Nanas Chicken Salad the Ultimate Comfort Food Classic
Table of Contents
Nana's Chicken Salad: The Ultimate Comfort Food Classic
Remember those Sunday lunches at your Nana's? I sure do. The star? Always her famous Best Chicken Salad . This recipe aims to recreate that magic, with a modern twist.
It's a proper hug in a bowl, honestly.
What Makes This the Best Chicken Salad?
This isn't just any Chicken Salad Recipe . It's Nana's Classic Chicken Salad , the one that brings back memories. Tender chicken meets crunchy celery, sweet grapes, and a creamy dressing.
Think of it as the ultimate comfort food. Enjoy it in sandwiches, with crackers, or straight from the bowl. I won't judge.
A Chicken Salad Recipe With Heritage
This Homemade Chicken Salad draws inspiration from classic recipes. The goal is a delicious, easy-to-make dish with a nod to tradition.
It's easy peasy, perfect for beginners. Expect prep to take around 20 minutes, cooking 20 minutes, and chilling for 30.
This Easy Chicken Salad Recipe yields 4-6 servings, ideal for a family lunch.
Why You'll Love This Creamy Chicken Salad
One of the best things about this Best Chicken Salad Recipe is that it’s packed with protein from the chicken.
It’s also perfect for picnics, BBQs, or a quick lunch. What makes this recipe special? It's the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
It's that Chicken Salad Sandwich filling you've been craving.
Now, onto the good stuff: the ingredients. You'll need chicken, grapes, celery, and a few other bits and bobs. Don't worry, it’s all pretty straightforward.
Right then, let's dive into what you'll need to whip up this Best Chicken Salad Recipe , shall we? Forget those complicated recipes.
This is all about simple ingredients done right. It's Easy Chicken Salad Recipe time!
Ingredients & Equipment
Let's get down to brass tacks, shall we? I swear, this Creamy Chicken Salad is so good, you'll be sneaking spoonfuls straight from the bowl.
Main Ingredients
Here's what you'll need. Don't skimp on quality, especially with the mayo. Trust me!
- 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Fresh is best, but frozen (thawed, naturally) works too. Make sure the breasts are plump and pink.
- 4 cups (950ml) low sodium chicken broth. This is our poaching liquid. Low sodium helps us control the final salt level.
- 1 cup (150g) red grapes, halved. Go for plump, firm grapes. Avoid anything that looks wrinkly or sad.
- 1 cup (100g) celery, finely diced. Crisp celery is key for that crunch we all love.
- 1/2 cup (75g) red onion, finely diced. Red onion adds a little zing.
- 1/4 cup (25g) fresh parsley, chopped. Fresh is a must here. It adds brightness and flavour.
- 1 cup (240ml) good quality mayonnaise. Seriously, get the good stuff! Hellmann's/Best Foods is always a winner.
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) Dijon mustard. Adds a little tang.
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) fresh lemon juice. Brightens everything up.
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) sugar. Balances the acidity.
Seasoning Notes
Spices make or break a dish. Here are my thoughts.
Thyme is our star herb for poaching the chicken. It adds a lovely, subtle flavour. Salt and pepper are essential, of course.
Adjust to taste. Dijon mustard and lemon juice brighten everything up. Don't be afraid to experiment!
Missing Dijon? Yellow mustard will work. But it won't have the same kick.
Equipment Needed
No fancy gadgets needed here. This is Nana's Chicken Salad , not rocket science!
- Large pot or Dutch oven. For poaching the chicken.
- Cutting board and chef's knife. For chopping everything.
- Mixing bowl. For combining all the ingredients.
- Whisk. For the dressing.
Honestly, that's all you need. If you don't have a whisk, a fork will do. This Classic Chicken Salad recipe is all about ease, remember? So don't stress about having the perfect tools.
It's about coming together and making the Best Chicken Salad you have ever tasted. Enjoy the process!
Right then, let's get cracking on this Best Chicken Salad recipe, shall we? Think of it as a culinary hug in a bowl.
This recipe is reminiscent of something your Nan might have made, but with a little modern flair. We are gonna dive deep into making some Homemade Chicken Salad .
Nana's Chicken Salad: The Ultimate Comfort Food Classic
This isn't just any chicken salad recipe ; it's Nana's Chicken Salad, the kind that evokes memories of Sunday lunches.
Tender, poached chicken combines with crunchy celery, sweet grapes, and a creamy, tangy dressing, all in perfect harmony. Honestly, it's the ultimate comfort food.
Perfect on sandwiches, crackers, or straight from the bowl no judgement here.
Prep Steps: Getting Your Ducks in a Row
Essential mise en place is key. It’s French for “everything in its place,” and trust me, it saves time. Chop your celery, halve your grapes, and dice that red onion before you start cooking.
This way, you’re not scrambling later.
Speaking of saving time, poach the chicken a day ahead. You know? It's much easier to shred cold chicken. And as always, wash your hands before you start. Safety first, always.
The step-by-step Lowdown
- Poach the Chicken: In a large pot, add 1.5 lbs (680g) chicken breasts, 4 cups (950ml) chicken broth, 1 teaspoon (5ml) dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) salt, and 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) black pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat, cover, and poach for about 20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165° F/ 74° C .
