Ah, Deli-Style Chicken Salad! It’s not just a dish; it’s a delightful experience that brings the joys of a classic deli right into your kitchen. Perfect for a satisfying lunch or a light dinner, this chicken salad is a symphony of flavors and textures. The tender chicken mingles beautifully with the sweetness of dried cranberries, the crunch of celery, and the nuttiness of toasted pecans, creating a well-balanced meal that will please the palate of any guest.
Moreover, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it solo, as a classic sandwich filling, or even over a refreshing bed of greens. It’s fresh, it’s light, and it dances with flavor. Whether you’re preparing a family meal or hosting a gathering with friends, this chicken salad will undoubtedly steal the spotlight. Plus, the best part is that it can be made ahead of time, allowing you to spend more time with those you love instead of in the kitchen.
Finally, this chicken salad is an excellent way to utilize leftover chicken. With just a few simple ingredients, you can transform yesterday’s dinner into a delightful dish that tastes anything but left over. It’s economical, delicious, and a fantastic representation of comfort food, making it a perfect choice for any occasion.
How to Make Deli-Style Chicken Salad
Ingredients:
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup Miracle Whip
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon seasoning salt
4 cups cooked chicken, cubed or shredded
1 cup dried cranberries, dried cherries, or grape halves
1/2 cup chopped celery
2 green onions, chopped
3/4 cup chopped green pepper or apple
1 cup toasted pecans, chopped
Ground black pepper, to taste
Directions:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Miracle Whip, paprika, and seasoning salt. Stir until well combined and creamy.
Add the cooked chicken, dried cranberries, chopped celery, chopped green onions, chopped green pepper or apple, and toasted pecans to the bowl with the dressing mixture.
Gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is evenly coated with the dressing. Season with ground black pepper to taste.
Cover the bowl and chill the chicken salad in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, preferably 4 to 6 hours, to allow the flavors to meld.
Before serving, give the chicken salad a quick stir, and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Serve the deli-style chicken salad on its own, as a sandwich filling, or over a bed of fresh salad greens. Enjoy the delicious flavors and textures of this satisfying dish!
How to Serve Deli-Style Chicken Salad
Serving Deli-Style Chicken Salad is a delight! You can present it in various ways that will surely charm your guests. Serve it chilled right from the bowl for a casual yet fresh offering. A simple presentation like this showcases the colorful ingredients, making it a vibrant addition to your meal.
If you’re looking for a more elegant presentation, consider serving it in hollowed-out tomatoes or avocados. This adds a dash of creativity and makes each serving a delightful surprise. It transforms the ordinary into something truly special, ideal for gatherings or a lovely family dinner.
Don’t forget to accompany your chicken salad with some crunchy crackers or toasted bread on the side. This adds an excellent textural contrast and makes for a wholesome and satisfying meal. Whether you choose to serve it in bowls or as a filling in sandwiches, this chicken salad is bound to impress!
Additional Tips:
You can add fruits like apples or grapes for an extra sweetness.
Feel free to adjust the ingredient quantities based on your taste preferences.
It’s even more delicious the next day, so consider making a larger batch!
Nutrition Facts:
(Estimated values per serving)
Calories: 300
Protein: 25g
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 3g
FAQ Section:
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! In fact, it tastes better after the flavors meld in the refrigerator, so making it a day in advance is a great idea.
Q: What can I use if I don’t have Miracle Whip?
A: You can use all mayonnaise, or mix a bit of sour cream for a tangy flavor.
Q: How long will it keep in the refrigerator?
A: It should stay fresh for about 3-5 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.
Deli-Style Chicken Salad
Enjoy this classic dish that combines ease of preparation with sensational taste, perfect for any time of the day!
Print Deli-Style Chicken Salad
Ingredients
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup Miracle Whip
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon seasoning salt
4 cups cooked chicken, cubed or shredded
1 cup dried cranberries, dried cherries, or grape halves
1/2 cup chopped celery
2 green onions, chopped
3/4 cup chopped green pepper or apple
1 cup toasted pecans, chopped
Ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Miracle Whip, paprika, and seasoning salt. Stir until well combined and creamy.
Add the cooked chicken, dried cranberries, chopped celery, chopped green onions, chopped green pepper or apple, and toasted pecans to the bowl with the dressing mixture.
Gently toss all the ingredients together until everything is evenly coated with the dressing. Season with ground black pepper to taste.
Cover the bowl and chill the chicken salad in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, preferably 4 to 6 hours, to allow the flavors to meld.
Before serving, give the chicken salad a quick stir, and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Serve the deli-style chicken salad on its own, as a sandwich filling, or over a bed of fresh salad greens. Enjoy the delicious flavors and textures of this satisfying dish!
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