Are you craving a taste of Richmond, Virginia? Then look no further! This Ukrop's Chicken Salad recipe brings the iconic, creamy, and tangy goodness right to your kitchen. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a delightful addition to your next picnic. It's a delicious dish that's both healthy and satisfying, making it a go-to for busy weeknights and relaxed weekend afternoons. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade Ukrop's-style chicken salad!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded (about 1 pound boneless, skinless breasts)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (Duke's is traditionally used, but any good quality mayonnaise will work)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped sweet pickle relish
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch
Instructions:
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Prepare the Chicken: If you haven't already, cook your chicken breasts. Grilling, baking, or boiling works well. Once cooked, let it cool completely before shredding. Using two forks makes this process quick and easy.
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Combine Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mayonnaise, celery, red onion, sweet pickle relish, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. If using nuts, add them now.
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Mix Thoroughly: Gently mix all ingredients until they are evenly distributed throughout the chicken salad. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the salad mushy.
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Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step enhances the overall taste, making the chicken salad even more delicious. Serve on bread, crackers, croissants, lettuce wraps, or enjoy it as a standalone dish.
Tips for the Best Ukrop's Chicken Salad:
- Chicken Quality: Using high-quality, fresh chicken will significantly impact the flavor of your salad.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing can result in a less appealing texture. Gentle mixing is key.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the chicken salad before serving and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want more lemon juice, salt, or pepper to your liking.
- Make it Ahead: This chicken salad tastes even better the next day, making it an excellent make-ahead recipe for busy schedules.
Variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy twist.
- Herby Delight: Incorporate fresh herbs like dill, chives, or parsley for a brighter flavor profile.
- Fruity Twist: Add some chopped grapes or apples for a sweet and tangy variation.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This Ukrop's Chicken Salad recipe is a simple yet delicious addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a quick dinner idea that’s perfect for satisfying your cravings while delivering a burst of flavor. Enjoy this taste of Richmond, and happy cooking!