Perfectly Balanced Chicken Salad: A Refreshing Summer Meal

Chicken salad is a classic dish that can be enjoyed year-round but especially shines during the warm summer months when fresh vegetables and herbs complement its flavor perfectly. This recipe for a chicken salad features a balance of textures, flavors, and ingredients that make it both nutritious and delicious.

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 6 people

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
• ⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (optional)
• 2 tbsp finely chopped green onions
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional)
• 1 small apple, diced
• ½ cup celery, sliced
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Begin by preparing the chicken salad with a combination of sweet and tangy flavors. Mix together the cooked shredded or cubed chicken breast in a large bowl.

1. Add the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice if using, Dijon mustard if desired, green onions, apple, celery, tomatoes, and parsley to the bowl with the chicken. These ingredients will create a balanced mix of textures – from crunchy to creamy.
2. Season the mixture generously with salt and pepper. Taste it after adding these spices, as seasoning can vary depending on your personal preference in terms of saltiness and spiciness.

To serve, you could either use this chicken salad as a main dish on top of a bed of mixed greens or as a filling for lettuce wraps, small pitas, or avocado halves. The combination works exceptionally well with just a few simple side dishes like slices of cucumber and cherry tomatoes. You can also add some sliced almonds for added crunch if desired.

Health Benefits

This chicken salad is rich in protein from the chicken breast which helps to build muscle mass, repair tissues, and boost energy levels. The yogurt adds probiotics that support a healthy digestive system and mayonnaise provides essential fats needed for brain function and skin health. Apple, celery, tomatoes, and parsley contribute antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals beneficial to overall health.

Storage Tips

This chicken salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you prefer to have it ready to eat quickly, consider preparing it only when you plan to serve it within 1-2 hours after preparation and consume it promptly.

Tips for Success

• Making sure the chicken is thoroughly cooked before shredding or cubing ensures food safety.
• The amount of lemon juice can be adjusted according to your taste preference. Some people like a bit more acidity which helps cut through the richness of the mayo and yogurt.
• Using fresh ingredients instead of pre-packaged salad mixes keeps the flavor authentic and full-bodied.

Variations

You can enhance this recipe by experimenting with different vegetables. For example, adding slices of red bell pepper or cucumber to the salad will provide additional freshness and color. Another variation is using different types of meat such as turkey instead of chicken for a similar but slightly different flavor experience.

The versatility of this dish also makes it suitable for various occasions ranging from casual lunches at home to picnics in the park. Its adaptability ensures that there’s always something new to discover and enjoy each time you prepare it.