Chicken Or Tuna Loaf
A savory, chilled meat or fish loaf with a creamy texture and flavorful additions of olives, celery, and herbs, perfect for entertaining or light meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine gelatin, cold chicken stock or water, and boiling stock in a bowl.
- Let the mixture cool until it thickens slightly.
- Add lemon juice and mayonnaise to the gelatin mixture and mix well.
- As the mixture thickens, fold in whipped cream, diced tuna or chicken, diced celery, sliced olives, minced parsley, cottage cheese, and salt.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the mixture. For a healthier twist, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. If you're short on time, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can be a quick alternative to raw chicken. This dish is versatile; you can easily swap out the tuna for salmon or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chicken or Tuna Loaf chilled, garnished with additional parsley or olives for a fresh touch. It pairs beautifully with a light salad or crackers. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Baked Creamy Grits or steamed vegetables. This dish is perfect for picnics or as a potluck contribution.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until warmed through. If you prefer a chilled dish, enjoy it straight from the fridge as it maintains its flavor well.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Or Tuna Loaf contains roughly 633 calories, with 22g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 53g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (93% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (50% of the Daily Value), and potassium (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1172mg per serving (51% 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe can be prepared a day in advance. Allow it to set in the refrigerator overnight for optimal texture. Just remember to cover it well to prevent any odors from the fridge from affecting the dish.
What can I substitute for the gelatin?
If you prefer not to use gelatin, you can try agar-agar as a vegetarian alternative. Follow package instructions for the correct ratio, as it may differ from gelatin. Note that the texture may vary slightly.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this Chicken or Tuna Loaf is naturally gluten-free as none of the ingredients contain gluten. However, always check that your stock and mayonnaise are labeled gluten-free to ensure safety for those with gluten sensitivities.
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).