Lagoon Chicken Salad
A vibrant chicken salad with wild rice, fresh grapes, crunchy celery, and toasted almonds, perfect for light lunches or picnics with a harmonious mix of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Gently toss together the diced cooked chicken, cooked wild rice, halved green grapes, chopped celery, slivered almonds, and chopped water chestnuts in a large bowl.
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, seasoned salt, and cinnamon until well combined.
- Add the mayonnaise mixture to the chicken and rice mixture, and toss to coat evenly.
- Serve the salad on a bed of fresh spinach leaves.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting Greek yogurt for part of the mayonnaise. You can also use roasted chicken for a richer taste. If you prefer a crunchier texture, add more slivered almonds or even some chopped apples. To make it lighter, swap out the wild rice for quinoa. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This Lagoon Chicken Salad is perfect for a light lunch or picnic. Serve it alongside a fresh fruit platter or crusty bread for a balanced meal. It also pairs beautifully with Brenda'S Rice And Chicken for a heartier dinner option. Garnish with extra almonds or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added appeal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If you plan to reheat, do so gently in the microwave to avoid drying it out. Adding a splash of mayonnaise before serving can refresh the flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lagoon Chicken Salad contains roughly 951 calories, with 9g protein, 87g carbohydrates, and 64g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1349mg per serving (59% 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 rotisserie chicken for this salad?
Absolutely! Using leftover rotisserie chicken is a great way to save time and add flavor. Just make sure to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces before mixing it with the other ingredients. It will blend well and enhance the overall taste of the salad.
Is there a vegetarian option for this salad?
Yes, you can easily make this salad vegetarian by substituting the chicken with chickpeas or a plant-based protein like tofu. You can also add more vegetables such as bell peppers or cucumbers to keep it hearty and satisfying. The dressing will work well with these ingredients too.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this Lagoon Chicken Salad gluten-free, ensure that the mayonnaise you use is labeled gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten. Additionally, substitute the wild rice with another gluten-free grain like quinoa or brown rice. This will keep the salad delicious and safe 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).