Classic Carol Chicken Salad

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken: Cooked chicken is the star here. You can use leftover roast chicken or rotisserie chicken for ease. If you’re vegetarian, consider substituting with chickpeas or a plant-based chicken alternative for a similar texture.

Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise adds creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can swap half or all of it for Greek yogurt. For a vegan alternative, use aquafaba or vegan mayo.

Greek Yogurt: It adds a nice tang and creaminess. If you don’t have Greek yogurt, regular yogurt works too, but it may be thinner. You could also use sour cream as another alternative.

Celery: This gives crunch and flavor. If you’re not a fan, try adding chopped bell peppers or cucumbers instead for a different crunch.

Nuts: Walnuts or pecans provide a delightful crunch. If you have nut allergies, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds make great substitutes.

Grapes: They add sweetness to balance the dish. If grapes aren’t available, diced apples or dried cranberries can do the trick.

How Can I Make Sure My Chicken Salad is Well-Mixed?

Mixing well is key to a balanced chicken salad. Here’s how to ensure everything is evenly combined:

• Use a large bowl to give you more space to mix without spilling.
• Start by combining the chicken with the mayo and Greek yogurt. This coats the chicken evenly.
• When adding celery and optional ingredients, mix gently but thoroughly. This prevents the ingredients from getting crushed.
• Taste your salad after mixing to check if it needs more salt, pepper, or lemon juice. Adjust to your preference.

Remember, a good chicken salad has all its flavors shining through, so take your time mixing!

How to Make Classic Carol Chicken Salad

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (optional for extra creaminess)
• 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup red grapes, halved (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Crackers or bread, for serving

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delightful chicken salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and easy, making it a perfect choice for lunch or a light dinner. Enjoy the delicious flavors without spending too much time in the kitchen!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Mixing the Base:

Start by taking a large mixing bowl and adding your cooked chicken—whether it’s shredded or diced, it works just fine. Now, pour in the mayonnaise and, if you want a little extra creaminess, add the Greek yogurt. Stir everything together gently until the chicken is well coated with the mixture. This is where the magic begins!

2. Adding Crunch and Sweetness:

Next, it’s time to give your salad some nice texture. Toss in the finely chopped celery, and if you like, the halved red grapes and chopped walnuts or pecans. These optional ingredients will add a lovely crunch and sweetness to your salad. Gently mix everything together to ensure the flavors are combined well.

3. Seasoning to Perfection:

Now, drizzle in that fresh lemon juice for a zesty kick! Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to your liking. Give it another good mix to incorporate all those delicious flavors. Before you serve, take a little taste; if you think it needs a little more seasoning, feel free to adjust!

4. Serving Your Chicken Salad:

Serve your classic chicken salad in a bowl or make it a sandwich by filling slices of bread. It also tastes great alongside some crunchy crackers or on a bed of fresh greens. Enjoy every bite of this refreshing and flavorful dish!

Can I Use Canned Chicken for This Recipe?

Absolutely! Canned chicken works well in this recipe. Just drain it well and shred or dice it before adding it to the mixing bowl. The texture may be slightly different, but it will still taste great!

What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?

If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, you can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. If you want a creamy texture without the fat, consider using mashed avocado or a vegan mayo. Adjust the quantity to taste, as some substitutes may alter the flavor slightly.

How to Store Leftover Chicken Salad

To store leftovers, place the chicken salad in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. It might thicken as it sits, so add a little extra mayonnaise or yogurt when you re-serve to bring back creaminess.

Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Chicken Salad?

Definitely! Feel free to get creative with add-ins. Diced apples, craisins, or chopped green onions are great options. Just keep in mind that you may want to adjust the seasoning accordingly to balance the flavors.