Pixicook
HomeRecipesChickenChicken Salad
recipe image

Chicken Salad

clock-icon380 minutes
author-image
Author
Pixicook editorial team

A classic chicken salad made with tender poached chicken, a creamy dressing, and fresh herbs.

Ingredients for Chicken Salad

units in
USchevron
serves
4 peoplechevron

Bone-In, Skin-On Chicken Breasts

0 lb

Scallions, cut into thirds

each

Black Peppercorns

teaspoons

Lemon, halved

each

Dijon Mustard

teaspoons

Celery Ribs, cut into medium (1/4-inch) dice

each

Walnuts, broken into bite-size pieces

cups

Chives, chopped

tablespoons

Salt

to taste

How to Make Chicken Salad

1. Poach the Chicken

Bring a Dutch oven or a heavy pot of water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the scallions and black peppercorns. Cover the pot and ensure it returns to a rolling boil. Turn off the heat and carefully add the chicken breasts to the hot water. If needed, use boiling water from a teakettle to ensure the chicken is fully submerged. Cover the pot and let it rest undisturbed for 2 hours.

2. Prepare the Chicken

After two hours, lift the chicken out of the pot. Remove the bones, skin, and any excess fat, then pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Cut or shred the chicken into bite-size pieces and set aside.

3. Make the Dressing

In a bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, mayonnaise, sour cream, and Dijon mustard or pickle brine if you're using it. Adjust the seasonings and thickness to your preference.

4. Combine Ingredients

Pour the dressing over the shredded chicken. Add the diced celery, minced onion if desired, nuts, and chopped herbs. Season with salt and ground black pepper. Gently toss everything together until well combined.

5. Refrigerate and Serve

Cover the bowl and refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 4 hours to let the flavors meld. Before serving, taste the salad and add more salt and pepper if needed. Sprinkle some extra herbs on top for garnish. Enjoy your delicious chicken salad!

Variations

Add-In Variations

Greek Chicken Salad with feta, cucumber, olives, and tomatoes; Waldorf Chicken Salad with apples, grapes, walnuts; Cobb Chicken Salad with eggs, bacon, blue cheese, avocado, and greens.

Mediterranean Twist

Use fresh basil, oregano, and a touch of mint. Add some chopped Kalamata olives and a sprinkle of feta cheese.

Asian Influence

Incorporate cilantro, Thai basil, and a bit of mint. Add a dash of sesame oil and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for garnish.

Flavor Variations

Curry Chicken Salad with curry powder, raisins, and almonds; Southwestern Chicken Salad with cumin, cilantro, lime juice, and jalapeños; Asian Chicken Salad with sesame oil, soy sauce, and rice vinegar dressing.

Protein Swaps

Tuna Salad with dill or chives; Chickpea Salad with mustard and lemon juice for a vegetarian option; Turkey or Ham Salad with cranberries or pickles for a twist.

Comments (0)

Add your comment...

Explore More Chicken recipes

Explore More Collections

Hearty Red Lentil Soup

Easy Winter

Dashi with Cod and Clams

Mushroom Soup

Broccoli Cheddar Delight Soup

Vegetarian Winter

Crispy Skin Chicken Thigh with Garlic-Caper Pan Sauce

Quick Chicken