Dilled Chicken Rice Salad

Dilled Chicken Rice Salad Recipe - Flavorful & Nutritious American Dish

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Dilled Chicken Rice Salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. This salad combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and crisp vegetables with a tangy dill dressing for a delicious and satisfying meal.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on traditional chicken and rice dishes, incorporating fresh herbs and vegetables for added flavor and nutrition. The combination of dill, garlic, and Parmesan cheese gives this salad a unique and zesty taste that is sure to please your taste buds.

Ingredients

3 cups cooked rice
1.5 cups cooked chicken, cut into strips
2 medium tomatoes, seeded and chopped
0.5 cup thinly sliced celery
0.25 cup sliced green onions
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
3 tbsp red wine vinegar
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp dijon mustard
2 tbsp fresh dill or 1.5 tsp dried dill weed
2 cloves garlic, minced
0.5 tsp salt
0.5 tsp ground black pepper
2 tsp grated parmesan cheese (optional)

How to prepare

In a large bowl, combine rice, chicken, tomatoes, celery, onions, and parsley; set aside.
In a small jar with a lid, combine vinegar, oil, mustard, dill, garlic, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese.
Shake the jar to combine the ingredients.
Pour the dressing over the rice mixture and toss lightly.
Cover and chill the mixture for 1 to 2 hours.

Variations

Add some diced avocado or cucumber for a creamy texture.
Swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
Use quinoa or couscous instead of rice for a different grain base.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the rice according to package instructions to ensure it is fluffy and not mushy.

- For a shortcut, you can use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own chicken.

- Feel free to customize this salad with your favorite vegetables or herbs for added variety.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Dilled Chicken Rice Salad on a bed of lettuce or spinach for added freshness. You can also top it with some toasted nuts or seeds for extra crunch.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making this salad is to cook the rice and chicken separately and then combine them with the vegetables and dressing. This ensures that each ingredient retains its individual flavor and texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have dill weed, you can use dried dill or another fresh herb like parsley or cilantro. You can also use lemon juice instead of vinegar for a different tangy flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the rice, chicken, and dressing ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply combine all the ingredients and toss with the dressing.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the salad with some extra dill sprigs or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a beautiful presentation. Serve it in a large bowl or on individual plates for a more elegant look.

Pairing Recommendations

This Dilled Chicken Rice Salad pairs well with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer. You can also serve it with some crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave the salad for a few minutes or enjoy it cold.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

This recipe contains approximately 250 calories per serving.

Carbohydrates

This recipe contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

This recipe contains approximately 7 grams of fat per serving.

Proteins

This recipe contains approximately 20 grams of protein per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (Parmesan cheese) and may contain gluten (depending on the type of rice used).

Summary

Overall, this recipe is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Dilled Chicken Rice Salad is a versatile and delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its fresh ingredients and zesty dressing, this salad is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Dilled Chicken Rice Salad. It was a warm summer day, and I was attending a potluck picnic at the park with some of my closest friends. As we all gathered around the checkered tablecloth, each unveiling our homemade dishes, I couldn't help but feel a pang of insecurity. Everyone seemed to have brought their signature dishes, dishes that were passed down from generation to generation, dishes that were reminiscent of childhood memories and family gatherings. And there I was, with nothing but a simple fruit salad in hand.

As I scanned the table, my eyes fell upon a tantalizing dish that stood out amongst the sea of casseroles and salads. It was a vibrant medley of chicken, rice, and fresh herbs, dressed in a creamy dill-infused dressing. The aroma alone was enough to make my mouth water. I approached the creator of this masterpiece, a woman with kind eyes and a warm smile, and asked her for the recipe.

She graciously obliged, explaining each step with patience and enthusiasm. She told me that she had learned this recipe from her grandmother, who had learned it from a dear friend many years ago. The dish was a staple at family gatherings and summer picnics, a crowd-pleaser that never failed to impress.

I hurried home that evening, eager to recreate the Dilled Chicken Rice Salad in my own kitchen. As I gathered the ingredients and began to cook, I felt a sense of connection to the woman at the picnic. I imagined her grandmother teaching her the recipe, passing down the tradition with love and care. And as I took my first bite of the finished dish, I knew that this recipe would become a treasured part of my own culinary repertoire.

Over the years, I have made the Dilled Chicken Rice Salad countless times, tweaking the recipe to suit my own tastes and preferences. Sometimes I add extra lemon juice for a tangy kick, or swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian twist. But no matter how I choose to customize it, the dish never fails to transport me back to that sunny day at the park, surrounded by friends and good food.

As I sit down to write this recipe for future generations, I can't help but feel grateful for the serendipitous encounter that led me to discover it. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with my loved ones, to honor the traditions and memories that have shaped me. And in this simple yet delicious dish, I have found a new way to carry on that legacy.

So here it is, my recipe for Dilled Chicken Rice Salad, a dish that holds a special place in my heart. May it bring joy and nourishment to all who taste it, just as it has for me and my family.