Sweet and Tangy Chicken is a delicious and refreshing dish that combines the savory taste of chicken with the sweetness of apples and the tanginess of lemon. This dish is perfect for a light lunch, a picnic, or a quick weeknight dinner. Here’s how you can make it:
Ingredients
- 2/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground pepper
- 2 cups diced cooked chicken
- 2 red apples, cored and diced
- 2/3 cup sliced celery
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
- Mix Mayonnaise and Lemon Juice:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2/3 cup of mayonnaise and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. Mix until well combined.
- Add Seasonings:
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of ground pepper to the mayonnaise mixture. Stir to incorporate.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
- Add Chicken and Apples:
- Add 2 cups of diced cooked chicken and 2 diced red apples to the bowl. Mix until the chicken and apples are well coated with the dressing.
- Add Celery and Walnuts:
- Add 2/3 cup of sliced celery and 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts to the mixture. Stir until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Chill and Serve
- Chill the Salad:
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve:
- Serve the Sweet and Tangy Chicken salad chilled. It can be enjoyed on its own, over a bed of greens, or as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.
Cook Notes and Variations
Cook Notes:
- Chicken: You can use leftover cooked chicken, rotisserie chicken, or poached chicken breasts for this recipe.
- Apples: Red apples like Fuji or Gala work best for this recipe because they are sweet and crisp.
Variations:
- Add Grapes: For an extra burst of sweetness, add 1/2 cup of halved seedless grapes.
- Use Pecans: Substitute the walnuts with chopped pecans for a different flavor profile.
- Yogurt Dressing: For a lighter version, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made a day ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Stir well before serving.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
3. Can I use other types of nuts?
Yes, you can use pecans, almonds, or even cashews as a substitute for walnuts.
4. What can I serve with this salad?
Serve this salad with crusty bread, crackers, or as a filling for wraps or sandwiches. It also pairs well with a green salad.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This Sweet and Tangy Chicken Salad is perfect for lunch, dinner, picnics, or potlucks. Its refreshing flavors and crunchy texture make it a crowd-pleaser.
Tips for Success
- Chill Well: Letting the salad chill allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh apples and celery add a great crunch and freshness to the salad.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the salad before serving and adjust the seasoning if needed.
This Sweet and Tangy Chicken Salad is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that combines the savory taste of chicken with the sweetness of apples and the tanginess of lemon. It’s perfect for any occasion and is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy making and eating this delicious salad!
