Margaret'S Chicken Salad
A creamy chicken salad loaded with crunchy celery, toasted pecans, and smoky bacon, perfect for a light lunch or picnic, blending savory flavors with a tangy dressing.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine diced cooked chicken, diced celery, drained mushrooms, toasted pecans, and crumbled bacon in a large bowl.
- In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, and salt until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss lightly to coat evenly.
- Chill thoroughly before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider substituting Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise. You can also add diced apples or grapes for a touch of sweetness. If you prefer a bit of spice, try adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing. This chicken salad is versatile; feel free to incorporate other cooked proteins or nuts based on your preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Margaret's Chicken Salad on a bed of mixed greens or in a sandwich for a satisfying meal. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or crackers for a light lunch. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a bowl of Velvet Chicken Soup or a fresh fruit salad to balance the savory flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the best texture, avoid reheating the salad. Instead, serve it cold or at room temperature. If you need to, you can refresh it with a bit more mayonnaise or sour cream before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Margaret'S Chicken Salad contains roughly 905 calories, with 17g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 75g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (34% of the Daily Value), vitamin D (33% of the Daily Value), and calcium (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1610mg per serving (70% 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 rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken can save you time and adds great flavor to the salad. Just make sure to remove the skin and bones before dicing the chicken. This is a great shortcut that makes meal prep easier.
How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the chicken salad a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe, combine all ingredients, and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just give it a good stir before serving.
What are some good sides to serve with this chicken salad?
Consider pairing this chicken salad with a light coleslaw or a simple green salad to complement the richness. Additionally, serving it with crispy potato chips or fresh fruit can provide a nice contrast in texture and flavor.
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).