Julie’s Chicken Salad: A Refreshing Delight
Cook Time: 6 hours
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 12
Description:
This chicken salad truly reaches its full potential when allowed to sit and chill in the refrigerator for several hours, making it an ideal choice for preparing in advance. The mingling of flavors over time enhances its taste significantly, and while it can be served in pastry shells, it is equally delightful on its own. Perfect for gatherings or as a delicious meal prep option, this salad promises a burst of refreshing flavor that everyone will love.
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 3 | cups cooked chicken, diced |
| 1 | cup celery, finely chopped |
| 1 | cup pineapple chunks, drained |
| 1 | tablespoon vinegar |
| ½ | teaspoon salt |
| 2 | cups mayonnaise |
| 2 | tablespoons salad oil |
| 2 | tablespoons orange juice |
| ½ | cup sliced almonds (optional) |
| ½ | cup green onions, sliced (optional) |
| 12 | pastry shells (optional) |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutritional Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1062.1 |
| Total Fat | 70.9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 16.6 g |
| Cholesterol | 2.5 mg |
| Sodium | 1149.2 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 94.2 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.4 g |
| Sugars | 5.7 g |
| Protein | 13.2 g |
Instructions
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Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken, salad oil, orange juice, vinegar, and salt. Stir gently until all ingredients are well combined.
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Allow to Marinate: Let the mixture sit for about 1 hour at room temperature. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to blend beautifully, resulting in a more delicious salad.
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Add Remaining Ingredients: After the flavors have melded, add the finely chopped celery and drained pineapple chunks to the bowl. If desired, toss in the sliced almonds and green onions for extra crunch and flavor. Mix gently to ensure everything is evenly coated in the dressing.
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Serve: If using, spoon the chicken salad mixture evenly into pastry shells. Alternatively, serve it in a bowl as a stand-alone dish. Either way, this salad shines as a crowd-pleaser.
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Chill: For best results, refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 6 hours before serving. This extended chill time allows the flavors to deepen and enhances the overall taste.
Enjoying Julie’s Chicken Salad
This delightful chicken salad is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking for a satisfying meal. Its creamy texture and vibrant flavors make it a favorite among both adults and children alike. Consider serving it alongside a light green salad or with crusty bread for a complete meal. The combination of tender chicken, refreshing pineapple, and crunchy celery will surely leave everyone asking for seconds.
Keywords: chicken salad, make-ahead recipe, refreshing salad, party food, easy chicken salad recipe
