Fruited Chicken Salad

Fruited Chicken Salad Recipe with Mandarin Oranges, Grapes, and Nuts

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Fruited Chicken Salad is a delicious and refreshing dish that combines the savory flavors of chicken with the sweetness of fruits like mandarin oranges and grapes. This salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a summer barbecue.

History

The origins of Fruited Chicken Salad are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have originated in the United States in the mid-20th century. This salad became popular as a way to use up leftover chicken and incorporate fresh fruits for a healthy and flavorful dish.

Ingredients

3 cups of diced cooked chicken
1 can of drained mandarin oranges
1 cup of green seedless grapes
1 cup of white seedless grapes
1 cup of chopped celery
1 cup of mayonnaise
0.5 cup of whipped cream
1 cup of chopped nuts

How to prepare

In a large bowl, combine all ingredients and toss until well mixed.
In a separate bowl, combine mayonnaise and whipped cream, then mix into the salad.
Serve with greens or plain.

Variations

Add diced apples or pineapple for extra sweetness and crunch.
Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter dressing.
Mix in some curry powder or cumin for a spicy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to dice the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces for easy eating.

- Use a combination of white and red grapes for a colorful presentation.

- Feel free to add other fruits like apples or pineapple for added sweetness and texture.

- Adjust the amount of mayonnaise and whipped cream to your liking for a creamier or lighter dressing.

Serving Suggestions

Fruited Chicken Salad can be served on a bed of greens for a light and refreshing meal. It can also be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the chicken thoroughly before dicing it for the salad.

- Drain the mandarin oranges and grapes well to prevent the salad from becoming too watery.

- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use turkey or tofu instead of chicken for a vegetarian option.

- Substitute almonds or pecans for the chopped nuts.

- Use sour cream or yogurt instead of whipped cream for a tangier dressing.

Make Ahead Tips

Fruited Chicken Salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to add the nuts right before serving to keep them crunchy.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Fruited Chicken Salad in a large bowl or on individual plates garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or mint. You can also sprinkle some extra nuts on top for added texture.

Pairing Recommendations

Fruited Chicken Salad pairs well with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer. It also goes well with a side of crusty bread or crackers.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Fruited Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply let the salad come to room temperature or enjoy it cold.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Fruited Chicken Salad contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Fruited Chicken Salad contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Fruited Chicken Salad contains approximately 20 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Fruited Chicken Salad contains approximately 25 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Fruited Chicken Salad is a good source of vitamin C from the mandarin oranges and grapes. It also provides essential minerals like potassium and magnesium from the nuts.

Alergens

This recipe contains nuts and mayonnaise, which may be allergens for some individuals. Be sure to check for any allergies before serving.

Summary

Fruited Chicken Salad is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious option for a meal.

Summary

Fruited Chicken Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a summer barbecue. With a mix of savory chicken, sweet fruits, and crunchy nuts, this salad is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Eleanor in her charming countryside home. Eleanor and I had known each other since we were young girls, and we had always shared a love for cooking and trying out new recipes.

On this particular day, Eleanor had prepared a delicious lunch for us to enjoy in her garden. As we sat at her rustic wooden table, surrounded by blooming flowers and chirping birds, she brought out a large bowl of the most beautiful and colorful salad I had ever seen. It was a Fruited Chicken Salad, filled with juicy grapes, crunchy apples, and tender pieces of chicken, all coated in a creamy dressing.

I took one bite of the salad and instantly fell in love with the unique blend of flavors and textures. I asked Eleanor for the recipe, and she smiled warmly before telling me that it was a family recipe that had been passed down through generations.

Eleanor and I spent the rest of the afternoon chatting and savoring the salad, and as I left her home that day, I knew that I had to learn how to make this dish myself. I wanted to share it with my own family and friends, and create memories just like the ones Eleanor and I had made that day.

I returned home and immediately set to work recreating the Fruited Chicken Salad. I rummaged through my kitchen, gathering the necessary ingredients - chicken breast, grapes, apples, mayonnaise, and a few other key components. I followed Eleanor's instructions as best as I could remember, and after a few hours of chopping, mixing, and tasting, I finally had a bowl of Fruited Chicken Salad that resembled the one I had enjoyed at Eleanor's.

I called Eleanor to share my success with her, and she was thrilled to hear that I had been able to recreate the salad. She reminded me of the special memories we had made that day, and how food has a way of bringing people together and creating lasting bonds.

Since that day, I have made Fruited Chicken Salad countless times for my family and friends. It has become a staple at family gatherings, potlucks, and picnics. Each time I make it, I think of Eleanor and the wonderful day we spent together, enjoying good food and even better company.

I have also shared the recipe with others who have fallen in love with the salad just as I did. I have written it down on recipe cards, typed it out in emails, and even demonstrated how to make it in my own kitchen. The joy and satisfaction I get from seeing others enjoy this dish is immeasurable.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the journey that led me to discover the Fruited Chicken Salad recipe, I am filled with gratitude for the friendships I have formed, the memories I have created, and the delicious food I have enjoyed. Food truly has a way of bringing people together, and I am so grateful to have stumbled upon this recipe that has become a symbol of love, friendship, and connection in my life.