Name: Homemade Chicken Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces bone-in skin-on chicken breasts; 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 3 sprigs fresh thyme; 1.5 cups chopped celery; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; salt and black pepper to taste; 0.5 teaspoon onion powder; 0.25 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 cup mayonnaise

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There’s something so comforting about a bowl of Homemade Chicken Salad. I remember the first time I made it; I was in college, trying to impress my friends with my cooking skills. It was a warm summer afternoon, and the aroma of tender chicken mingled with the crispness of fresh vegetables wafted through the kitchen. The moment they took their first bite, their eyes lit up, and I knew I had struck culinary gold. This dish has become a staple in my kitchen, perfect for a quick lunch or a delightful picnic. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just enjoying a quiet meal at home, Homemade Chicken Salad is a dish that never disappoints.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
35 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Dutch Oven, Vegetable Chopper, Chef Knives, Cutting Board, Mixing Bowls

Why This Homemade Chicken Salad Works

Comfort in Every Bite

The reason I absolutely love Homemade Chicken Salad is its versatility. You can whip it up with just a few ingredients, and it can be customized to fit your taste. Whether you prefer a creamy texture or a lighter vinaigrette, there’s a version for everyone. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken!

Fresh and Flavorful

Another thing that makes this recipe shine is the freshness of the ingredients. The crunch from the celery and the zest from the lemon juice balance the richness of the mayonnaise. Each bite is a burst of flavor, and it’s hard to go back to store-bought versions after trying this homemade delight.

Perfect for Meal Prep

It’s also a fantastic option for meal prep. I often make a big batch at the beginning of the week, and it stores beautifully in the fridge. It’s perfect for quick lunches or light dinners. Just scoop some onto a bed of greens or spread it on your favorite bread, and you have a satisfying meal ready to go!

Family Favorite

This recipe is a family favorite, too. My kids love it! I often get them involved in the preparation, which is a great way to teach them about cooking. They enjoy shredding the chicken and mixing in all the crunchy veggies. It’s not just a recipe; it’s an experience we share together.

Great for Any Occasion

Finally, Homemade Chicken Salad is a dish that works for any occasion. Whether it’s a casual weekend lunch, a family picnic, or a potluck dinner, it always impresses. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a good salad that’s packed with protein and flavor?

Recipe Ingredients for Homemade Chicken Salad

In creating a delicious Homemade Chicken Salad, we must focus on the freshest ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in achieving the ultimate flavor and texture balance. The key players here are the tender chicken breasts, which form the base, complemented by crunchy celery and a zesty kick from lemon juice. Together, they create a delightful medley that’s hard to resist.

4 bone-in skin-on chicken breasts: The star of the dish, providing a tender and juicy base for your salad.
6 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Enhances the flavor of the chicken while keeping it moist during cooking.
3 sprigs fresh thyme: A wonderful herb that adds a subtle earthiness to the chicken.
1½ cups chopped celery: Offers a refreshing crunch and bright flavor to the salad.
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Adds acidity and brightness, cutting through the richness of the mayonnaise.
Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
½ teaspoon onion powder: Provides depth and savory notes to the dressing.
¼ teaspoon garlic powder: A hint of garlic flavor without overwhelming the dish.
1 cup mayonnaise: The creamy binder that brings everything together.

How to Prepare Homemade Chicken Salad

Preparing Homemade Chicken Salad is a straightforward and rewarding process. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious salad ready in no time! Begin by cooking the chicken, then mix all the other ingredients to create a creamy and flavorful salad.

Start by placing the bone-in chicken breasts in a large pot or Dutch oven. Pour the low-sodium chicken broth over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-covered. This will help keep the chicken moist and full of flavor while cooking.
Next, bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Cook the chicken for about 15 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165ºF. This is crucial for ensuring it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to cool. Discard the skin and bones, as we only want the tender meat for our salad.
Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. You want it to be nice and fluffy, not too compact. Set the shredded chicken aside to cool completely before mixing it with the other ingredients.
In a medium bowl, combine the chopped celery, fresh lemon juice, onion powder, garlic powder, and mayonnaise. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. This mixture will act as the creamy dressing for your salad.
Once the shredded chicken has cooled, add it to the bowl with the mayonnaise mixture. Gently fold the ingredients together, ensuring all the chicken is coated in the creamy goodness.
Season the salad with salt and black pepper to taste. This step is important as it enhances the overall flavor profile of your Homemade Chicken Salad.
After mixing, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad until it’s cold. This chilling step allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Once chilled, give the salad a final stir. You can serve it on its own, with crackers, or on a sandwich. Enjoy the delightful flavors of your homemade creation!

Things Worth Knowing

Cook Thoroughly: Always ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165ºF to avoid any foodborne illnesses.
Resting Time: Allow the chicken to rest before shredding. This helps retain moisture and makes shredding much easier.
Ingredient Quality: Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Fresh celery and herbs make a noticeable difference.
Chill Time: Don’t skip the chilling time. It helps all the flavors come together, making your salad taste even better.

Expert Tips about Homemade Chicken Salad

When it comes to perfecting your Homemade Chicken Salad, there are a few tips and tricks that can elevate your dish. Here are some expert insights to make your salad shine!

