Deli-Style Chicken Salad
Instructions:
Follow these simple steps to create your own Deli-Style Chicken Salad masterpiece:
- Prepare the Chicken:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast and thigh, then season with sea salt, black pepper, and granulated onion. Cook until the chicken is fully cooked through and golden brown, about 8-10 minutes.
- Cool the Chicken:
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and allow it to cool completely. You can transfer it to a plate or cutting board and let it sit for a few minutes.
- Dice the Celery:
- While the chicken is cooling, dice the celery stalks into small pieces. Aim for bite-sized pieces that will add crunch and texture to your chicken salad.
- Prepare the Dressing:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise with a pinch of sea salt and black pepper. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Once the chicken has cooled, add it to the bowl with the dressing. Then, toss in the diced celery and gently mix until all the ingredients are evenly coated.
- Chill and Serve:
- Transfer the chicken salad to the refrigerator and chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Once chilled, serve the chicken salad on its own, with crackers, or as a sandwich filling.
Cook Notes and Variations:
Take your Deli-Style Chicken Salad to the next level with these helpful tips and creative variations:
- Add Some Crunch: Incorporate chopped almonds, walnuts, or pecans for added texture and flavor.
- Go Green: Mix in chopped fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives for a burst of freshness.
- Sweeten the Deal: For a hint of sweetness, add diced apples, grapes, or dried cranberries to the salad.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Enjoy the flavors of Deli-Style Chicken Salad while keeping it keto-friendly or low-carb with these simple modifications:
- Keto-Friendly Option: Replace traditional mayonnaise with a keto-friendly version made with avocado oil or olive oil. Skip the granulated onion and use fresh onion or onion powder instead to reduce carb content.
- Low-Carb Alternative: Serve the chicken salad on a bed of mixed greens or lettuce wraps instead of bread or crackers to keep the carb count low.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use all chicken breast or all chicken thigh in this recipe? A: Yes, feel free to use all chicken breast or all chicken thigh depending on your preference. Both cuts will work well in this chicken salad recipe.
Q: How long will the chicken salad last in the refrigerator? A: Properly stored in an airtight container, Deli-Style Chicken Salad will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Q: Can I make this chicken salad ahead of time? A: Absolutely! In fact, allowing the flavors to meld together in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight will enhance the taste of the chicken salad.
In conclusion, Deli-Style Chicken Salad is a versatile and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as a simple lunch, a crowd-pleasing party appetizer, or a flavorful sandwich filling, this chicken salad is sure to satisfy. With its tender chicken, crunchy celery, and creamy dressing, it’s a classic recipe that never fails to impress. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in the delightful flavors of Deli-Style Chicken Salad!
