Best Ever Chicken Salad

Chicken salad is a timeless classic that never fails to deliver a burst of flavor and satisfaction. With its creamy dressing and refreshing crunch, it’s the perfect addition to sandwiches or as a topping on a bed of greens. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking for a quick meal, this Best Ever Chicken Salad is sure to become your new favorite go-to recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this chicken salad because it’s incredibly versatile and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Add crumbled bacon for a savory twist, raisins for a touch of sweetness, or cashews for a nutty crunch. A hint of curry powder in the mayo can add an exotic flavor, and using homemade mayonnaise can elevate the dish to a whole new level. Plus, once the chicken is cooked, the salad comes together in just 15 minutes!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Chopping board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk or spoon for mixing

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 4 boneless chicken breasts, cooked and chopped/shredded
• 1/2 cup onion, chopped
• 1/2 cup celery, chopped
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• 1/2 to 1 cup dried cranberries

For the Dressing:

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup vinegar
• 1 tsp. prepared mustard
• 1 tsp. salt to taste
• 1/4 tsp. pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, onion, celery, salt, and pepper.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together all the dressing ingredients: mayonnaise, sugar, vinegar, mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and mix well to ensure everything is coated evenly.
4. Add the dried cranberries just before serving to prevent the salad from turning pink.
5. Serve the chicken salad with crackers or on a bed of lettuce for a refreshing meal.

Tips for Success

• Cook the chicken and make the mayonnaise up to 3 days in advance to save time.
• Chill the salad after mixing for the best flavor, but allow it to return to room temperature before serving for optimal taste.
• If the salad seems too dry, simply add more dressing. Keep in mind that white meat tends to absorb more dressing.

Additional Tips and Variations

• For an added crunch, mix in chopped nuts such as almonds or walnuts.
• Swap out dried cranberries for grapes or apple chunks for a fruity variation.
• Experiment with different herbs like dill or parsley to add fresh flavors.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 350, Fat: 22g, Carbohydrates: 18g, Protein: 20g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use rotisserie chicken? Yes, rotisserie chicken works great in this recipe and saves time on cooking.

How long does chicken salad last in the refrigerator? It can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze chicken salad? It’s not recommended to freeze chicken salad as the mayonnaise may separate when thawed.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoy making and savoring this Best Ever Chicken Salad as much as we do! It’s a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. We’d love to hear about your experience and any creative variations you try. Share your thoughts and photos with us!