Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Salad:
- 1 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a healthier version)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Add-ins:
- 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
- 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or dill
- 1/2 cup sweet corn kernels (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped pickles or relish (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice, optional)
For Serving:
- Lettuce leaves, sandwich bread, or crackers
- Tomato slices or cucumber for garnish
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, paprika, and any other preferred spices.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes per side, until cooked through and juices run clear.
- Remove from pan and let cool slightly.
- Once cooled, chop or shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
2. Make the Dressing:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Adjust the dressing ingredients to your preference—more mustard for tang, honey for sweetness, or lemon for acidity.
3. Combine the Salad:
- Add the chopped chicken to the dressing.
- Mix in the chopped celery, bell pepper, red onion, parsley (or dill), corn, relish, and cheese if using.
- Stir gently until everything is well coated.
4. Chill and Serve:
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve on a bed of lettuce, as a sandwich filling, or with crackers.
- Garnish with extra herbs or slices of tomato and cucumber if desired.
Tips for the Best Chicken Salad
- Use cooked, cooled chicken: For tender, juicy chicken, cook it gently and let it cool before chopping.
- Customize the ingredients: Feel free to add grapes, apples, nuts, or different herbs for variation.
- Healthy options: Substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a mix of both for a lighter version.
- Make ahead: Chicken salad tastes even better after sitting for a few hours, allowing flavors to develop.
Variations
- Spicy Chicken Salad: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- Asian-Inspired: Use sesame oil, soy sauce, chopped scallions, and shredded carrots.
- Mediterranean: Incorporate olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese.
Enjoy Your Super Yummy Chicken Salad!
This versatile recipe can be adapted to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. It’s perfect for picnics, lunchboxes, or a quick dinner. Fresh, flavorful, and satisfying — it’s truly super yummy!