- Shred It: Let the chicken cool slightly, then shred it with two forks. I swear, it’s strangely therapeutic.
- Veggie Prep: Chop 1 cup (150g) red grapes in half, finely dice 1 cup (100g) celery and 1/2 cup (75g) red onion, and chop 1/4 cup (25g) fresh parsley.
- Dressing Time: In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup (240ml) good quality mayonnaise (Hellmann's is always a winner), 2 tablespoons (30ml) Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon (15ml) fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon (5ml) sugar, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Combine All: In a large bowl, gently combine the shredded chicken, chopped grapes, celery, red onion, and parsley. Oh my gosh!.
- Dress It Up: Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir gently to coat. Don't be too rough now.
- Chill Out: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. This step is crucial.
- Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. A little extra lemon juice can brighten things up.
Pro Tips from Yours Truly
Don’t overcook the chicken. Honestly, dry chicken is the enemy of a good Best Chicken Salad Recipe . Use a meat thermometer to be sure.
A dash of hot sauce can add a surprising kick. You know? I learned that from my Auntie Pat. You can also make the Easy Chicken Salad Recipe ahead of time.
It actually tastes better the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
That way, the Classic Chicken Salad really get's their chance to shine.
So, there you have it Nana's Creamy Chicken Salad recipe that is also the Best Chicken Salad . It's easy, delicious, and guaranteed to bring a smile to your face.
So, try it, and enjoy it.
Recipe Notes for the Best Chicken Salad Ever!
Right, so you've got the recipe for this Best Chicken Salad , but let's chat about some extra bits. Think of these as secret weapons.
These tricks will make your Chicken Salad Sandwich experience even better. Honestly, these little tweaks can turn a good salad into Nana's Chicken Salad , the stuff of legends.
Serving Suggestions Let's Get Fancy (Or Not!)
Okay, so plating. It does matter, you know? For a simple lunch, pile your Creamy Chicken Salad high on a flaky croissant.
Feeling posh? Use a cookie cutter to make cute shapes out of bread. Serve on a bed of lettuce for a lighter meal.
For sides, think classic: coleslaw is always a win. Or some crunchy crisps/chips. To drink? A glass of lemonade, or even a cheeky glass of wine.
Chicken Salad with Grapes ? Sophisticated.
Storage Tips Keep It Fresh, Mate!
Right, you've made a big batch of this Homemade Chicken Salad . Now what? Get it in the fridge ASAP. In an airtight container, it'll keep for 3-4 days .
Freezing? Not ideal, the mayo can get weird. If you must, use freezer safe containers and eat within 1 month . Reheating? Nah, enjoy it cold.
Variations Mix It Up!
Want to spice things up? Add some chopped walnuts. Best Chicken Salad Recipe with a bit of crunch. Doing the low-carb thing? Swap the mayo for Greek yogurt.
You can also add some avocado. Seasonal? Use cranberries in the winter instead of grapes. So festive.
Nutrition Basics Good For You (Ish!)
Okay, let’s be honest, it's not health food. But it's got protein! Roughly 450 calories a serving. Protein? A solid 35g.
There are also fats, and some carbs. The sodium can creep up depending on what you use.
Listen, this recipe for Easy Chicken Salad Recipe is just a starting point. Have fun. Make it your own! You'll find the perfect balance for Classic Chicken Salad in no time.
The Best Chicken Salad is waiting for you!
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the secret to making the Best Chicken Salad that doesn't end up dry?
Nobody wants a sad, dry chicken salad! The key is not to overcook the chicken. Poaching it gently in broth, as we do in this recipe, keeps it super moist. Also, don't skimp on the mayonnaise in the dressing it's there to keep everything luscious and prevent it from drying out.
Can I make this Best Chicken Salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, it's better if you do. The flavors meld together beautifully as it chills in the fridge. I recommend making it a few hours in advance, or even the day before you plan to serve it. Just give it a good stir before serving and maybe add a touch more mayo if it seems a little dry.
What are some fun variations I can try with this Best Chicken Salad recipe?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! For a bit of a kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing. Chopped walnuts or pecans give it a lovely crunch and nutty flavour.
You could even try a curry chicken salad by adding 1-2 teaspoons of curry powder to the dressing for a warm, aromatic twist, very "coronation chicken" like!
How long does this Best Chicken Salad last in the fridge?
Properly stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, this chicken salad should last for 3-4 days. Be sure to use your common sense; if it smells off or the texture seems weird, it's best to err on the side of caution and toss it. Food safety first, mate!
Is this recipe healthy? What are the nutritional considerations for this Best Chicken Salad?
While chicken salad is delicious, it's not typically considered a "health food" due to the mayonnaise content. To make it a bit lighter, you can substitute half of the mayonnaise with mashed avocado or Greek yogurt. Be mindful of sodium levels too. Always good to enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
See the nutritional information provided in the recipe for an estimate!
I'm not a fan of grapes. Can I substitute them in this Best Chicken Salad recipe?
No problem at all! If grapes aren't your cup of tea, dried cranberries make a fantastic substitute, offering a similar sweetness and chewy texture with a bit of tang. Diced apple is another great option for adding a crisp, fresh element. Feel free to experiment to find what you love best!
Nanas Chicken Salad The Ultimate Comfort Food Cl
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 450 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 30g |
| Fiber | 1g |