Terry'S Chicken Salad
Terry's Chicken Salad is a creamy, savory dish featuring tender chopped chicken combined with crunchy celery and onion, all bound together with mayonnaise and a touch of cream cheese. Pineapple tidbits add a hint of sweetness, while pecans provide a delightful crunch. Perfect for light lunches or picnics, it appeals to those who enjoy flavorful, textured salads.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl.
- Serve with crackers or your choice of bread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for half of the mayo. You can also add diced apples or grapes for a sweet crunch. If you prefer a bit of spice, consider adding diced jalapeños. For a creamier texture, blend in more cream cheese. This recipe is versatile enough to be served cold or warm, making it a great option for outdoor picnics or casual gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
Terry's Chicken Salad pairs beautifully with crackers or your choice of bread for a satisfying meal. Consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced plate. It also makes a delightful filling for sandwiches or wraps, perfect for lunchboxes or picnics.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place the salad in a microwave-safe dish and heat for 30-second intervals until warmed through. However, for the best flavor and texture, it's recommended to enjoy this dish cold.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Terry'S Chicken Salad contains roughly 431 calories, with 26g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (53% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron.
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 chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover roasted chicken or even store-bought rotisserie chicken works great in this salad. Just shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces before mixing with the other ingredients.
Is it possible to make this chicken salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Terry's Chicken Salad a day in advance. Just mix all the ingredients and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it taste even better the next day.
What can I substitute for pecans?
If you're not a fan of pecans or have a nut allergy, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds make excellent substitutes. You could also use chopped walnuts or almonds for a similar crunchy texture.
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).