Easy Chicken Salad Recipe No Celery Youll Love
Chicken salad recipe no celery offers a delightful twist on a classic, focusing on fresh flavors and satisfying textures for a lighter, brighter taste.
Equipment
- The following kitchen tools are recommended for preparing the chicken salad recipe no celery:
- Cutting board
- Chef's knife
- mixing bowls (medium and large),
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Optional: Food processor (for dicing chicken)
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup toasted slivered almonds
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Chicken: If starting with raw chicken, cook it first. Poach, bake, or grill the chicken until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165F). Allow it to cool slightly, then dice into bite-sized pieces. Alternatively, use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined. This forms the creamy base of the chicken salad.
- Step 3: Mix Chicken and Other Ingredients: Add the diced chicken, red onion, dried cranberries, toasted almonds, and parsley to the bowl with the dressing. Gently fold all the ingredients together until evenly coated. Avoid overmixing to maintain the texture of the chicken and other components.
- Step 4: Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for enhancing the overall taste. Serve the chicken salad on croissants, lettuce wraps, crackers, or as a topping for a green salad. Optional Tips: For a tangier flavor, add a splash of apple cider vinegar. For a spicier kick, incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes. Substitute pecans or walnuts for almonds. Diced apple can also be added.
Notes
Variations
This chicken salad recipe no celery can be adapted in several ways to suit different preferences and dietary needs:
- Ingredient Swaps: Sunflower seeds or chopped walnuts can substitute for almonds for those with nut allergies. Diced green bell pepper provides a subtle crunch and a slightly different flavor profile. Plain yogurt can replace all of the mayonnaise.
- Regional Twists: A Southwestern variation includes a dash of chili powder and a squeeze of lime juice. A Mediterranean take might incorporate sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese.
- Dietary Adjustments: For a lower-carb version, serve in lettuce cups or with cucumber slices instead of bread or crackers. To make it dairy-free, use a plant-based mayonnaise substitute. For those seeking more protein, adding a hard-boiled egg can enhance the nutritional profile.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken salad no celery is a versatile dish suitable for various occasions. It can be served:
- As a sandwich filling in croissants or whole-wheat bread for a quick lunch.
- As an appetizer with assorted crackers or baguette slices.
- On a bed of mixed greens for a light and refreshing salad.
- As a filling for stuffed tomatoes or bell peppers for an elegant presentation.
- As part of a picnic or potluck spread.
Storage Tips
To preserve freshness and flavor, store the chicken salad no celery properly:
- Transfer the salad to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate immediately after preparation.
- It is best consumed within 3-4 days to maintain optimal quality.
- Avoid freezing, as it can alter the texture of the mayonnaise and other ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Question 1: Can I use canned chicken in this recipe?
Yes, canned chicken is a convenient alternative to freshly cooked chicken. Be sure to drain it well before adding it to the salad. - Question 2: How can I prevent the almonds from becoming soggy?
Toasting the almonds before adding them to the salad helps maintain their crunch. Also, add them just before serving for the best texture. - Question 3: Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, preparing the chicken salad a day in advance allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the overall taste. Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. - Question 4: Can other fresh herbs be used in place of parsley?
Yes, dill, tarragon, or chives can be used for a slightly different flavor profile.