Easy Chicken Salad Recipe Without Celery So Creamy!
Chicken salad recipe without celery offers a delightful twist on a classic, delivering a creamy, savory experience without the often overpowering crunch.
Equipment
- Preparation of this chicken salad recipe without celery requires a few basic kitchen tools:
- Mixing bowls: Various sizes for combining ingredients.
- Cutting board: For chopping vegetables and herbs.
- Chef's Knife: For dicing and slicing.
- Whisk: For blending the dressing.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient proportions.
- Storage Container: Airtight container for refrigeration.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- cup mayonnaise
- cup plain Greek yogurt (optional, for tang and fewer calories)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- cup red onion, finely diced
- cup red grapes, halved or quartered
- cup toasted almonds, slivered or chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook and Cool the Chicken: If starting with raw chicken, cook it using a preferred method (boiling, baking, or poaching) until it reaches an internal temperature of 165F (74C). Allow the chicken to cool completely before shredding or dicing it. Pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can be used as a convenient shortcut.
- Step 2: Prepare the Dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (if using), lemon juice, and Dijon mustard until smooth and well combined. This creamy base provides the classic chicken salad tang.
- Step 3: Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently mix together the shredded or diced chicken, red onion, halved grapes, toasted almonds, chopped parsley, and chopped dill. The variety of textures and flavors begins to come together here.
- Step 4: Dress the Salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the chicken mixture. Gently fold until all ingredients are evenly coated. Avoid overmixing, as this can cause the salad to become mushy.
- Step 5: Season and Chill: Season the chicken salad with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Chilling also helps the salad to firm up slightly.
- Step 6: Serve: Serve the chicken salad on croissants, crackers, lettuce cups, or as a sandwich filling. Garnish with additional fresh herbs or toasted almonds, if desired. For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing. Alternatively, chopped pickles can be substituted for grapes.
Notes
Variations
Adaptations to the classic chicken salad recipe without celery allow for diverse culinary experiences.
- Ingredient Swaps: Chopped pickles can replace grapes for a tangier profile. Sunflower seeds or walnuts offer an alternative to almonds. For a creamier texture, consider adding mashed avocado.
- Regional Twists: Incorporating curry powder creates a flavorful Indian-inspired version. A Southwestern spin might include black beans, corn, and a touch of chili powder. A Mediterranean variation could feature sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese.
- Dietary Adjustments: To reduce fat content, substitute mayonnaise with light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt. For a dairy-free version, use vegan mayonnaise. To make it suitable for those on keto diet, use avocado oil based mayonnaise and avoid the fruit, replace it with bacon bits.
Serving Suggestions
This chicken salad recipe is versatile and suitable for numerous occasions.
- Ideal for light lunches served on croissants, whole-wheat bread, or lettuce wraps.
- Makes an excellent addition to picnics and potlucks.
- Can be served as an appetizer with crackers or crudits.
- Pairs well with a side salad or a cup of soup.
Storage Tips
Proper storage maintains the freshness and quality of the prepared chicken salad.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Consume within 3-4 days to ensure optimal taste and prevent spoilage.
- Avoid freezing, as this can alter the texture of the mayonnaise and other ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Question 1: Can this recipe be made ahead of time? Answer: Yes, this recipe can be prepared a day in advance. The flavors meld together beautifully when refrigerated overnight.
- Question 2: What if I don’t have Greek yogurt? Answer: If Greek yogurt is unavailable, sour cream or additional mayonnaise can be used as a substitute.
- Question 3: How can I prevent the chicken salad from becoming watery? Answer: Ensure all ingredients, especially the grapes and red onion, are thoroughly drained before adding them to the salad. Avoid overmixing, as this can release moisture from the ingredients.
- Question 4: Can other herbs be used in this recipe? Answer: Yes, fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil can be used based on flavor preferences.