Maple Chicken Salad

Maple Chicken Salad Recipe from New England | Ingredients: Chicken, Celery, Cranberries, Walnuts & More

Region / culture: New England | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Maple Chicken Salad is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the sweetness of maple syrup with the savory flavors of chicken, celery, and walnuts. This salad is perfect for a light lunch or dinner and is sure to impress your family and friends.

History

The exact origins of Maple Chicken Salad are unknown, but it is believed to have originated in North America, where maple syrup is a popular ingredient in many dishes. This salad is a modern twist on traditional chicken salad recipes, adding a unique flavor profile with the addition of maple syrup.

Ingredients

2.5 cups cubed cooked chicken breasts (leftover roast chicken works well and also rotisserie chicken)
1 cup cubed cooked chicken thigh pieces (leftover roast chicken works well and also rotisserie chicken)
1 cup chopped celery
2 tbsp chopped red onions
0.5 cup dried cranberries
0.25 cup chopped flat leaf parsley
0.25 cup chopped walnuts, toasted
red leaf lettuce leaves
Dressing
0.25 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp maple syrup (preferably medium grade)
2 tsp honey dijon mustard
0.25 tsp curry powder

How to prepare

1. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked cubed chicken, celery, onion, dried cranberries, parsley, and walnuts. Stir to combine.
2. In a smaller bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients.
3. Pour the dressing mixture over the chicken salad and toss to thoroughly coat.
4. Cover and refrigerate for a few hours before serving (you may refrigerate up to 24 hours before serving).
5. Line individual plates with red lettuce leaves. Spoon the chicken salad onto the lettuce leaves and serve.

Variations

Add in diced apples or grapes for extra sweetness and crunch.
Substitute the chicken with turkey or tofu for a different protein option.
Mix in some cooked quinoa or brown rice for added fiber and nutrients.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to toast the walnuts before adding them to the salad to enhance their flavor.

- For a healthier option, you can use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise in the dressing.

- Feel free to add in additional ingredients such as diced apples or grapes for extra sweetness and crunch.

Serving Suggestions

Maple Chicken Salad can be served on its own as a light meal or as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. It pairs well with a side of fresh fruit or a simple green salad.

Cooking Techniques

Toasting the walnuts before adding them to the salad enhances their flavor and adds a nice crunch. Be sure to watch them carefully as they can burn quickly.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have maple syrup on hand, you can substitute honey or agave nectar for a similar sweetness. You can also use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise for a healthier dressing option.

Make Ahead Tips

Maple Chicken Salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before serving. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Maple Chicken Salad on a bed of red leaf lettuce leaves for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with additional chopped parsley or dried cranberries for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Maple Chicken Salad pairs well with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with a sparkling water infused with fresh lemon or lime.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Maple Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave for a few seconds until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Maple Chicken Salad contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

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

Fats

Each serving of Maple Chicken Salad contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Maple Chicken Salad contains approximately 20 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Maple Chicken Salad is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains nuts (walnuts) and mayonnaise, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

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

Summary

Maple Chicken Salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. With a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, this salad is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Maple Chicken Salad. It was during a summer trip to visit my cousin in Vermont many years ago. My cousin, Anna, was known for her delicious homemade meals and always had a knack for creating unique and flavorful dishes.

One evening, as we sat around the dinner table, Anna served us this beautiful salad that was a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors. The tender chicken was marinated in a sweet maple glaze and paired with crisp lettuce, crunchy pecans, and juicy grapes. It was love at first bite, and I knew I had to get my hands on the recipe.

After dinner, I asked Anna how she made the salad, and she graciously shared the recipe with me. She explained that she had learned the recipe from an old friend who had lived in Vermont for many years and had perfected the art of cooking with maple syrup. I was thrilled to have the opportunity to recreate this delicious dish in my own kitchen.

As soon as I returned home, I gathered all the ingredients I needed to make the Maple Chicken Salad. I marinated the chicken in a mixture of maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and garlic, and let it sit in the fridge for a few hours to soak up all the flavors. While the chicken was marinating, I prepared the rest of the salad ingredients – washing and chopping the lettuce, toasting the pecans, and slicing the grapes.

Once everything was ready, I grilled the marinated chicken until it was perfectly cooked and had a nice caramelized crust. I then let it cool slightly before slicing it into bite-sized pieces. As I assembled the salad, I drizzled a little extra maple dressing over the top for an extra burst of flavor.

When I took my first bite of the Maple Chicken Salad, I was transported back to that summer evening in Vermont. The combination of flavors was just as delicious as I remembered – the sweetness of the maple syrup paired perfectly with the savory chicken and crunchy pecans. It was a dish that was sure to become a family favorite.

Over the years, I have made the Maple Chicken Salad countless times for family gatherings, potlucks, and dinner parties. Each time I serve it, it never fails to impress and always receives rave reviews. I have even passed the recipe on to friends and family who have all fallen in love with it just as I did.

As I continue to cook and experiment with new recipes, the Maple Chicken Salad remains a staple in my repertoire. It is a dish that holds a special place in my heart, reminding me of the time I spent with my cousin in Vermont and the joy of discovering a new and delicious recipe. I am forever grateful for stumbling upon this gem of a dish and for the memories it has brought me over the years.