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps well for about 3 to 4 days, making it perfect for meal prep.
Freezing: You can freeze this salad, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you must freeze it, do so without the mayonnaise, and add it after thawing.
Pairing: Serve this salad on a bed of greens, in a wrap, or on a crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Variations: Feel free to add ingredients like diced apples, grapes, or nuts for a refreshing twist and extra texture.
Herb Choices: Experiment with different herbs like dill or parsley to find your favorite flavor combination.
Use Leftovers: This salad is great for using up leftover chicken from other meals, making it a practical choice.

Serve This Homemade Chicken Salad With

When it comes to serving Homemade Chicken Salad, the options are endless! Here are some ideas to make your meal even more delightful:

On a Bed of Greens: Serve the salad over fresh mixed greens or spinach for a light and healthy lunch.
With Crackers: Pair it with your favorite crackers for a crunchy and satisfying snack.
In a Sandwich: Spread the salad between two slices of your favorite bread for a hearty sandwich option.
For a Picnic: Pack it in a cooler for a delightful outdoor meal. It’s great for picnics and gatherings.
As a Wrap: Use a tortilla or lettuce wrap to make a low-carb version that’s equally delicious.
With Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside fresh seasonal fruits for a refreshing contrast, especially in summer.
During Gatherings: This salad is perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or casual dinners with friends.

FAQ

You can easily make your Homemade Chicken Salad healthier by using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. This substitution cuts down on calories and adds a boost of protein. Additionally, incorporating more vegetables, like diced bell peppers or cucumbers, can increase the nutritional value without sacrificing flavor. You can also reduce the amount of mayonnaise used and replace it with a light vinaigrette. Using grilled or baked chicken rather than fried can also contribute to a healthier dish.

There are plenty of delicious ingredients you can add to your Homemade Chicken Salad to enhance its flavor and texture. Fruits like diced apples or grapes add a sweet crunch, while nuts like almonds or walnuts introduce a satisfying crunch. You can also experiment with different herbs such as dill, parsley, or even cilantro for a refreshing twist. For a spicy kick, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. The possibilities are endless, and you can easily tailor it to your taste preferences!

Absolutely! Using leftover chicken is a fantastic way to make Homemade Chicken Salad. Not only does it save time, but it also helps reduce food waste. Any cooked chicken, whether grilled, roasted, or even from a deli, will work well in this recipe. Just ensure that the chicken is chopped or shredded into bite-sized pieces for even mixing with the other ingredients. This makes it a perfect go-to dish for using up leftovers while creating something delicious!

Your Homemade Chicken Salad can last in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. Make sure to keep it covered to maintain its freshness. If you want to make it ahead of time, just prepare the salad and store it without the mayonnaise if you plan to freeze it. You can always mix in the mayonnaise just before serving to keep the texture nice and creamy. Always check for any off smells or changes in texture before consuming.

Conclusion

In summary, Homemade Chicken Salad is a delightful and versatile dish that is sure to become a favorite in your household. With its creamy texture, crunchy vegetables, and bursts of flavor, it’s perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to give it a try; you won’t be disappointed! This recipe not only feeds your cravings but also brings people together at the table. So gather your ingredients and enjoy making this delicious dish tonight!

Homemade Chicken Salad

The ultimate comfort food, Homemade Chicken Salad is creamy, crunchy, and bursting with flavor. Perfect for a quick lunch or a delightful picnic, this easy weeknight dinner will satisfy your cravings.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 20

Total Time 35

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Salads

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

4 pieces bone-in skin-on chicken breasts
6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
3 sprigs fresh thyme
1.5 cups chopped celery
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
salt and black pepper to taste
0.5 teaspoon onion powder
0.25 teaspoon garlic powder
1 cup mayonnaise

Equipment

Dutch oven
Vegetable Chopper
Chef Knives
Cutting Board
Mixing bowls

Method

Start by placing the bone-in chicken breasts in a large pot or Dutch oven. Pour the low-sodium chicken broth over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-covered. This will help keep the chicken moist and full of flavor while cooking.
Next, bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Cook the chicken for about 15 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165ºF. This is crucial for ensuring it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to cool. Discard the skin and bones, as we only want the tender meat for our salad.
Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. You want it to be nice and fluffy, not too compact. Set the shredded chicken aside to cool completely before mixing it with the other ingredients.
In a medium bowl, combine the chopped celery, fresh lemon juice, onion powder, garlic powder, and mayonnaise. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. This mixture will act as the creamy dressing for your salad.
Once the shredded chicken has cooled, add it to the bowl with the mayonnaise mixture. Gently fold the ingredients together, ensuring all the chicken is coated in the creamy goodness.
Season the salad with salt and black pepper to taste. This step is important as it enhances the overall flavor profile of your Homemade Chicken Salad.
After mixing, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad until it’s cold. This chilling step allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Once chilled, give the salad a final stir. You can serve it on its own, with crackers, or on a sandwich. Enjoy the delightful flavors of your homemade creation!

Notes

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It keeps well for about 3 to 4 days, making it perfect for meal prep.
Freezing: You can freeze this salad, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. If you must freeze it, do so without the mayonnaise, and add it after thawing.
Pairing: Serve this salad on a bed of greens, in a wrap, or on a crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Variations: Feel free to add ingredients like diced apples, grapes, or nuts for a refreshing twist and extra texture.
Herb Choices: Experiment with different herbs like dill or parsley to find your favorite flavor combination.
Use Leftovers: This salad is great for using up leftover chicken from other meals, making it a practical choice.