Pressed Chicken(Salad Type)
A chilled pressed chicken salad combining tender chicken with fresh celery, onions, parsley, and gelatin for a light, savory dish perfect for picnics or light meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the chicken or stewing hen well until the meat is done and falls off the bones.
- Remove the chicken from the bones and chop into small pieces.
- Skim off fat from the boiled down chicken juice, then add gelatin to the juice.
- Pour the gelatin mixture over the chopped chicken and mix well.
- Add chopped celery, onion, and dried parsley to the mixture.
- Chill until set before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a stewing hen, as it has more depth than a regular chicken. If you're short on time, you can use store-bought rotisserie chicken. Instead of dried parsley, fresh parsley can provide a brighter taste. Make sure to let the mixture cool before refrigerating to help it set better. This dish is great for picnics and pairs wonderfully with Sunshine Pasta Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pressed chicken salad on a bed of greens or with crackers for a light meal. It can also be used as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. Pair it with a side of Celery Delight for a refreshing crunch, or offer it alongside a fruit salad for a balanced meal. This dish is perfect for summer gatherings or as a hearty lunch option.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the mixture before it sets. To reheat, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. Avoid microwaving, as it can alter the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pressed Chicken(Salad Type) contains roughly 434 calories, with 42g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (196% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (138% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 738mg per serving (32% 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 other types of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with turkey or even cooked ham for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the meat is tender and can be shredded or chopped easily. If using turkey, the cooking time may vary slightly due to the size.
How long should I chill the mixture before serving?
Chill the mixture for at least 4 hours or until fully set. Overnight chilling is preferable as it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. If you're in a hurry, you can place it in the freezer for about 1-2 hours, but monitor it closely.
Is it necessary to add gelatin?
While gelatin helps the salad hold its shape and provides a unique texture, you can omit it if you prefer a looser salad. If you want a similar texture without gelatin, consider using a bit of mayonnaise or yogurt to bind the ingredients together instead.
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).