Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and easy dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This hot chicken salad recipe with boiled eggs is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. Packed with protein and flavor, this dish is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest. It's a quick dinner idea that's both satisfying and surprisingly simple to make, even for beginner cooks. Let's dive into this recipe for a truly delightful meal!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup mayonnaise (choose your favorite brand)
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Crackers or bread for serving (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Boil the chicken breasts until cooked through (approximately 15-20 minutes). Let them cool slightly, then shred the chicken into small pieces using two forks. This is a simple step that makes a big difference in the final texture of the salad.
Step 2: Boil the Eggs
While the chicken is cooking, hard-boil the eggs. Place the eggs in a saucepan, cover with cold water, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, remove from heat, cover, and let sit for 10 minutes. Drain the hot water and run cold water over the eggs to stop the cooking process. Peel the eggs and chop them into small pieces. This adds a creamy texture and extra protein to the salad.
Step 3: Mix the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped boiled eggs, mayonnaise, celery, red onion, parsley, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the hot chicken salad immediately on crackers, bread, or lettuce cups. This is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways, making it a fantastic choice for a quick lunch or a light dinner.
Tips for the Best Hot Chicken Salad:
- For extra flavor: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a touch of heat, or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for a richer, umami flavor.
- Customize your veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like chopped bell peppers, carrots, or cucumbers. This is a great way to incorporate more healthy ingredients into your meal.
- Make it ahead: This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it a perfect meal prep option for busy individuals or families.
Variations:
- Curry Chicken Salad: Add 1 tablespoon of curry powder for an aromatic twist.
- Cranberry Chicken Salad: Incorporate 1/4 cup of dried cranberries for a sweet and tangy flavor profile.
- Avocado Chicken Salad: Add 1/2 of a ripe avocado, mashed, for a creamy and healthy boost.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This hot chicken salad recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy a healthy and satisfying meal. It's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a packed lunch, or even a light appetizer. Give it a try and let us know what you think! Enjoy!