Best-Ever Chicken Salad
This chicken salad is a classic dish that balances rich flavors, textures, and refreshing notes. With tender, juicy chicken and a creamy dressing, every bite is an explosion of taste and satisfaction.
Whether you’re preparing it for a picnic, a lunch at home, or a special gathering, this salad promises to be a hit. The mix of fresh vegetables, herbs, and crunchy almonds.
combines for a well-rounded and satisfying meal. It’s the perfect dish to showcase the comforting and vibrant flavors of a simple yet elegant salad..
Ingredients & Their Role
For the Chicken Salad
3 – 4 lbs of chicken parts (bone-in, skin-on thighs and breasts) – Baking the chicken with the bone and skin enhances the flavor and keeps the meat moist.
You can also use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
2 tablespoons quality olive oil – Helps lock in moisture while roasting the chicken, adding richness to the flavor.
1 cup seedless grapes (halved, red or green) – Brings natural sweetness and a refreshing contrast to the creamy texture.
1 cup almonds, thinly sliced (optional) – Adds a light crunch and nutty depth. You can substitute with pecans or walnuts.
1 celery stalk, sliced – Provides a crisp bite and subtle peppery flavor.
4 scallions, thinly sliced (white and green parts) – A mild onion flavor that doesn’t overpower the dish.
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped – Adds a burst of freshness and a hint of anise-like flavor.
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped – Brightens up the dish with an herbaceous note.
Instructions
To begin, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken parts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Drizzle with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.
Bake the chicken for about 45 minutes or until fully cooked and the skin is golden brown. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before removing the skin and bones, then shred or chop the meat into bite-sized pieces.
While the chicken is roasting, prepare the other ingredients. Halve the grapes, slice the almonds, chop the celery, and thinly.
slice the scallions. Set these ingredients aside. If using fresh herbs, chop the dill and parsley.
Once the chicken is ready and cooled slightly, combine the shredded chicken with the prepared fruits and vegetables in a large mixing bowl.
Add the almonds and toss everything together gently. You can either use your preferred creamy dressing or make a simple homemade one with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture, tossing gently to combine. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your taste. Once fully mixed, transfer the chicken salad to a serving dish.
For an added touch, sprinkle additional fresh herbs, such as dill or parsley, on top before serving. Serve immediately or refrigerate for an hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
How to Make
To make the chicken salad, start by preheating your oven and preparing the chicken. The key to a tender and flavorful base is roasting the chicken with the skin and bone intact.
Once roasted and shredded, set the chicken aside to cool slightly before mixing it with the other ingredients. The grapes and celery provide a balance of texture.
while the herbs and scallions offer a burst of flavor. Toss everything together, ensuring that the dressing coats the mixture evenly, and you’re ready to serve.
If you prefer a creamier texture, you can increase the amount of dressing to your liking. Some prefer a slightly tangier flavor, so feel free to add more lemon juice or Dijon mustard.
After assembling, chilling the salad for a bit can allow the flavors to meld, making the dish even more delicious. Garnish with extra herbs for a finishing touch.
Variations
Feel free to mix up the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences. For instance, if you want a lighter version.
you can replace the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt, creating a tangier and healthier dressing.
If you want to make the salad more filling, consider adding cooked quinoa or couscous to the mix.
This addition will make the salad more substantial and perfect as a main dish.
For a Mediterranean twist, swap the grapes with chopped cucumbers, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese.
This variation will give the salad a refreshing and salty contrast.
If you’re looking for a bit more crunch, substitute the almonds with crispy chickpeas or sunflower seeds.
Both add a different texture while still providing a satisfying crunch.
To make the dish a little sweeter, add diced apples or pears in place of the grapes for a naturally sweet flavor.
For a spicy kick, include diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce in the dressing for some heat.
Lastly, if you’re looking for a more herb-forward salad.
you could add fresh basil, thyme, or tarragon, all of which would complement the chicken and other ingredients beautifully.
Tips
To get the most flavor out of your chicken, season it generously with salt and pepper before roasting. A little extra seasoning can make a big difference in the final flavor.
Don’t skip resting the chicken after roasting. Allowing it to cool for a few minutes makes shredding easier and helps retain the juices.
If you prefer a bit of tanginess in your dressing, add a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice to balance the richness.
To make the chicken salad even creamier, you can add a small dollop of sour cream or buttermilk to the dressing.
For meal prep, store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, and it’s a perfect option for busy days.
If you’re short on time, using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Just ensure it’s shredded and you can skip the roasting step entirely.
For added flavor.
consider adding a handful of fresh spinach or mixed greens for some extra texture and nutrients.
Conclusion
This chicken salad is the epitome of comfort and freshness. With a combination of juicy chicken, crunchy almonds, sweet grapes, and flavorful herbs.
it’s a dish that will satisfy all your cravings. Perfect for a lunch, dinner, or potluck, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.
Experimenting with variations and ingredients will help you make this salad your own, and it’s versatile enough to work in any season. Whether served as a side or the main dish, this chicken salad is a delightful, wholesome choice.