Celestial Chicken Salad
A creamy chicken salad with crunchy celery, mushrooms, toasted pecans, and crispy bacon, served in lettuce cups for a delightful light meal or appetizer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine diced cooked chicken, diced celery, drained whole mushrooms, toasted chopped pecans, and crumbled bacon in a large bowl.
- In a separate small bowl, blend mayonnaise, lemon juice, and sour cream until smooth.
- Add the mayonnaise mixture to the chicken mixture and toss lightly to combine.
- Chill thoroughly before serving.
- Serve in crisp lettuce cups.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting Greek yogurt for sour cream or using a reduced-fat mayonnaise. You can also add diced apples or grapes for a touch of sweetness. If you’re short on time, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken works well. Adjust the seasoning based on your preference; a sprinkle of garlic powder or fresh herbs can elevate the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
This Celestial Chicken Salad is perfect served in crisp lettuce cups, making it a delightful appetizer or light lunch. Pair it with fresh fruit or a side of whole grain crackers for a complete meal. It also complements a light soup or salad, making it a versatile dish for various occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or serve cold for a refreshing meal. If the salad seems dry after storage, mix in a little extra mayonnaise or yogurt before serving to restore creaminess.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Celestial Chicken Salad contains roughly 230 calories, with 7g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is a good source of vitamin D (16% of the Daily Value), protein (14% of the Daily Value), and calcium (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 599mg per serving (26% 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 leftover chicken for this salad?
Absolutely! Leftover grilled or roasted chicken works perfectly for this recipe. Just ensure it's diced into bite-sized pieces. This is a great way to use up leftover chicken without compromising flavor.
Is there a vegetarian option for this salad?
Yes! You can substitute the chicken with cooked chickpeas or a plant-based protein like tofu. Adjust the seasonings and add extra veggies for texture and flavor to create a delicious vegetarian version.
How long can I keep this chicken salad in the fridge?
The chicken salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to keep it in an airtight container. Always check for freshness before consuming, especially if it contains dairy ingredients.
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).