Chicken salad is a versatile and delicious dish made from cooked chicken mixed with a variety of ingredients and typically bound together with a dressing like mayonnaise. It is commonly served as a main course, in sandwiches, or as a side dish. Here’s a simple step-by-step process for making a classic chicken salad:
Ingredients:
- Cooked chicken 2 Cups, diced or shredded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup grapes or dried cranberries (optional, for sweetness)
- 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional: almonds or walnuts)
Instructions:
- Cook the Chicken:
- Poach or grill the chicken breasts until fully cooked, then let them cool.
- Once cooled, dice or shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Prepare Vegetables and Add-ins:
- Chop celery, onion, parsley, grapes (if using), and nuts into small pieces.
- Mix the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken, celery, onions, parsley, grapes, and nuts.
- Add Dressing:
- In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard (optional), lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Combine and Adjust:
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add more mayo, salt, or pepper if desired.
- Chill:
- For best flavor, refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Serve:
- Enjoy on its own, in a sandwich, or with crackers!
Feel free to customize with additional ingredients like avocado, bacon, or fresh herbs!
