carol’s chicken salad

carol’s chicken salad

Are you ready to make the most scrumptious chicken salad? I love this recipe as it’s creamy, crunchy, and just the right mix of flavors! Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a delicious dish for a gathering, this chicken salad will impress everyone—trust me, you won’t want to miss out on this one!

Cook Time:
Prep Time: 20
Yields: 9
Calories: 293

Simple Ingredients for Delicious Chicken Salad

to whip up the perfect chicken salad, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll gather before we dive into the kitchen:

  • 3 cups diced, cooked chicken breast

Use leftover rotisserie chicken or poach your chicken breasts until tender.

  • ½ cup mayonnaise

A creamy base that brings everything together. If you prefer a lighter version, use Greek yogurt rather.

  • ½ teaspoon salt

Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

  • ¾ teaspoon poultry seasoning

this blend of herbs adds depth. You can substitute with thyme or sage for a twist.

  • ¼ teaspoon onion powder

For a slight punch in flavor.

  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

Gives the salad a savory touch.

  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Adjust according to your taste preference.

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Freshens up the dish and balances the creaminess.

  • ½ cup finely chopped celery

Adds a delightful crunch and freshness.

  • ½ cup chopped green onions

Thay bring in a mild onion flavor that brightens up the mix.

  • 1 (8-ounce) can water chestnuts, drained and chopped

For an extra crunch that makes the texture exciting.

  • 1 ½ cups diced Swiss cheese

Melts in your mouth and complements the chicken.

  • 1 ½ cups halved green grapes

Sweet and juicy bites that contrast wonderfully with the savory elements.

Gather these ingredients, and we’ll create a chicken salad that’s full of flavor and texture—perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or just on its own!

Easy Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Chicken Salad

Ready to make that delicious chicken salad? Follow these simple steps for a fantastic result:

  1. Prepare the dressing: In a medium bowl, add the mayonnaise, salt, poultry seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth and well combined. Then, mix in the lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
  1. Combine the main ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss together the diced chicken, chopped celery, green onions, water chestnuts, Swiss cheese, and grapes. Make sure everything is mixed evenly.
  1. Add the dressing: Pour the creamy dressing over the chicken mixture. Using a spatula, gently fold everything together until all the ingredients are coated with the dressing.
  1. Chill: Transfer your chicken salad into a serving bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This time allows the flavors to meld deliciously.
  1. Serve: once chilled, give it a quick stir before serving. You can enjoy it in a sandwich, wrap it in lettuce leaves, or simply serve it in a bowl with crackers on the side.

And ther you go! You’ve made a delightful chicken salad that’s not only tasty but also a breeze to prepare. Enjoy your creation!

 carol's chicken salad

Serving and Storage Information for Chicken Salad

Now that you’ve made this delightful chicken salad, let’s talk about how to serve it and keep it fresh. This salad is incredibly versatile, making it perfect for various occasions.

When it comes to serving,you can enjoy this chicken salad in several ways:

  • Sandwiches or Wraps: Spread a generous amount on your favorite bread or wrap it in lettuce for a low-carb option.
  • Salad Bowl: Serve it on a bed of greens to create a refreshing main dish.
  • Appetizer with Crackers: Scoop some onto whole-grain crackers or pita chips for a light snack.

Storage is key to maintaining the flavor and freshness. Once you’ve prepared your chicken salad, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. Just remember to give it a good stir before serving again, as the ingredients may settle.

If you want to prepare ahead, you can make the chicken salad a day in advance. This gives the flavors a chance to meld, resulting in an even tastier dish. Though, it’s best to wait to add any crunchy ingredients—like celery or water chestnuts—until just before serving to keep them crisp.

Helpful Recipe Notes and Troubleshooting for Chicken Salad

Creating the perfect chicken salad may seem straightforward, but having a few tips and tricks can elevate your dish. Here are some helpful notes and troubleshooting advice:

  • Chicken: If you’re unsure about cooking chicken, poaching it in seasoned water (with herbs and a bit of salt) is an easy method. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s cooked through.
  • Texture Variations: For an extra crunch,feel free to experiment with different ingredients. Adding chopped pecans or almonds can provide a delightful contrast to the creamy base.
  • Dressing Consistency: If your dressing is to thick, you can thin it out with a little bit of milk or additional lemon juice until it reaches your desired consistency.
  • Flavor Adjustment: If you feel your chicken salad is lacking flavor, try adding a tad more lemon juice, salt, or even a splash of hot sauce for a kick!
  • Grapes Substitute: If you don’t have grapes on hand or prefer a different flavor, diced apples or mandarin oranges work wonderfully as alternatives.

By keeping these notes in mind, you’re well on your way to making a chicken salad that’s not only delicious but also tailored to your tastes. Enjoy your culinary creation!