Northwest Chicken Salad Recipe
Description
This Northwest Chicken Salad is the perfect dish for a light, satisfying meal during the warmer months. Itβs a blend of tender chicken breast, fresh fruits, crunchy walnuts, and a creamy dressing, bringing together a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Serve it with a side of toasted garlic French bread and a chilled glass of white zinfandel for the ultimate summer experience. Quick, easy, and flavorful, this recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Recipe Details
| Category | Chicken Breast |
|---|---|
| Cuisine | American |
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Prep Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 45 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
| Calories | 538.6 kcal per serving |
| Rating | βββββ (5/5) β 1 review |
| Keywords | Chicken, Poultry, Meat, Free Of…, <60 Mins, Easy |
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | 3/4 cup |
| Ground ginger | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Red seedless grapes | 3/4 cup |
| Mandarin oranges | 1 1/2 cups |
| Celery | 1/2 cup |
| Sweet onion | 1/3 cup |
| Walnuts (for garnish) | 1/2 cup |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 538.6 kcal |
| Total Fat | 32.7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 99.7 mg |
| Sodium | 701.2 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 28.9 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.6 g |
| Sugars | 16.1 g |
| Protein | 34.9 g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Dressing
In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ground ginger, and salt. Stir until smooth and well-combined. The mayonnaise serves as the creamy base for the dressing, while the ginger and salt add a subtle, aromatic flavor. -
Assemble the Salad
To the bowl with the dressing, add the red seedless grapes, mandarin oranges, celery, and sweet onion. Gently toss everything together, ensuring that the fruits and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing. The combination of juicy grapes and tangy oranges brings a refreshing contrast to the creamy dressing. -
Chill the Salad
Cover the bowl and place the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the salad allows the flavors to meld together, making every bite even more delicious. -
Serve and Garnish
Once chilled, give the salad one final gentle toss. Serve the chicken salad in individual bowls or on a platter. Before serving, sprinkle the chopped walnuts on top for added crunch and richness.
Tips for a Perfect Northwest Chicken Salad
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The freshness of the fruits and vegetables really enhances the overall flavor. Make sure to use ripe and juicy grapes and mandarins for the best taste.
- Chicken Options: For the best flavor, opt for cooked chicken breast, whether grilled, roasted, or poached. Leftover chicken can also be used to save time.
- Add a Twist: Feel free to experiment with other fruits like apples or pears for a different flavor profile.
- Make Ahead: This salad can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours. The longer it sits, the more the flavors will meld.
- Serve with Toasted Bread: Pair this salad with toasted garlic French bread or any crusty bread for a complete meal.
Pairing Recommendations
For a refreshing drink to complement the Northwest Chicken Salad, consider serving it with a chilled glass of white zinfandel. Its light, fruity flavor enhances the sweetness of the grapes and mandarins while balancing the richness of the creamy dressing. This pairing makes for a perfect summer meal to enjoy outdoors.
Enjoy your light, flavorful, and easy-to-make Northwest Chicken Salad!
