Lemony chicken salad

Lemony Chicken Salad Recipe - Ingredients and Instructions

Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Lemony chicken salad is a refreshing and light dish that is perfect for a summer meal or a quick and easy lunch. The combination of tangy lemon juice, savory chicken, and fresh herbs makes this salad a delicious and satisfying option for any occasion.

History

The origins of lemony chicken salad are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have originated in Mediterranean cuisine, where lemon is a common ingredient in many dishes. The bright and citrusy flavor of lemon pairs perfectly with the tender and juicy chicken, creating a dish that is both flavorful and nutritious.

Ingredients

1 can of low-sodium chicken broth (13.75 oz (390 g))
2 packages of sugar-free jell-o lemon gelatin (4 serving size each)
1 cup of cold water
1 can of crushed pineapple, undrained (in unsweetened juice)
2 tbsp of lemon juice
0.5 tsp of dried tarragon leaves, crushed
dash of white pepper
1.5 cups of cubed cooked chicken breast
0.5 cup of chopped parsley
0.25 cup of chopped red pepper

How to prepare

Bring the chicken broth to a boil in a small saucepan.
Completely dissolve the gelatin in the boiling broth.
Add water, pineapple, lemon juice, tarragon, and white pepper.
Refrigerate until slightly thickened.
Stir in the chicken, celery, and red pepper.
Spoon the mixture into 4 individual plastic containers or serving dishes.
Refrigerate until firm, approximately 2 hours.
Diabetic exchange (per serving): 2 lean meat, 1 vegetable.
Nutritional information (per serving): 160 calories, 45 mg cholesterol, 450 mg sodium, 3 g fat, 11 g carbohydrate, 22 g protein.
Recipe sourced from the Jell-O Sugar Free Cookbook.

Variations

Add diced avocado or cucumber for extra freshness.
Substitute cooked shrimp or tofu for the chicken for a different protein option.
Mix in some cooked quinoa or couscous for added texture and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt content of the dish.

- Make sure to completely dissolve the gelatin in the boiling broth to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.

- Refrigerate the salad until slightly thickened before adding the chicken and vegetables to allow the flavors to meld together.

- For a more intense lemon flavor, add extra lemon juice or zest to the salad.

Serving Suggestions

Lemony chicken salad can be served on a bed of mixed greens, in a sandwich, or as a topping for crackers or crostini.

Cooking Techniques

The key cooking technique for this recipe is to dissolve the gelatin in the boiling chicken broth to create a creamy and smooth texture for the salad.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version of the salad.

- Substitute fresh herbs like basil or mint for the tarragon for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Lemony chicken salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the salad with fresh herbs, lemon slices, or a sprinkle of lemon zest for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Lemony chicken salad pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover lemony chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of lemony chicken salad contains approximately 160 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of lemony chicken salad contains approximately 11 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of lemony chicken salad contains approximately 3 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of lemony chicken salad contains approximately 22 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Lemony chicken salad is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains chicken and gelatin, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Lemony chicken salad is a low-calorie, high-protein dish that is perfect for a light and healthy meal.

Summary

Lemony chicken salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light and refreshing meal. With its bright and citrusy flavors, tender chicken, and fresh herbs, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy memory. It was a warm summer day, and I was rummaging through an old cookbook that belonged to my mother. As I flipped through the yellowed pages, a recipe for lemony chicken salad caught my eye. I had never tried making chicken salad before, but the combination of tangy lemon and tender chicken sounded too delicious to resist.

I decided to give it a try, so I gathered the ingredients and got to work in the kitchen. The recipe called for cooked chicken, fresh lemon juice, mayonnaise, celery, and a few other simple ingredients. As I chopped and mixed, the aroma of lemon and chicken filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

Once the salad was finished, I took a small taste and was immediately hooked. The zesty lemon flavor paired perfectly with the creamy mayonnaise and tender chicken. I knew I had stumbled upon a winning recipe, one that would become a staple in my cooking repertoire for years to come.

As I continued to make the lemony chicken salad, I started experimenting with different variations. Sometimes I would add sliced almonds for a bit of crunch, or toss in some dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness. Each time I made the salad, it brought back the fond memory of that first discovery and the joy of finding a new favorite recipe.

Over the years, I shared the recipe with friends and family, who all raved about its delicious flavor. It became a go-to dish for potlucks, picnics, and family gatherings. Whenever I made it, I would think back to that sunny day when I stumbled upon the recipe in my mother's old cookbook and felt grateful for the culinary treasures it held.

As time passed, I learned that the recipe for lemony chicken salad had been passed down through generations in my family. My great-grandmother had learned it from a dear friend who had traveled to Europe and brought back the recipe as a souvenir. It had been a cherished dish in our family ever since, each generation adding their own twist to make it their own.

I felt honored to be a part of this culinary tradition, to carry on the legacy of making this beloved dish. It was more than just a recipe to me; it was a connection to my past, a reminder of the love and memories shared around the table.

As I grew older, I continued to make the lemony chicken salad for special occasions and everyday meals alike. It never failed to bring a smile to the faces of those who tasted it, a reminder of the simple joys of good food and shared moments.

And so, as I sit here now, reflecting on the years that have passed and the memories made in my kitchen, I am grateful for the discovery of that lemony chicken salad recipe. It has brought me joy, comfort, and a sense of connection to my roots. And as I pass it on to future generations, I know that it will continue to be a beloved dish in our family for years to come.