The Ultimate Chicken Salad with Grapes a Sweet Savory Delight
Recipe Introduction
Ever find yourself craving something proper tasty and easy? Do you think what is the best chicken salad recipe with grapes that your colleagues eat at work ? I've got just the ticket.
This chicken salad is anything but boring.
A Twist on a Classic
This recipe is inspired by the classic British Coronation Chicken. But this chicken salad with grapes brings in some American flair.
We're aiming for a sweet and savory chicken salad , with a hit of freshness.
This easy chicken salad recipe is perfect for a light lunch or a picnic. It's incredibly easy, taking only about 1 hour 15 minutes. This recipe makes enough for 4-6 servings.
Why You'll Love This Chicken Salad
It's packed with protein and healthy fats. The grapes add a touch of sweetness. It's a great way to use leftover chicken.
Honestly, it’s the perfect dish for a chicken salad lunch during a hot summer day.
This recipe is special because it combines familiar flavors. It has a slight zing from the Dijon mustard and lemon.
It’s seriously yummy. Now, let's dive into what you'll need for this chicken salad with celery and pecans!
Let's dive into what you'll need to make the best chicken salad recipe with grapes. I'm telling you, this ain't your average chicken salad.
Get ready for a taste sensation. This easy chicken salad recipe is about to blow your mind.
Ingredients & Equipment
Alright, let's gather our troops. It's all about fresh ingredients and a few handy tools. We are creating a classic chicken salad with a twist.
Main Ingredients
- Chicken: 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken. Seriously, good quality chicken makes all the difference. You want it juicy, not rubbery. We want a healthy chicken salad recipe .
- Grapes: 1 cup (150g) red grapes, halved or quartered. They add a sweet pop.
- Celery: 1/2 cup (50g) finely diced celery. Crunch is key for chicken salad with celery .
- Pecans: 1/2 cup (50g) toasted, chopped pecans. They bring a nutty depth to our chicken salad with pecans . Toasting is essential!
- Red Onion: 1/4 cup (15g) finely minced red onion (optional). It can add a bit of bite.
- Parsley: 2 tbsp (30ml) fresh parsley, chopped.
- Tarragon: 1 tbsp (15ml) fresh tarragon, chopped (optional). Oh my gosh, the tarragon is the secret weapon! Don't skip this in your gourmet chicken salad .
Seasoning Notes
This is where the magic happens. We need to build a creamy chicken salad dressing .
- Mayo & Yogurt: 1/2 cup (120ml) mayo, 2 tbsp (30ml) Greek yogurt. The yogurt adds tang.
- Lemon Juice: 1 tbsp (15ml) fresh lemon juice. It brightens everything up.
- Dijon Mustard: 1 tsp (5ml) Dijon mustard. Adds a bit of zing.
- Salt & Pepper: 1/4 tsp (1.25ml) salt, 1/8 tsp (0.6ml) pepper. Adjust to taste.
- Cayenne: A pinch of cayenne pepper (optional). Just a hint of warmth. Honestly, the right seasoning combo can transform the best chicken salad recipe into something unforgettable.
Equipment Needed
Don't stress too much about fancy gear. Here's what you really need to make chicken salad .
Large pot or skillet for cooking the chicken.
Large mixing bowl.
Cutting board and sharp knife. Obviously.
Measuring cups and spoons. You know, sometimes I just eyeball it. But measurements are a good starting point, right? Plus this makes a fantastic chicken salad sandwich recipe !
Now, let's get cooking! Think about how you can use the above to make chicken salad . I can't wait to share the full recipe with you and create the best chicken salad recipe !
The Best Chicken Salad Recipe With Grapes: It's a Game Changer!
Honestly, folks, forget everything you thought you knew about chicken salad . This isn’t your average bland mixture. This is The Ultimate Chicken Salad with Grapes , a sweet and savory chicken salad sensation that'll blow your mind.
I'm talking succulent chicken, juicy grapes, crunchy celery and pecans. All swimming in a creamy, dreamy dressing. I remember the first time I made this for a picnic.
The bowl was empty in minutes!
Prep Like a Pro
Essential mise en place: Get everything chopped and measured before you even turn on the heat. This is key for a smooth cooking experience.
Dice your celery. Halve your grapes. And chop those pecans.
Time saving organization tips: If you're short on time, use rotisserie chicken. It’s a brilliant shortcut. Alternatively, cook the chicken the day before.
This saves so much time on the day you want to make the actual salad.
Safety reminders: Always wash your hands before handling food. And be careful when chopping those veggies! No one wants a trip to A&E.
Easy Steps for Epic Chicken Salad with Celery
- Cook the chicken : Get your 1.5 lbs of chicken breasts cooked. Either poach or pan-sear till it hits 165° F . It's about 25- 30 minutes .
- Shred or dice : Once cooled, shred or dice it up.
- Combine : Throw in 1 cup of grapes, 1/2 cup of celery, 1/2 cup of pecans, 1/4 cup of red onion (optional), plus the herbs.
- Make the dressing : Whisk together 1/2 cup of mayo, 2 tbsp of Greek yogurt, 1 tbsp of lemon juice, and 1 tsp of Dijon. Don't forget the salt and pepper!
