The Best Chicken Salad Recipe

The Best Chicken Salad recipe stands out as a quintessential blend of creamy textures, tangy flavors, and satisfying crunch that elevates the humble chicken salad to an entirely new level of deliciousness. This recipe cleverly combines the richness of mayonnaise with the tanginess of plain Greek yogurt and Dijon mustard, creating a perfect dressing that clings to every piece of chicken. The addition of dried cranberries adds a sweet tartness, while the chopped pecans provide a delightful crunch. The diced Granny Smith apple introduces a fresh, slightly sour component, balancing the overall flavor profile. Served on its own or nestled in a soft croissant with baby spinach leaves, this chicken salad transcends the ordinary, making it a versatile dish suitable for any meal or occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons of plain Greek yogurt
• 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
• ¼ teaspoon of onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 2 tablespoons dried cranberries
• 3 tablespoons of chopped pecans
• ¼ cup diced Granny Smith apple
• 10 ounces (1 can) chicken breast, drained, cut into pieces
• Baby spinach leaves (optional)
• 4 croissants or soft rolls (optional)

Preparation

Step 1: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, start by combining the mayonnaise, plain Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, onion powder, kosher salt, and pepper. This mixture will serve as the base of your dressing. Stir these ingredients together until they are well combined and smooth. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if necessary, ensuring it perfectly suits your palate.

Step 2: To the bowl with your dressing, gently fold in the dried cranberries, chopped pecans, and diced Granny Smith apple. These ingredients introduce a variety of textures and flavors that complement the creamy base exceptionally well.

Step 3: Add the drained, cut pieces of chicken breast to the bowl. Using a spoon or spatula, mix the chicken with the other ingredients until it's evenly coated with the dressing. Be gentle to keep the chicken pieces intact while ensuring they're thoroughly mixed with the fruits, nuts, and creamy dressing.

Step 4: Once your chicken salad is ready, you have the option to serve it in a few different ways. For a simple, low-carb option, enjoy the salad as it is. The rich flavors and varied textures make it a satisfying meal on its own.

Step 5: Alternatively, for a more traditional sandwich, spoon a generous amount of chicken salad onto a sliced croissant. If you're using them, add a few baby spinach leaves for a fresh, crispy contrast to the creamy salad. This method transforms the salad into a hearty meal, perfect for lunch or a light dinner.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile chicken salad can be enjoyed in several delightful ways. Aside from serving it on croissants or soft rolls, consider scooping it atop a bed of mixed greens for a low-carb option or stuffing it into ripe avocado halves for a keto-friendly meal. It's also perfect as a filling for wraps or as a topping for a slice of toasted artisan bread.

Tips

• To enhance the chicken's flavor, consider using leftover grilled or roasted chicken breast instead of canned chicken. This can add a deeper flavor profile to your salad.
• If you prefer a crunchier texture, add the pecans and apples just before serving to maintain their crispness.
• For an extra kick of flavor, consider adding a small amount of chopped fresh herbs, such as dill or parsley.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 0 minutes

Total Time: 10 minutes

Nutritional Information

While specific nutritional values can vary, here's an approximate guideline for a serving of chicken salad without the croissant:

• Calories: 200-250 kcal
• Protein: 15-20 g
• Sodium: 200-300 mg

These values are approximate and can vary based on the exact ingredients used and serving sizes.

The Best Chicken Salad recipe is a testament to the joy of mixing simple ingredients to create a dish that is both flavorful and satisfying. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch, a picnic staple, or a light dinner option, this chicken salad is sure to impress with its perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and tangy elements. Its versatility in serving options further ensures that it can be enjoyed in a variety of settings and dietary preferences, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.