Walnut And Wild Rice Chicken Salad
A creamy and flavorful chicken salad featuring wild rice, walnuts, and a lemon-yogurt dressing, perfect for a light lunch or picnic, suitable for various dietary preferences.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook rice according to package directions; let it cool.
- In a large bowl, combine yogurt, mayonnaise, sliced green onions, olive oil, grated lemon peel, salt, lemon juice, and pepper.
- Stir in the cooled rice, shredded cooked chicken, and walnuts.
- Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt. If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken makes an excellent substitute for shredded cooked chicken. Feel free to add some diced apples or grapes for a touch of sweetness. To enhance the flavor, try adding a pinch of garlic powder or some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill.
Serving Suggestions
This Walnut and Wild Rice Chicken Salad is best served chilled. It pairs beautifully with a light side such as a mixed green salad or some crusty bread. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside Vegetable Cheddar Soup or as a filling in wraps. Garnish with extra walnuts and sliced green onions for an appealing presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the salad's freshness, it's best to keep the dressing separate until ready to serve. If reheating, use the microwave in short intervals to avoid drying out the chicken and rice. Stir well before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Walnut And Wild Rice Chicken Salad contains roughly 95 calories, with 4g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1297mg per serving (56% 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 make this chicken salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. Just be sure to store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, making it even more delicious when served the next day.
What can I substitute for wild rice?
If you can't find wild rice, consider using brown rice or even quinoa as a substitute. Both options will provide a similar texture and will absorb the flavors of the dressing well, making them perfect for this salad.
Can I add other ingredients to this salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the salad by adding ingredients like diced celery, bell peppers, or even dried cranberries for a sweet contrast. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to tailor it to your taste preferences.
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).