with pickles .
Now you have the secret. Go make this chicken salad sandwich with pickles and come back to tell me how it went.
Okay, let’s get this chicken salad recipe cracking. This is gonna be way better than that stuff you get at the deli counter. Honestly, you’ll never buy it again. Trust me!
Classic Chicken Salad… Elevated!
This ain't your nan’s bland chicken salad. we're talking tender chicken, celery, and mayo kicked up a notch with lemon, herbs, and a satisfying crunch.
Imagine that lovely chicken salad sandwich with pickles . perfect on bread, crackers, or straight from the bowl.
Prep Like a Pro: Your Mise en Place Matters
Before we even think about chicken, let's get organized. first, dice that celery and red onion. get your herbs chopped.
Then, measure out your mayo, mustard, and lemon juice. having everything ready before you start is key. honestly, it makes all the difference.
Oh my gosh, i can't forget, have your toasted pecans or walnuts ready to go to add that crunchy factor.
Step-by-Step: Chicken Salad Perfection
Follow these steps and you'll be enjoying the best chicken salad ever in no time!
- Cook the Chicken : Pop your chicken breasts in a pot with broth, salt, and pepper. Simmer until the chicken is done. About 25 minutes , or until it hits 165° F ( 74° C) .
- Cool and Shred : Remove the chicken and let it cool a tad. Then, shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces.
- Whip Up the Dressing : In a bowl, whisk together mayo, mustard, lemon juice, parsley, tarragon, celery seed, salt, and pepper.
- Combine the Goodies : In a big bowl, mix the shredded chicken, celery, red onion, and nuts (if you're using them).
- Dress It Up : Pour the dressing over the chicken mix and stir gently.
- Chill Out : Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. You know? Like a good cuppa tea needs to steep.
- Serve! : On bread, crackers, lettuce, or just grab a fork. Job's a good'un.
Pro Tips: Secrets to the Best Ever Chicken Salad
- Don't overcook the chicken . Dry chicken is sad chicken. Use a thermometer!
- Toast your nuts. This brings out so much flavor. Toast them for few minutes at 350° F ( 175° C) . Watch them carefully as they can burn very easily.
- Making it ahead? Absolutely! The chicken salad is actually better the next day. Just keep it chilled.
Okay, so that's my diy chicken salad recipe . give it a go, and let me know what you think! i am really looking forward to hearing all about your delicious cold chicken salad sandwich creation.
It makes enough for at least four, or you could create a chicken salad for one , just adjust those ingredients.
Or have the full recipe and enjoy chicken salad and crackers for a few days!
Recipe Notes for the Best Chicken Salad Ever
Right then, let's chat about some extra bits for this chicken salad recipe . It's not just about chucking ingredients together, you know? It's about making it something special! I learned a thing or two making We Chicken Salad for picnics!
Serving Suggestions: Plating and Presentation, Darling!
Honestly, presentation matters. think about it: a nicely presented cold chicken salad sandwich just tastes better. i like using croissants, makes it feel posh! or, serve it on a bed of crispy lettuce.
A dollop on crackers is always a winner too, especially for chicken salad and crackers kind of day.
For drinks? a nice glass of iced tea or lemonade goes down a treat. if you're feeling fancy, a light, crisp white wine is spot on.
I do love a chicken salad sandwich with pickles .
Storage Tips: Keep It Fresh, Love!
Pop that leftover diy chicken salad recipe in an airtight container and it'll be fine in the fridge for 3-4 days.
Anything longer, and you're pushing your luck, let me tell you. freezing? i wouldn’t recommend it, to be honest. the mayo tends to get a bit… weird.
Reheating? nah, this is a cold chicken salad sandwich kind of deal. enjoy it cold!
Variations: Tweak It to Your Taste!
Want to be a bit adventurous? try a derby chicken salad recipe twist! throw in some chopped grapes for sweetness.
Or, add a pinch of curry powder for a bit of warmth. for a lighter version, swap some of the mayo for greek yogurt.
Just remember it will change the flavour profile a little. if you have allergies, swap those nuts with sunflower seeds.
It is the best chicken salad for one .
Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite!
Right, so roughly, each serving is around 420 calories. you're getting a good chunk of protein (around 35g), some fats (28g), and a few carbs (8g).
But honestly, who counts calories when you're enjoying the best chicken salad ever ? the chicken gives you protein, and the celery and herbs offer some vitamins.
It's all about balance, isn't it?
Alright, there you have it. now go forth and make some cracking chicken salad recipe costco style that will impress everyone! don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own.
You got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does homemade chicken salad recipe last in the fridge? I hate wasting food!
Properly stored, your homemade chicken salad will generally last for 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container. Think of it like that leftover roast chicken you made on Sunday – delicious, but not for a week later!
Can I freeze this chicken salad recipe? Seems like a good way to meal prep!
Freezing chicken salad isn't generally recommended, as the mayonnaise can separate and become watery when thawed, altering the texture. However, if you really want to, consider omitting the mayo and celery before freezing, then add fresh mayo and celery after thawing. It’s a bit like trying to un-fry an egg, but sometimes you gotta do what you gotta do!
What are some good substitutions I can make in this chicken salad? I'm not a big fan of celery.
No worries, loads of people aren't keen on celery! You can easily swap it out with diced cucumber for a similar crunch, or even some finely chopped green bell pepper. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding some diced apple or grapes for a touch of sweetness, like a Waldorf salad gone rogue.
My chicken salad is always a bit bland. How can I add more flavor to my chicken salad recipe?
Flavor is key! Make sure you’re using good quality mayonnaise, and don't be shy with the herbs and spices. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten things up, and a pinch of smoked paprika can add a lovely depth. Toasting the nuts, if you're using them, really amps up their flavour too!
What's the best way to cook the chicken for chicken salad? I always seem to overcook it!
Poaching the chicken in chicken broth is a great way to keep it moist and flavorful, just like in the recipe instructions! Bring the broth to a simmer, add the chicken, and cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). A meat thermometer is your best friend here – think of it as your culinary sidekick. Overcooked chicken is the chicken salad's kryptonite.
Can I make this chicken salad recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a few hours in advance or even the day before allows the flavors to meld together even more beautifully. Just be sure to store it properly in the fridge in an airtight container. This is great news if you're planning a garden party or a cheeky picnic down the park.
