Herby Lemon Chicken Salad
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook: Fancy a Proper Chicken Salad ?
Ever get that craving for something comforting but a bit posh? This Herby Lemon Chicken Salad is the answer. It's got a zingy, fresh flavor profile that'll make you feel like you're at a fancy picnic, even if you're just having lunch at your desk.
Brief Overview: From English Gardens to Your Plate
The idea comes from a classic English picnic, updated for today's tastes. Think cucumber sandwiches, but with extra oomph . It’s super easy, takes about an hour including chill time, and makes enough for 4 servings perfect for a light lunch or afternoon tea.
We are making Classic chicken salad variations .
Main Benefits: A Healthier Indulgence
This recipe is packed with protein. Chicken salad is really versatile. Serve it for a light lunch or at a summer picnic.
What makes this recipe special? The fresh herbs and lemon make it feel light and refreshing. Perfect for summer picnics.
Honestly, it's the perfect blend of healthy and delicious.
Ready to dive in? Let's get to those ingredients!
What You'll Need for this English Chicken Salad Recipe
You probably already have most of the ingredients in your kitchen! This Deli style chicken salad is also quite customizable.
I will teach you how to make the Best chicken salad for picnic . Don't be afraid to experiment!
Let's Talk Ingredients
Alright, gather 'round, my lovely cooks! Let's have a chinwag about what you'll need to conjure up this delightful English chicken salad recipe .
Ingredients & Equipment
Right, let's get down to what you need to make this scrummy Herby Lemon Chicken Salad happen! This isn't some fancy pants recipe.
Chicken salad recipe easy is our motto. Think simple, tasty, and utterly English.
Main Ingredients
This recipe makes four servings, perfect for a light lunch or a picnic.
- Chicken breasts: 1.5 lbs (680g) . Get good ones!
- Olive oil: 1 tbsp (15ml) . Extra virgin is always a winner.
- Salt: 1/2 tsp (3g) . Sea salt, darling.
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp (1g) . Freshly cracked, if you have it.
- Mayonnaise: 1/2 cup (115g) . Full fat or light, your call. I like the real stuff.
- Lemon juice: 2 tbsp (30ml) . Freshly squeezed, obviously.
- Dijon mustard: 1 tbsp (15ml) . For a little zing!
- Fresh parsley: 1/4 cup (15g) . Finely chopped.
- Fresh chives: 1/4 cup (15g) . Snip, snip!
- Red onion: 1/4 cup (30g) . Finely chopped, obvs.
- Celery: 1/2 cup (75g) . Adds a nice crunch.
- Dried cranberries: 1/4 cup (30g) . Or raisins, if you're old school.
- Toasted slivered almonds: 1/4 cup (50g) . Optional, but highly recommended.
You want chicken that's plump and juicy. No pale, watery stuff, alright? English chicken salad recipe deserves the best. And always check the use-by date.
Seasoning Notes
Honestly, the lemon and herbs are key. It gives this chicken salad that fresh, English garden vibe.
Don’t skip the Dijon mustard! It adds a subtle heat that balances the creamy mayo. If you don't have Dijon, a bit of English mustard will do in a pinch.
But Dijon really is best, right?
A pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Always!
Equipment Needed
Nothing too crazy, promise!
- Large skillet or pot. For cooking the chicken, unless you're using rotisserie.
- Cutting board. Safety first!
- Sharp knife. A good knife makes all the difference.
- Large mixing bowl. For all the magic to happen.
- Measuring cups and spoons. Get those measurements right.
Don't have a fancy mixing bowl? Any bowl will do, love. Just get stuck in!
Making a Proper Chicken Salad: Let's Get Cracking!
Honestly, who doesn't love a good chicken salad sandwich ? It's one of those lunch staples, right? But we're not just talking about any old chicken salad recipe easy today.
Oh no, we're elevating it with a Herby Lemon Chicken Salad , a proper English affair! It is one of the best chicken salad for picnic or even a quick lunch.
Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place Magic
Okay, first things first: let's get our ducks in a row. That means chopping all the veggies, measuring out the herbs, and having everything ready to go before we even touch the chicken.
This is the secret to a stress free cooking experience, you know? Essential mise en place is a must! We'll start by preparing the 1.
5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts . Time saving tip: if you're short on time, grab a pre-cooked rotisserie chicken from the supermarket.
No shame in that game!
step-by-step to Chicken Salad Perfection
Right then, let's get cooking!
- Cook the Chicken: Season those chicken breasts with salt and pepper, about 1/2 tsp (3g) salt and 1/4 tsp (1g) black pepper should do the trick. Cook them in a skillet with a drizzle of 1 tbsp (15ml) olive oil . Make sure that internal temp reaches 165° F / 74° C .
- Chop, Chop, Chop: Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, dice it into bite sized pieces. Aim for about 1/2 inch cubes.
- Dressing Time: In a large bowl, whisk together the 1/2 cup (115g) mayonnaise , 2 tbsp (30ml) fresh lemon juice , and 1 tbsp (15ml) Dijon mustard . This is the key to our tangy gourmet chicken salad .
