Are you craving a light yet satisfying lunch or a quick and healthy dinner? Look no further! This Albertsons-inspired chicken salad recipe is a fantastic choice. It's incredibly easy to make, using readily available ingredients, and delivers a burst of fresh flavor in every bite. Perfect for busy weeknights or a delightful weekend picnic, this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, adaptable to various tastes and dietary needs. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut!)
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (choose your favorite – full-fat, light, or even vegan!)
- 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt (adds creaminess and protein!)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped grapes, walnuts, or pecans for added texture and flavor
Instructions:
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Prep the Chicken: If using a rotisserie chicken, shred the meat and remove any bones or skin. If cooking your own chicken breast, ensure it's fully cooked and cooled before shredding.
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Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the shredded chicken, celery, and red onion.
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Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
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Dress the Salad: Pour the dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
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Add-ins (Optional): If using, stir in the grapes, walnuts, or pecans.
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Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is highly recommended for the best taste! Serve on bread, crackers, lettuce cups, or enjoy it straight from the bowl.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chicken Salad:
- For extra flavor: Add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder to the dressing.
- Adjust the seasoning: Taste the chicken salad and adjust the salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Don't overmix: Gently toss the ingredients to prevent the chicken from becoming mushy.
- Make it ahead: This chicken salad can be made a day or two in advance, allowing the flavors to develop further.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Chicken Salad: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the dressing for a kick.
- Curry Chicken Salad: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of curry powder into the dressing for an exotic twist.
- Cranberry Chicken Salad: Add 1/4 cup of dried cranberries for a sweet and tart contrast.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a serving size of approximately 1/2 cup and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: Approximately 20-25 grams
- Fat: Approximately 10-15 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10 grams
This Albertsons-inspired chicken salad recipe is a simple yet elegant dish, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Its versatility makes it a fantastic base for experimentation, allowing you to tailor it to your own taste preferences. Enjoy this healthy and delicious meal!