- Dress it up : Gently fold the dressing into the chicken and grape mix. Chill for at least 30 minutes . This is very important for all of the flavours to meld and taste the best.
Pro Tips for Next Level Chicken Salad
Toast those pecans! Seriously. It adds a nutty depth you won't believe.
Don't drown the chicken. Add the dressing gradually. You want it creamy, not soup.
make-ahead? Absolutely! This actually tastes better the next day. Just keep it in the fridge. You know? This makes it a perfect candidate for chicken salad meal prep .
This classic chicken salad recipe is just the starting point. Feel free to experiment with chicken salad variations . How about chicken salad with pecans ? Or even a chicken salad with tarragon ? The possibilities are endless! Honestly, this will become your go-to easy chicken salad recipe in no time.
I am so sure that you will make this your favorite chicken salad sandwich recipe .
Recipe Notes for Your Best Chicken Salad Recipe
This easy chicken salad recipe isn't just a recipe, it's a starting point. It's about crafting the perfect chicken salad lunch . Let's dive into the nitty gritty.
Serving Suggestions: Plating like a Pro
Right, so you've got this amazing creamy chicken salad . Now what? Don't just plonk it on a plate! Think presentation.
How about serving it on mini chicken salad sandwich recipe croissants? Or, for a healthier vibe, pile it high in crisp lettuce cups.
A side of colourful coleslaw or a simple tomato salad complements it perfectly. Oh, and a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio? Chef's kiss.
It elevates that chicken salad on croissant to a whole new level of experience. Honestly, you will transform the most humble picnic chicken salad .
Storage Tips: Keepin' it Fresh
Leftover homemade chicken salad ? No worries! Pop it in an airtight container and it'll happily chill in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing? Maybe not the best idea, the mayo can get a bit weird and separate upon thawing. When reheating, give it a good stir to bring it back to its creamy glory.
For your chicken salad meal prep , pack it separately from your bread or crackers to prevent sogginess.
Variations: Unleash Your Inner Chef
Feeling adventurous? Let's talk chicken salad variations . Got some leftover cranberries? Throw them in for a sweet and tangy twist.
Want a healthy chicken salad recipe ? Swap the mayo for avocado. It is easy to create a sweet and savory chicken salad .
You know? If it is autumn season, try swapping grapes for chopped apples. If you are feeling sophisticated, you can always create a gourmet chicken salad with a touch of truffle oil.
Remember, this is about your chicken salad ingredients , your taste, your masterpiece.
Nutrition Basics: Fuel Your Body
Okay, let's be real. Classic chicken salad isn't exactly a health food, but it can be part of a balanced diet.
Chicken is packed with protein, which is great for building muscle and keeping you feeling full. The celery and grapes add some vitamins and fibre.
But watch out for that mayonnaise. It's high in fat. So, maybe use light mayo or Greek yogurt to cut down on the calories.
So there you have it. With these notes, you're all set to make the best chicken salad recipe with ease.
Don't be afraid to experiment and have fun with it!. Now go and make some culinary magic, you've got this!.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best way to cook the chicken for this best chicken salad recipe with grapes? Should I boil it like my mum used to?
While boiling works in a pinch, poaching or pan-searing are superior! Poaching keeps the chicken incredibly moist, while pan-searing adds a touch of delicious browning. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) no matter which method you choose to avoid that dreaded dry chicken.
Trust me, it's worth the extra effort for a top-notch salad.
Can I make this chicken salad ahead of time? Like, a day before my picnic?
Absolutely! In fact, I highly recommend it. The flavors in this best chicken salad recipe with grapes really meld together when given time to sit in the fridge. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container and give it a good stir before serving. It should last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
I'm not a huge fan of grapes. Are there any other fruits I could use in this chicken salad?
No worries, you've got options! Diced apple (Granny Smith for tartness!), dried cranberries, or even mandarin orange segments would all be delightful substitutes for the grapes. Just be sure to choose something that offers a bit of sweetness and juiciness to balance out the other flavors.
Think of it as your chance to put your own spin on this classic!
I'm trying to be a bit healthier. Can I lighten up the dressing in this best chicken salad recipe with grapes?
Definitely! Swap out some of the mayonnaise for plain Greek yogurt to add tang and cut down on the fat. You could even use light mayonnaise. A squeeze of extra lemon juice can also brighten the flavour and reduce the need for as much mayo. Small changes can make a big difference!
What kind of nuts work best in this chicken salad recipe? I'm all out of pecans.
Pecans are classic, but walnuts or almonds are fantastic alternatives. Toasting them beforehand really brings out their flavour and adds a lovely crunch. If you have a nut allergy, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds are great substitutions.
Just remember to chop them into smaller pieces for even distribution in the salad.
Help! My chicken salad tastes a little bland. What can I do to liven it up?
A flavour pick-me-up is easy! A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten everything. A pinch more salt and pepper, or even a dash of cayenne pepper, can add some much needed zing. Don't be afraid to taste and adjust the seasoning until it's singing in your mouth - you could even add a touch more Dijon mustard!
The Ultimate Chicken Salad With Grapes A Sweet S
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 350-450 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 20-30g |
| Fiber | 2-3g |