- Combine it All: Add the chopped chicken, 1/4 cup (15g) finely chopped fresh parsley , 1/4 cup (15g) finely chopped fresh chives , 1/4 cup (30g) finely chopped red onion , 1/2 cup (75g) chopped celery , and 1/4 cup (30g) dried cranberries (or raisins if you fancy) to the bowl. Don't forget the 1/4 cup (50g) toasted slivered almonds for that extra crunch! These make a great classic chicken salad variations .
- Season to Taste: Give everything a good mix and season with salt and pepper to your liking.
- Chill Out: Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes . This allows the flavors to meld and gives the salad a better texture. The make-ahead chicken salad option is great if you are planning a picnic.
- Serve and Enjoy: This deli style chicken salad is perfect served chilled on croissants, lettuce cups, or crackers.
Pro Tips for a Cracking Chicken Salad
- Don't overcook the chicken! Nobody likes dry, stringy chicken salad.
- Toast the almonds. Trust me, it makes all the difference.
- If you like a sweeter salad, add a touch of honey to the dressing.
This lemon herb chicken salad is seriously addictive. You'll be making it all summer long, promise! Honestly, that extra bit of lemon makes it a game changer. Enjoy, my friends!
Recipe Notes for Your Proper Chicken Salad
Alright, let's talk shop about this Herby Lemon Chicken Salad - A Proper English Affair . Honestly, it's more forgiving than you think! Here are a few things to keep in mind to make it absolutely banging.
Serving Suggestions: Make it Look the Dog's Bollocks !
Presentation matters, you know? For a classic touch, serve this delightful chicken salad on a buttery croissant. Feeling fancy? Try a tower of deli style chicken salad on a bed of crisp lettuce.
I reckon a side of homemade coleslaw would go down a treat. And don't forget the bevies! A chilled glass of elderflower cordial is just the ticket.
Storage Tips: Keep it Fresh, Keep it Safe
Got leftovers? No worries! This make-ahead chicken salad keeps well. Pop it in an airtight container in the fridge.
It'll be good for 3-4 days , tops. Important : make sure it's properly chilled! Freezing isn’t really recommended, as the mayo can get a bit weird.
Reheating? Nah, chicken salad is best served cold.
Variations: Get Creative, You Rebel !
Fancy a twist? For a lighter version, swap some of the mayo for Greek yogurt. It adds a lovely tang.
Need a gluten-free option? Serve it in lettuce cups or with gluten-free crackers. I once added chopped apple for a bit of sweetness.
It was surprisingly scrummy. Try a chicken salad with cranberries and almonds , they really make the dish!
Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite
Okay, so I'm no nutritionist, but here's the gist. This lemon herb chicken salad is packed with protein, thanks to the chicken.
The herbs add vitamins, and the lemon juice gives you a Vitamin C boost. Just be mindful of the mayo everything in moderation, eh? This classic chicken salad variations provides a well rounded meal.
Or try a chicken salad sandwich for a quick and simple bite!
So, there you have it! A few tips and tricks to make your English chicken salad recipe experience a total success.
Don't be afraid to experiment and put your own spin on it. Now go on, get cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make chicken salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, chicken salad often tastes better after the flavors have had a chance to meld together. You can prepare it up to 2-3 days in advance. Just be sure to store it properly in an airtight container in the fridge. Much like a good cup of tea, it gets better with a bit of time!
What's the best way to store leftover chicken salad? How long will it last?
To keep your chicken salad fresh and delicious, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it should be good for 3-4 days. Keep in mind, like that last scone on a plate, it's best enjoyed sooner rather than later to prevent any loss of quality.
I'm not a fan of mayonnaise. Are there any good substitutes for chicken salad?
Of course! If you're looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute for mayonnaise in chicken salad. It adds a tangy flavor and cuts down on the fat. You could also try a vinaigrette based dressing for a completely different flavor profile, perhaps with a little lemon and herbs - very continental!
What are some interesting variations I can try to spice up my chicken salad?
Feeling adventurous? Try adding a bit of curry powder for a curried chicken salad, or go Greek with feta cheese and olives! You could even throw in some grapes for a sweeter twist. It's all about experimenting and finding what tickles your fancy a bit like finding the perfect biscuit to dunk in your tea.
Is there a way to make this chicken salad healthier?
You bet! Opt for light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to reduce the fat content. Load up on the veggies like celery and onion for added fiber. And consider swapping out some of the mayonnaise for a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavor without adding extra calories.
It's all about balance, like enjoying a nice walk in the park after a cream tea!
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this chicken salad recipe?
Absolutely, using rotisserie chicken is a brilliant shortcut! It saves you cooking time and adds a lovely smoky flavor. Just shred or dice it up and add it to the rest of the ingredients. It’s like having a pre-made base for your masterpiece, leaving you more time to enjoy that cuppa.
Herby Lemon Chicken Salad
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 450 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 30g |
| Fiber | 10g |
