Jean'S Chicken Salad
A flavorful chicken salad combining tender chopped chicken, crisp celery, fragrant rosemary, and tangy relish, perfect for a light lunch or picnic option.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together in a bowl.
- Chill in the refrigerator before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding more mayonnaise or replacing some with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. If you're out of rosemary, dried thyme works as a great substitute. You can also use leftover rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep. Adjust the pickle relish based on your sweetness preference, or try adding diced apples for a sweet crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Jean's Chicken Salad is perfect for a light lunch or picnic. Serve it on a bed of lettuce or in a sandwich with crusty bread. It pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or a side of chips. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it alongside a bowl of soup, like Black Bean And Smoked Chicken Soup, to round out the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will meld beautifully over time. To reheat, gently warm the chicken salad in a microwave for about 30 seconds, but be careful not to overheat as it may alter the texture. Serve chilled for the best taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jean'S Chicken Salad contains roughly 240 calories, with 4g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (34% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1449mg per serving (63% 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 chicken salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad is ideal for making ahead as the flavors develop beautifully when chilled. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving to refresh the ingredients.
What can I use instead of whipping cream?
If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute the whipping cream with sour cream or plain Greek yogurt. Both will add creaminess while cutting down on calories. If you prefer a non-dairy option, try using coconut cream or a plant-based yogurt.
Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
Yes, feel free to customize! Chopped bell peppers, diced apples, or even shredded carrots can add great flavor and texture. Just remember to keep the balance of moisture to ensure the salad doesn't get too watery.
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).