Regal Chicken Salad
Regal Chicken Salad offers a delightful combination of tender chicken, sweet pineapple, and crisp grapes, complemented by crunchy peanuts and a tangy dressing. Perfect for light lunches or gatherings, it balances savory and fruity flavors, making it a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish suitable for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine diced cooked chicken, drained pineapple chunks, seedless green grapes, chopped celery, and coarsely chopped dry salted peanuts in a large bowl.
- Stir in tarragon leaves.
- In a separate small bowl, mix nonfat mayonnaise, lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons of pineapple juice.
- Gently fold the dressing into the chicken mixture until well combined.
- Serve on a bed of lettuce, garnished with parsley or small celery leaves.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, you can substitute nonfat Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise. If you want extra crunch, consider adding diced apples or bell peppers to the salad. Be cautious with the salt, as salted peanuts already contribute to the seasoning. This chicken salad also pairs beautifully with Glazed Chicken Breasts for a more filling meal.
Serving Suggestions
This Regal Chicken Salad is perfect for a light lunch or picnic. Serve it on a bed of crisp lettuce or in a sandwich. It also pairs well with a side of Sunday Potatoes for a complete meal. Consider adding some fresh fruit or a light vinaigrette on the side for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the salad's texture, avoid adding the dressing until you're ready to serve. If reheating, gently warm the chicken separately and then mix in fresh ingredients before serving to keep it fresh.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Regal Chicken Salad contains roughly 75 calories, with 3g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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 recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds flavor to the salad. Just ensure it's diced into bite-sized pieces for even mixing. The seasoning from the rotisserie chicken can enhance the overall taste.
Is there a vegan substitute for the mayonnaise?
Yes, you can use vegan mayonnaise or avocado as a creamy substitute. Both options will provide a similar texture without compromising flavor, making the salad suitable for a vegan diet. Adjust the seasonings accordingly to balance the flavors.
How can I make this chicken salad more tangy?
To add more tanginess, increase the amount of lemon juice in the dressing or incorporate some apple cider vinegar. You could also experiment with adding diced pickles or a spoonful of mustard to the mix for an extra zing.
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).