Brenda'S Favorite Chicken Salad
A flavorful, hearty chicken salad with crunchy peanuts, sweet peas, and savory bacon, perfect for casual gatherings or a satisfying lunch with a creamy, tangy twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix Miracle Whip and Ranch dressing together in a bowl.
- Combine cooked chicken, chopped red Bermuda onion, thawed peas, peanuts, and crumbled bacon in a large mixing bowl.
- Pour the dressing mixture over the combined ingredients and toss gently to coat evenly.
- If the salad seems dry, add extra Ranch dressing to desired consistency.
- Chill the salad for at least 1 hour before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting Greek yogurt for Miracle Whip. You can also swap out the peanuts for sunflower seeds if allergies are a concern. To enhance flavor, add fresh herbs like dill or parsley. This chicken salad is versatile enough to be used in wraps or on a bed of greens, making it a great option for summer meals.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chicken salad on a bed of lettuce, with whole grain crackers, or in a sandwich. It pairs beautifully with Summer Melon Salad for a refreshing meal. Consider adding sliced avocados or cherry tomatoes for extra color and flavor. This dish is perfect for picnics or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the salad becomes too dry after refrigeration, simply stir in a bit of extra Ranch dressing before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the ingredients may change upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Brenda'S Favorite Chicken Salad contains roughly 162 calories, with 10g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (27% of the Daily Value) and protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2312mg per serving (101% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor. Just be sure to remove the skin and bones before chopping. It’s a convenient option that can enhance the overall taste of your chicken salad.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To ensure this chicken salad is gluten-free, make sure the dressings you use are certified gluten-free. Additionally, serve it with gluten-free crackers or over a bed of greens instead of bread. This way, everyone can enjoy it without dietary concerns.
What can I add for extra crunch?
For an extra crunch, consider adding diced celery or chopped bell peppers. You can also include crispy tortilla strips or a sprinkle of crushed chips on top just before serving. These additions will provide a delightful texture contrast in your chicken salad.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).