Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious lunch or light dinner? Look no further! This chicken salad with apples recipe is a delightful twist on a classic, offering a refreshing blend of savory chicken, crisp apples, and a creamy, tangy dressing. It's perfect for a busy weeknight, a picnic in the park, or a satisfying midday meal. This easy recipe requires minimal cooking time and uses readily available ingredients, making it ideal for both beginner cooks and experienced chefs who appreciate simple, homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced (about 1 large breast)
- 1 medium apple (Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala recommended), diced
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a healthier option)
- 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt (optional, adds creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon dried dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: chopped walnuts, pecans, grapes, or fresh parsley
Instructions:
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Prep the ingredients: Begin by cooking your chicken breast (if you haven't already). You can grill, bake, boil, or even use leftover rotisserie chicken. Once cooked, let it cool completely before shredding or dicing it. While the chicken cools, dice the apple, celery, and red onion.
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Combine ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, gently combine the shredded chicken, diced apple, celery, and red onion.
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Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), Greek yogurt (if using), lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and dried dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Dress the salad: Pour the dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. Be careful not to overmix, as this can bruise the apples and make the salad mushy.
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Chill (optional): For best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
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Serve and enjoy: Serve your delicious chicken salad on bread, crackers, lettuce wraps, or as a filling for sandwiches. Garnish with your favorite toppings, such as chopped nuts or fresh herbs, for an extra touch of deliciousness.
Cooking Tips for the Best Chicken Salad:
- Choose your apple wisely: Apples with a bit of sweetness and tartness work best in this salad. Honeycrisp, Fuji, and Gala are all excellent choices.
- Don't overmix: Gentle mixing is key to preventing the apples from becoming mushy.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile. A pinch of curry powder or paprika adds a nice warmth.
- Make it ahead: This chicken salad tastes even better the next day, making it a fantastic meal prep option for busy days.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken Salad: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the dressing for a kick.
- Cranberry Chicken Salad: Incorporate dried cranberries for a burst of sweetness and tartness.
- Curried Chicken Salad: Add a teaspoon of curry powder to the dressing for an aromatic twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is based on a serving of chicken salad made with mayonnaise. Using Greek yogurt will significantly lower the fat and calorie content.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This recipe offers a simple yet satisfying way to enjoy a healthy and delicious meal. It’s a versatile dish that can be easily adapted to suit your preferences, making it a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. Enjoy!