Chicken Salad Northwood
A vibrant and hearty chicken salad featuring wild rice, fresh vegetables, creamy avocados, and toasted pecans, perfect for a light lunch or picnic.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook wild rice in chicken broth until tender, then drain and toss with lemon juice and let cool.
- Combine the cooked rice with chopped cooked chicken breast, sliced green onions, chopped red pepper, and cut sugar peas.
- Gently fold in avocado chunks and toasted pecan halves.
- Serve immediately or chill before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Chicken Salad Northwood, consider toasting the wild rice in a dry skillet before cooking it in chicken stock. If you don't have wild rice, brown rice can be a suitable substitute, though the texture will differ. For added crunch, you can mix in some diced celery or use walnuts instead of pecans. This salad is also delicious with a drizzle of a light vinaigrette.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chicken Salad Northwood chilled or at room temperature for a refreshing meal. It pairs perfectly with a light green salad or whole-grain crackers for added crunch. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside a bowl of Fresh Mushroom Soup(Lo-Fat) for a comforting lunch or dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If the salad appears dry after refrigeration, you can revive it with a splash of lemon juice or a drizzle of olive oil. For best results, consume within a day for optimal freshness, as the avocado may brown over time.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Salad Northwood contains roughly 104 calories, with 6g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Chicken Salad Northwood a few hours ahead of time. However, it's best to add the avocado and pecans just before serving to maintain their texture and flavor. If preparing the night before, consider storing the avocado separately to prevent browning.
Is there a vegan version of this recipe?
Absolutely! To veganize this dish, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or a plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. You can also replace the avocados with a creamy tahini dressing for added richness, ensuring a satisfying meal without animal products.
What can I serve with Chicken Salad Northwood?
This salad is versatile and pairs well with various sides. Consider serving it with a simple arugula salad or alongside a bowl of Chicken Casserole(Low-Fat) for a complete meal. You could also enjoy it in a wrap or sandwich for a delicious lunch option.
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).