Chicken salad is one of those foods that I could eat endlessly without getting bored. Classic, flavorful, and protein-packed, chicken salad goes well in any form: sandwiches, wraps, large lettuce leaves, or even eaten plain. There are a lot of chicken salad recipes out there, but I think this one is the best.
the Daring Gourmet
Who makes better versions of traditional recipes than Southern Living, who came up with this one? My guess is no. Use whatever extra chicken you may have on hand to whip up this delicious dish. Make use of any fresh chicken breasts you happen to have on hand, or another option.
Amanda’s Cookin’ is the source.
Chopped celery, red grapes, and dried cranberries give this chicken salad dish a wonderful range of tastes and just the right amount of crunch. The beauty of chicken salad is how adaptable it is to personal taste. Whatever you see fit, feel free to add or remove ingredients.
Southern Living is the source.
Let me cut to the chase: if you want to see the whole Southern Living recipe, go here. This chicken salad recipe is sure to please whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or preparing a large quantity to share at a family reunion. Have fun.
Storing Chicken Salad:
- Refrigerator:
- Short-Term Storage (Up to 3-4 Days): Place the chicken salad in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. Make sure the salad is kept at or below 40°F (4°C) to prevent bacterial growth.
- Freezer:
- Long-Term Storage (Not Recommended): Chicken salad generally does not freeze well, as ingredients like mayonnaise or dairy can separate or become watery upon thawing. However, if you must freeze it, do so in an airtight container and use within 1-2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before use.
Tips:
- Avoid Storing for Too Long: Fresh chicken salad should be consumed within a few days for optimal flavor and safety.
- Keep Ingredients Separate: If possible, store any added ingredients (like nuts or fruits) separately and mix them in just before serving to maintain texture and freshness.
The nutritional content of chicken salad can vary widely depending on the recipe and ingredients used. Here’s a general estimate for a typical serving of chicken salad (about 1 cup):
- Calories: 250-400 kcal
- Total Fat: 15-25 grams
- Saturated Fat: 3-6 grams
- Cholesterol: 60-90 mg
- Sodium: 300-600 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 5-15 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 1-3 grams
- Sugars: 2-5 grams
- Protein: 20-30 grams
These values can change based on factors such as the amount and type of mayonnaise or other dressings, any added ingredients (like fruits, nuts, or cheese), and the portion size. For precise nutritional information, it’s best to use specific ingredient amounts and recipes.