Walnut Chicken Salad
A refreshing chicken salad with toasted walnuts and fresh cantaloupe slices, perfect for a light lunch or brunch, combining savory, nutty, and sweet flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the prepared chicken salad, chopped toasted walnuts, Dijon mustard, and crushed tarragon; mix well.
- Cut each cantaloupe or honeydew melon quarter lengthwise into 4 slices.
- Arrange 4 slices on each of 4 spinach-lined plates.
- Spoon 1/2 cup of the chicken mixture onto each plate next to the cantaloupe slices.
- Garnish with walnut halves before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a tablespoon of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to the chicken salad mixture. You can substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds if desired. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can also enhance the flavor. If using leftover chicken, make sure it's well-seasoned to elevate the dish. This salad pairs beautifully with Veg-All Cheesy Chowder for a delightful meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Walnut Chicken Salad on a bed of fresh spinach for added nutrition and a pop of color. It pairs well with crusty bread or crackers for a light lunch. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it alongside a side of Vegetable And Rice Primavera for a well-rounded dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld as it sits, making it even tastier. Reheat only the chicken salad portion gently in the microwave if you prefer it warm, but it's delicious served cold, especially during warmer months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Walnut Chicken Salad contains roughly 180 calories, with 5g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (54% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 the salad?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a convenient option that adds flavor and saves time. Just shred the chicken and mix it with the other ingredients as directed. This can make your preparation quicker, especially on busy days.
How can I make this salad more filling?
To make the salad more filling, you can add diced avocado or serve it in a whole grain wrap. Adding additional vegetables like diced celery or bell peppers can also introduce more texture and nutrition, making it a heartier meal.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this Walnut Chicken Salad is great for meal prep! The ingredients can be mixed in advance, and the salad will keep well in the fridge for a few days. Just store the chicken salad separately from the melon until you're ready to serve to maintain freshness.
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).