Grandma Bettys Sunshine Chicken Salad

Grandma Betty's Sunshine Chicken Salad: A Sweet Treat!

Fancy a trip down memory lane? Ever had a sweet chicken salad recipe that just hits the spot? This Grandma Betty's chicken salad is pure sunshine.

Trust me, it's next level delicious. It is also a easy chicken salad recipe .

Why This Chicken Salad Is the Bee's Knees

This recipe isn't just food. It’s a hug in a bowl. It’s a classic chicken salad with grapes , almonds, and a hint of sweetness.

Almond chicken salad is a crowd pleaser for sure. A perfect summer chicken salad , I must add.

This recipe is a tribute to simpler times. We are talking about a classic American comfort food. It's perfect for a quick lunch.

The recipe is easy peasy, and takes less than an hour, including chilling time. It makes enough for 4-6 lucky people.

This Ain't Your Average Chicken Salad, Mate!

Honestly, this sweet chicken salad recipe is a vitamin powerhouse. The grapes are packed with antioxidants and the chicken provides lean protein.

You know, good stuff for your body. It is perfect for picnics or a light supper. It can be put in a chicken salad croissant with some fresh lettuce.

What sets it apart is the balance of sweet and savory. The honey mustard dressing, is just divine.

What You'll Need: Ingredients Ahoy!

1.5 lbs of chicken is the foundation for the filling salad. Then, 1 cup each of red grapes and diced celery will provide flavour and texture.

A little bit of onion with 1/2 cup of toasted almonds will add more complexity to the best chicken salad recipe you've ever tried.

Let's get the ball rolling with the shopping!

Ingredients & Equipment

Alright, let's dive into what you'll need for Grandma Betty's Sunshine sweet chicken salad recipe . It's a sweet chicken salad that’s gonna make your taste buds sing! Honestly, it's so easy.

Think of this as our little secret, okay?

Main Ingredients: The Sunshine Squad

For the chicken, you'll need 1.5 lbs (680g) of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. A good quality chicken will make all the difference.

Grab some that looks nice and pink. You also need 1 tsp (5g) of salt and ½ tsp (2.5g) of pepper.

Don't forget 1 tbsp (15ml) of olive oil.

Next, for the salad itself, grab 1 cup (115g) of red grapes. Halve them if they're small. Quarter 'em if they're massive.

Then, get 1 cup (120g) of celery, finely diced. Also, ½ cup (50g) of toasted sliced almonds. Toasting is key, trust me! A lil zing? ¼ cup (40g) of red onion.

And finally, the dressing. ½ cup (120g) of mayonnaise. Full fat or light is your call. Then, 2 tbsp (30g) of Greek yogurt or sour cream.

Also, 2 tbsp (30ml) of honey. Or maple syrup if you're feeling fancy. 1 tbsp (15ml) of lemon juice, ½ tsp (2.

5g) Dijon mustard, and ¼ tsp (1.25g) paprika. Don't forget salt and pepper to taste! This simple chicken salad recipe is divine!

Seasoning Notes: The Flavour Boosters

For this honey mustard chicken salad , the Dijon mustard is key. It adds a bit of tanginess. Paprika gives it a smoky depth.

If you are out of dijion mustard, you could use yellow mustard instead. Just add a touch of honey and lemon juice to balance it out.

Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple

You only need a few bits and bobs. A large skillet or pot for cooking the chicken. A large mixing bowl for tossing it all together.

A cutting board, a chef's knife, and measuring cups and spoons. You probably already have this, right? This makes it an easy chicken salad recipe .

If you don’t have a proper skillet, a regular frying pan will do just fine. And if you don't have measuring spoons, don't stress.

Just eyeball it, darling! That's what Grandma Betty would have done for her grandma betty's chicken salad .

Alright, let’s dive into making Grandma Betty's sweet chicken salad recipe ! Honestly, this isn’t just any chicken salad recipe .

Think of it like a sunshiney picnic in a bowl. It is perfectly balanced with a touch of sweetness. Even Mary Berry would give it a thumbs up.

Seriously!

Prep Like a Pro for Sweet Chicken Salad

Essential Mise en Place for Grandma Betty's Sweet Chicken Salad

First things first, let's get everything ready. Chop your grapes , dice that celery (and optional red onion, if you're feeling fancy).

Then measure out all those dressing ingredients. Got it? Good. It's all about setting yourself up for success.

