Easy Chicken Salad Recipe Without Mayonnaise Delight
Chicken salad recipe without mayonnaise offers a lighter, zestier take on a classic, delivering a satisfying crunch and flavor profile with fresh ingredients.
Equipment
- The following utensils, kitchen tools, and appliances are required for preparing this recipe:
- Cutting board
- Chef's knife
- Mixing Bowls (various sizes)
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Fork or potato masher
- Storage container (airtight)
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1/2 cup celery, finely diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely minced
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup red grapes, halved (optional)
- 1 ripe avocado, mashed
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the Chicken: Poach, bake, or grill chicken breasts until fully cooked. Let cool slightly, then shred or dice into bite-sized pieces. Alternatively, use leftover cooked chicken for convenience.
- Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables: Finely dice the celery and red onion. Chop the fresh dill and parsley. Halve the red grapes, if using. Consistent dicing ensures uniform flavor distribution.
- Step 3: Make the Dressing: In a medium bowl, mash the ripe avocado until smooth. Add the lemon juice, olive oil, and Dijon mustard. Whisk until well combined. This avocado-based dressing replaces traditional mayonnaise and adds a creamy texture and healthy fats.
- Step 4: Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced celery, minced red onion, chopped dill, chopped parsley, and halved grapes (if using). Pour the avocado dressing over the chicken mixture.
- Step 5: Season and Mix: Season the chicken salad with salt and pepper to taste. Gently fold all ingredients together until well coated with the dressing. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the avocado dressing too liquid.
- Step 6: Chill and Serve: Cover the chicken salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled on lettuce wraps, croissants, crackers, or as a filling for sandwiches. A brief chilling period allows flavors to meld, enhancing the overall taste. Optional Tips: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing. Toasted almonds or walnuts can be added for extra crunch. Substitute Greek yogurt for half of the avocado for a tangier flavor and lower fat content.
Notes
Variations
This chicken salad recipe without mayonnaise lends itself to a variety of adaptations and enhancements:
- Ingredient Swaps: Replace celery with chopped jicama for a different kind of crunch. Substitute fresh dill with dried dill, using approximately one teaspoon for every tablespoon of fresh dill. Consider using rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Regional Twists: Incorporate Southwestern flavors by adding diced avocado, corn, black beans, and a squeeze of lime juice. Experiment with Mediterranean influences by including sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese.
- Dietary Adjustments: For a dairy-free version, ensure Dijon mustard used is dairy-free. Add a small amount of maple syrup for sweetness. Those who have nut allergies can swap out the grapes with dried cranberries.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile salad can be served in numerous ways:
- Serve as a light lunch option alongside a green salad or a bowl of soup.
- Offer as a filling for sandwiches or wraps, using whole-grain bread, croissants, or lettuce wraps.
- Present as an appetizer or snack with crackers, vegetable sticks, or toasted baguette slices.
- Incorporate into a buffet or potluck spread, providing a healthier alternative to mayonnaise-based salads.
Storage Tips
Proper storage is essential to preserve the freshness and quality of this dish:
- Store the prepared salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Consume within 2-3 days for optimal flavor and texture.
- Note: The avocado in the dressing may cause some discoloration over time; a squeeze of extra lemon juice can help slow this process.
- Freezing is not recommended as it can alter the texture of the chicken and vegetables.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Question 1: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Answer: Yes, pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken is a convenient option. Ensure the chicken is cooled before incorporating it into the salad. - Question 2: Can I prepare the salad in advance?
Answer: The salad can be prepared a few hours in advance. However, it is best to add the avocado dressing just before serving to prevent browning. - Question 3: What can I use instead of avocado in the dressing?
Answer: Greek yogurt or a blend of Greek yogurt and olive oil can be used as an alternative, although the flavor and texture will be different. - Question 4: Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies?
Answer: This recipe is gluten-free and can be adapted to be dairy-free. Those with other allergies should carefully review the ingredients and make necessary substitutions.