Chicken Seashell Salad(Serves 12 To 15 People)
A vibrant chicken salad with shells, grapes, and almonds, perfect for gatherings, offering a mix of creamy, crunchy, and sweet flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Simmer chicken breasts in salted water with onion until tender, about 1 1/2 hours.
- Cool the chicken and cut into 1/2-inch squares. Sprinkle with lemon juice.
- Add chopped celery, minced onion, halved grapes (if using), slivered almonds, dried parsley, cooked shells, and salt to the chicken.
- Mix well and chill before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure your chicken stays moist, simmer it gently rather than boiling. For a twist, consider substituting walnuts for slivered almonds or using a mix of red and green grapes for extra color. If you're short on time, pre-cooked chicken can be used, but make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly. This salad can be served over a bed of greens for added freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Chicken Seashell Salad as a light main course or as a side dish at gatherings. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. For an added touch, consider serving it alongside Homemade Chicken 'N Noodles for a comforting, full-course experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm the salad in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can enjoy it cold. This salad also makes a great filling for wraps or sandwiches.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Seashell Salad(Serves 12 To 15 People) contains roughly 512 calories, with 29g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (58% of the Daily Value) and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 771mg per serving (34% 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 another type of pasta instead of medium shells?
Yes, you can substitute medium shells with other pasta shapes like rotini or fusilli, which will hold the dressing well and add a nice texture to the salad. Just ensure you cook the pasta according to package instructions for the best results.
Is it necessary to use fresh grapes, or can I use dried ones?
While fresh grapes add a juicy sweetness, you can use dried grapes or raisins if you prefer. Just remember that dried grapes will contribute a different flavor and texture, so adjust the other ingredients accordingly to balance the salad.
Can I make this salad in advance?
Yes, this salad can be made a day ahead of time. Just prepare it as instructed, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Allowing it to sit overnight helps the flavors meld together beautifully, making it even more delicious when served.
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).