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Chicken Salad

Chicken Salad

The ultimate comfort food, Chicken Salad is a creamy, delicious blend of tender chicken and fresh herbs. Perfect for a light lunch or picnic, this easy weeknight dinner will make you crave more. Make it tonight!
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups diced cooked chicken
  • 3/4 cup mayo
  • 1/4 cup buttermilk
  • 1/2 cup sliced green onion
  • 1/2 cup sliced fresh basil leaves
  • 3 T coarsely grated Parmesan Cheese
  • to taste salt and fresh ground black pepper

Equipment

  • Blender
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Cutting Board
  • Large Pot
  • Grater
  • Frying Pan
  • Chef's Knife
  • Saucepan
  • Whisk

Method
 

  1. Start by taking your raw chicken and trimming any visible fat. Cut the chicken breasts lengthwise into thirds. This will help them cook evenly.
  2. In a small saucepan, add a can of chicken stock along with two cans of water. If you have any Italian seasoning or poultry seasoning, toss that in for extra flavor. Bring this mixture to a boil.
  3. Once the water is boiling, carefully place the chicken pieces in the pot. Reduce the heat to low, allowing the chicken to simmer for about fifteen minutes, or until it is cooked through.
  4. After cooking, drain the chicken using a colander and let it cool. It’s essential that the chicken is cool before you dice it, so you don’t end up with a mushy salad.
  5. While the chicken cools, prepare the fresh ingredients. Slice the basil leaves and chop the green onions. The aromas will fill your kitchen, making it even more enticing!
  6. Once the chicken has cooled, cut it into 3/4 inch pieces and place it in a medium-sized bowl, ready for mixing.
  7. In a separate bowl, combine the mayo and buttermilk. Whisk them together until they are smooth and creamy.
  8. Stir in the chopped green onion, grated Parmesan, and sliced basil into the creamy mixture.
  9. Pour the dressing over the diced chicken and gently mix until all the pieces are coated evenly. This is where the magic happens!
  10. Finally, season with salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste. You can serve it immediately, or let it chill in the fridge for better flavor fusion.

Notes

  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day. It’s best when freshly made.
  • Freezing: While it’s not ideal to freeze Chicken Salad, if you must, store the dressing separately to maintain freshness.
  • Pairing: Serve Chicken Salad with whole-grain crackers, pita bread, or atop a bed of mixed greens for a hearty meal.
  • Fruit Additions: Consider adding diced apples or grapes for a touch of sweetness and crunch.
  • Nutty Crunch: Toss in some toasted walnuts or pecans for a delicious contrast in texture.
  • Global Twist: Experiment with spices like cumin or curry for an international flavor profile.