Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something delicious, healthy, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This chicken noodle salad recipe is your new go-to for a quick and satisfying meal. It's packed with flavor, perfect for a light lunch or a simple weeknight dinner, and easily customizable to your preferences. This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest – delicious, healthy, and surprisingly quick to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- 1 cup celery, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (for a healthier twist)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Get started:
- Cook the chicken: Boil or bake the chicken breasts until cooked through. Let cool slightly, then shred or chop into bite-sized pieces. For faster cooking, consider using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. This is a great tip for those looking for quick dinner ideas.
Prepare the noodles and vegetables:
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Cook the egg noodles according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent sticking.
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While the noodles are cooking, prepare the vegetables. Thinly slice the celery and red onion.
Make the dressing:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, dill, salt, and pepper.
Combine and serve:
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In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, noodles, celery, and red onion.
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Pour the dressing over the chicken and noodle mixture and toss gently to combine.
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If desired, garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips & Variations:
- Add some crunch: Toasted slivered almonds, sunflower seeds, or chopped walnuts add a delightful crunch to this salad.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing for a little kick.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or white beans for a hearty vegetarian option. This transforms the recipe into a delicious and healthy vegetarian meal.
- Customize your veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as shredded carrots, bell peppers, or chopped cucumbers.
- Make it ahead: This salad tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This chicken noodle salad is a perfect example of easy recipes that don't compromise on taste or nutrition. It's a great addition to your repertoire of best recipes and a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy and delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy!