Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Utilizes common pantry staples for quick preparation.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable with your favorite add-ins like nuts or dried fruits.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Flavors meld beautifully when prepared in advance.
Ingredients
- 500 grams of boneless chicken breast, diced
- 300 grams of boneless chicken thigh, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon granulated onion
- ⅔ cup mayonnaise
- 3 stalks of celery, diced
- Additional sea salt and black pepper, to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Chicken: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly coat diced chicken breasts and thighs with olive oil. Season with granulated onion, sea salt, and black pepper.
- Bake: Place the seasoned chicken in a baking dish, cover loosely with aluminum foil, and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Cool and Dice: Allow the chicken to cool for at least 10 minutes, then refrigerate for an hour. Once chilled, dice into ¼-inch pieces.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix diced chicken, celery, and mayonnaise until well combined.
- Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 1-2 hours, or overnight, to let flavors meld.
- Season and Serve: Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning with additional sea salt and black pepper as needed.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Approximately 6
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
- Chilling Time: 1-2 hours (or overnight for enhanced flavor)
Variations
- Add Fruits: Incorporate dried cranberries, grapes, or diced apples for a touch of sweetness.
- Nuts: Add toasted pecans, almonds, or walnuts for extra crunch.
- Herbs: Fresh dill or parsley can introduce a burst of freshness.
- Spices: A dash of curry powder or paprika can add a unique flavor twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Best enjoyed cold. If preferred warm, gently heat in a skillet over low heat until just warmed through; however, note that mayonnaise-based salads can change texture when heated.
FAQs
What type of chicken is best for this salad?
A combination of boneless chicken breasts and thighs offers a balance of lean and juicy meat.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is a convenient alternative that adds extra flavor.
Is there a substitute for mayonnaise?
Greek yogurt or a blend of yogurt and mayonnaise can be used for a lighter option.
How can I make it healthier?
Opt for low-fat mayonnaise or yogurt, and add more vegetables like diced bell peppers.
Can I freeze chicken salad?
Freezing is not recommended as mayonnaise tends to separate upon thawing, affecting texture.
What can I serve with chicken salad?
Serve on croissants, in wraps, with crackers, or atop a bed of greens.
How long can it sit out at room temperature?
For food safety, it should not sit out for more than 2 hours.
Can I add eggs to this salad?
Chopped hard-boiled eggs can be added for extra protein and texture.
How do I prevent it from becoming watery?
Ensure the chicken is properly cooled and patted dry before mixing to reduce excess moisture.
What other seasonings can enhance the flavor?
Consider adding Dijon mustard, garlic powder, or a squeeze of lemon juice for added zest.
Conclusion
Deli-Style Chicken Salad is a versatile and satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and customize. Whether for a quick lunch or a picnic, its classic flavors are sure to please.
Deli-Style Chicken Salad
- Total Time: approximately 2 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Deli-Style Chicken Salad is a classic dish featuring tender chicken, crunchy celery, and creamy mayonnaise. Perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or as a standalone dish, this easy recipe is customizable and ideal for make-ahead meals.
Ingredients
- 500g boneless chicken breast, diced
- 300g boneless chicken thigh, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon granulated onion
- ⅔ cup mayonnaise
- 3 stalks celery, diced
- Additional sea salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Coat diced chicken with olive oil, granulated onion, sea salt, and black pepper.
- Bake: Arrange chicken in a baking dish, cover loosely with foil, and bake for 25-30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Cool and Dice: Allow the chicken to cool for 10 minutes, refrigerate for 1 hour, then dice into ¼-inch pieces.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix chicken, celery, and mayonnaise until well blended.
- Chill: Refrigerate the mixture for 1-2 hours or overnight to meld flavors.
- Season and Serve: Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper before serving.
Notes
- Add sweetness with dried cranberries, grapes, or apples.
- Include nuts like toasted pecans, almonds, or walnuts for crunch.
- Enhance flavor with fresh herbs (dill, parsley) or spices (curry powder, paprika).
- Serve cold for best results.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: salad
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
