Are you craving a light, delicious, and surprisingly easy salad that's perfect for lunch, a potluck, or a quick weeknight dinner? Then look no further! This Chicken Salad Chick Grape Salad recipe is a delightful twist on a classic, bringing together juicy grapes, crunchy pecans, and creamy chicken salad for a flavor explosion in every bite. This recipe is a shining example of delicious dishes you can make easily at home. It’s a quick dinner idea, a healthy meal, and a testament to the joy of homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (about 1 large chicken breast)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup seedless red grapes, halved
- 1/2 cup pecans, toasted and chopped
- Optional: 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
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Prepare the Chicken Salad: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mayonnaise, celery, red onion, pickle relish, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly combined. The texture should be creamy but not overly wet. If it seems too thick, add a tablespoon of milk or more mayonnaise to achieve your desired consistency.
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Toast the Pecans: Spread the pecans on a baking sheet and toast them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning. Let them cool completely before chopping. This adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the salad.
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Combine the Salad: Gently fold in the halved grapes and chopped pecans into the chicken salad. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to retain some texture in the grapes and pecans.
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Chill and Serve: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for achieving the best taste and allows the salad to chill thoroughly, enhancing the overall experience. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- For a sweeter salad: Add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the chicken salad mixture.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a little kick.
- Add some crunch: Consider adding chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds along with, or instead of, pecans.
- Make it ahead: This salad is even better the next day! Prepare it a day in advance for a stress-free lunch or potluck contribution. The flavors will only deepen.
- Use different grapes: Green grapes or a mix of green and red grapes also work well in this recipe.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This Chicken Salad Chick Grape Salad recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor and satisfaction. It's a simple yet elegant dish that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy! This recipe is a wonderful addition to your collection of best recipes. It's a healthy alternative to heavier salads and a quick and easy way to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal.