Are you craving a vibrant, flavorful meal that’s ready in a flash? Look no further than this Time On Broadway Chicken Salad! Inspired by the energy and deliciousness of a Broadway show, this recipe delivers a burst of flavor in every bite. It's the perfect healthy meal, quick dinner idea, and a fantastic example of easy recipes that don't compromise on taste. Get ready to take a bow after creating this homemade cooking masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup chopped red onion
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a healthier option)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cooking the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Drizzle with olive oil and place in a baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken cool completely before shredding.
Step 2: Preparing the Salad
- While the chicken is cooling, finely chop the celery and red onion.
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, celery, red onion, cranberries, and walnuts/pecans.
Step 3: Making the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Combining and Serving
- Pour the dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture.
- Gently toss everything together until well combined.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips for the Best Time On Broadway Chicken Salad:
- For extra flavor: Marinate the chicken in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- Make it ahead: This chicken salad can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Bread it up: For a fun twist, serve the chicken salad on crusty bread, croissants, or crackers.
- Add some crunch: Toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds would also be a delicious addition.
Variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the dressing for a spicy twist.
- Apple Crisp: Substitute diced apples for the cranberries for a sweeter, autumnal flavor.
- Mediterranean Twist: Replace the cranberries and walnuts with Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400 (depending on ingredients used)
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This delicious and healthy Time On Broadway Chicken Salad is perfect for a light lunch, a quick dinner, or even a satisfying snack. Enjoy this easy and flavorful recipe, and don't forget to share your culinary creations! We'd love to see your delicious homemade cooking!