Easy Chicken Salad Recipe No Mayo That's Delicious
Chicken salad recipe no mayo offers a lighter twist on a classic, delivering a flavorful and satisfying meal without the heaviness of traditional mayonnaise-based versions.
Equipment
- The preparation of a chicken salad recipe without mayonnaise requires a few essential kitchen tools:
- Cutting board
- Chef's knife
- Mixing bowl (medium)
- Small bowl for dressing
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Plastic Wrap or Airtight Container (for storage)
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup dried cranberries or grapes
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or almonds
Instructions
- Step 1: Combine the Chicken and Vegetables: In a medium-sized bowl, gently combine the diced cooked chicken, chopped celery, red onion, and fresh parsley. Ensure that the ingredients are evenly distributed for a balanced flavor in each bite.
- Step 2: Prepare the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed to achieve the desired flavor profile. A touch more lemon juice can brighten the dressing, while additional mustard adds a savory depth.
- Step 3: Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Gently fold the ingredients together until everything is evenly coated with the dressing. Be careful not to overmix, as this can cause the chicken to become shredded.
- Step 4: Add Optional Ingredients (if using): If desired, add the dried cranberries or grapes and chopped walnuts or almonds to the salad. Gently fold them in to distribute them evenly throughout the mixture. These additions provide a delightful textural contrast and a burst of sweetness and nuttiness.
- Step 5: Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This step is crucial for enhancing the overall taste of the salad. Serve chilled on a bed of lettuce, in a sandwich or wrap, or with crackers. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing. To make it dairy-free, substitute the Greek yogurt with avocado or a dairy-free yogurt alternative. Different herbs like dill or chives can be used instead of parsley for a varied flavor.
Notes
Variations
A chicken salad recipe without mayonnaise offers ample opportunities for customization. These can be broadly categorized into ingredient swaps, regional styles, and dietary adaptations:
- Ingredient Swaps: The celery can be substituted with chopped cucumber or water chestnuts for a different crunch. Red onion can be replaced with shallots or green onions for a milder flavor. Fresh parsley can be swapped with dill, chives, or tarragon for an alternative herbal note. For added sweetness, consider incorporating grapes, apple chunks, or dried cranberries. A textural contrast can be achieved by adding toasted almonds, pecans, or sunflower seeds.
- Regional Styles: A Southwest-inspired variation might include black beans, corn, diced avocado, and a lime-cilantro dressing. A Mediterranean twist could feature sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a lemon-herb vinaigrette. An Asian-inspired version could incorporate shredded carrots, sliced scallions, sesame seeds, and a soy-ginger dressing.
- Dietary Adaptations: For a dairy-free version, substitute the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative or an avocado-based dressing. A paleo-friendly adaptation could replace the yogurt with mashed avocado or a cashew cream. For a spicier variation, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can be added to the dressing.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken salad without mayonnaise is a versatile dish suitable for various occasions. It excels as a light lunch option, served on a bed of crisp lettuce or nestled within a whole-wheat wrap. It can also be served as an elegant appetizer, presented in small lettuce cups or on toasted baguette slices. During warmer months, it makes an ideal component of a picnic spread, paired with fresh fruit and a refreshing beverage. Additionally, it can be incorporated into a bento box or lunchbox for a nutritious and convenient meal on the go.
Storage Tips
To preserve the freshness and flavor of chicken salad without mayonnaise, it should be stored properly. Transfer any leftover salad to an airtight container and refrigerate immediately. When stored correctly, the salad will typically remain fresh for up to 3 days. It’s advisable to avoid freezing the salad, as this can alter the texture of the ingredients and affect the overall quality. Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir to redistribute the dressing and ensure that the flavors are well combined.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Question 1: Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?
Canned chicken can be used as a convenient alternative to freshly cooked chicken. Be sure to drain it well and remove any bones or cartilage before adding it to the salad. - Question 2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe can be prepared a day in advance. The flavors tend to meld together even better when the salad has time to chill in the refrigerator. - Question 3: What can I substitute for Dijon mustard?
If Dijon mustard is unavailable, a comparable substitute is yellow mustard, horseradish mustard, or even a small amount of horseradish sauce for a more pungent flavor. - Question 4: Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, to make it vegan, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or a plant-based chicken substitute, and use a plant-based yogurt alternative or an avocado-based dressing in place of the Greek yogurt.