Time Saving Tips (Because We're All Busy!)

Okay, here's a cheeky shortcut. If you are short on time, Use pre-cooked chicken. Rotisserie chicken is your best friend here.

Just shred it up. Bam! Also, toast those almonds ahead of time. This will saves a lot of time later on.

step-by-step: Crafting the Best Sweet Chicken Salad Recipe

1. Cook the Chicken (Unless You Cheated!)

Season those chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Then cook them in a skillet with olive oil over medium heat until the internal temperature hits 165° F ( 74° C) .

Remember to use a meat thermometer. This will avoid serving undercooked chicken. Alternatively, bake or poach them. Poaching is the real OG method for the best chicken salad recipe

2. Shred It or Dice It - Your Call!

Once the chicken has cooled, shred or dice it into bite sized pieces. I prefer dicing. It gives a nicer texture, you know?

3. Combine the Goodies

Throw the chicken, grapes, celery, almonds (and red onion, if you're using it) into a large bowl. It's time to mix all those ingredients up.

4. Whip Up That Dressing!

In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, honey, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and paprika. Don't forget that salt and pepper. This honey mustard chicken salad is the real deal.

5. Dress It Up!

Pour the dressing over the chicken and salad ingredients. Gently stir until everything is coated. Don't drown it!

6. Chill Out (Literally!)

Cover the bowl and chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes . Honestly, this is crucial. The flavours need to meld, like old friends catching up.

7. Serve and Enjoy Your Almond Chicken Salad !

Serve it on croissants, lettuce cups, or just eat it with a spoon. Whatever floats your boat! This chicken salad croissant is divine.

Pro Tips for a Next Level Chicken Salad

Secret Weapon: Toast Those Almonds!

Toasting the almonds is a game changer. Trust me. Bake them at 350° F ( 175° C) for just 5- 7 minutes .

Watch them carefully so they don't burn. That toasty flavour is incredible.

Common Mistake: Overdressing

Don't overdo it with the dressing. Add it gradually, mixing as you go. It should be coated, not swimming.

make-ahead Magic

You can totally make this ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge for up to 2 days . The flavours will only get better.

Honestly, that's why it's the easy chicken salad recipe

This summer chicken salad is perfect for picnics, lunchboxes, or even a light dinner. I hope you love this sweet chicken salad as much as I do!. Bon appétit!

Recipe Notes

This sweet chicken salad recipe is more than just food. Honestly, it is a hug in a bowl. I remember Grandma Betty always making it for our summer picnics.

It's the best chicken salad recipe , hands down!

Serving Suggestions: Plating Like a Pro

This almond chicken salad is just begging to be served beautifully. I always feel like it needs something special. You know?

• Think posh! Pile it high on a flaky chicken salad croissant . It is so good.
• Get fancy! Serve it in crisp lettuce cups for a light bite. Garnish with extra almonds!
• Side dish superstars! Pair it with a light green salad, or even a bowl of tomato soup. A glass of iced tea? Perfect!

Storage Tips: Keeping it Fresh

Nobody wants soggy chicken salad. Follow these tips!

• Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days . Honestly, it never lasts that long in my house.
• Freezing isn't really recommended. Mayonnaise can get weird. Trust me on this.
• Reheating isn't an option (it's a salad!). Just grab it straight from the fridge.

Variations: Making it Your Own

Want to tweak Grandma Betty's chicken salad ? Go for it! It is flexible.

• Dietary twist! For a lower carb version, use a sugar-free sweetener. Use low-carb mayonnaise.
• Seasonal swap! Instead of grapes, try chopped apples in the fall. Adds a nice autumnal touch.

Nutrition Basics: Goodness Inside

Let's break down what you're eating. It's tasty and reasonably good for you. According to estimates, each serving of this chicken salad with grapes contains 450 calories, 35g protein, 28g fat, 15g carbohydrates, and 10g sugar.

• Protein Power! Chicken is a great source of lean protein.
• Vitamins and fiber! Celery and grapes add vitamins and fiber.
• Healthy fats! Almonds provide healthy fats, too.

So there you have it. My little notes to help you nail this easy chicken salad recipe . Don't be shy to experiment.

It is almost impossible to mess up. Give it a go. You'll be making honey mustard chicken salad like a pro in no time! This summer chicken salad is going to be your new go-to, I can feel it!