Polynesian Chicken Salad

Polynesian Chicken Salad Recipe - Delicious and Healthy Salad with Fresh Ingredients

Region / culture: Polynesia | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Polynesian Chicken Salad is a delicious and refreshing dish that combines the flavors of chicken, pineapple, and Chinese vegetables with a tangy dressing. This salad is perfect for a light lunch or dinner on a hot summer day.

History

The origins of Polynesian Chicken Salad are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have been inspired by the flavors of Polynesian cuisine. The combination of chicken, pineapple, and Asian vegetables is a popular one in many Polynesian dishes.

Ingredients

4 cups cooked white or brown rice (cooked in chicken broth), cooled
2 cups cooked chicken breast strips
1 x 14 oz (397 g) can mixed chinese vegetables, drained
1.5 cups pineapple tidbits
1 cup diagonally sliced celery
0.5 cup sliced green onions
3 tbsp diced pimento
0.5 cup mayonnaise
1 clove garlic, minced
1 tsp minced fresh ginger
0.5 tsp ground black pepper
0.5 tsp dry mustard
2 tbsp soy sauce
lettuce leaves
1 x 3 oz (85 g) can chow mein or rice noodles
additional soy sauce (optional)

How to prepare

Combine rice, chicken, Chinese vegetables, pineapple, celery, onions, and pimento in a large bowl.
Whisk together mayonnaise, garlic, ginger, pepper, mustard, and soy sauce.
Stir the mixture into the rice; toss lightly.
Serve on lettuce leaves and garnish with noodles.
Serve with additional soy sauce, if desired.

Variations

You can add nuts, such as cashews or almonds, for added crunch and flavor. You can also add a splash of pineapple juice to the dressing for a sweeter taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to let the cooked chicken and rice cool completely before mixing them with the other ingredients to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.

- You can customize this salad by adding your favorite vegetables or fruits, such as bell peppers, water chestnuts, or mandarin oranges.

- For a healthier version, you can use Greek yogurt or a light mayonnaise in place of regular mayonnaise.

Serving Suggestions

Polynesian Chicken Salad can be served on a bed of lettuce leaves or with a side of steamed rice for a more filling meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a delicious Polynesian Chicken Salad is to cook the chicken and rice just right, so they are tender and flavorful. Be sure to season the salad well with the garlic, ginger, and soy sauce for an authentic Polynesian flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use turkey or tofu in place of chicken for a vegetarian version of this salad. You can also use quinoa or couscous in place of rice for a different texture.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the chicken and rice ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to assemble the salad. The dressing can also be made in advance and stored in an airtight container.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Polynesian Chicken Salad in a large bowl or on individual plates for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or edible flowers for an extra touch of elegance.

Pairing Recommendations

Polynesian Chicken Salad pairs well with a light and fruity white wine, such as a Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc. You can also serve it with a tropical fruit cocktail for a refreshing drink.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Polynesian Chicken Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave the salad for a few minutes until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Polynesian Chicken Salad contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Polynesian Chicken Salad contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Polynesian Chicken Salad contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Polynesian Chicken Salad contains approximately 20 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Polynesian Chicken Salad is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy and mayonnaise, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Polynesian Chicken Salad is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Polynesian Chicken Salad is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light and refreshing meal. With a balance of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats, this salad is a satisfying and healthy option for any occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting a friend who had just returned from a trip to Hawaii. She brought back with her a cookbook filled with exotic recipes from the Polynesian islands. As I flipped through the pages, one recipe in particular caught my eye - Polynesian Chicken Salad.

I had never tried anything quite like it before, with its unique combination of flavors and ingredients. I knew right away that I had to learn how to make it. My friend was more than happy to share the recipe with me, and so began my journey into the world of Polynesian cuisine.

The first step was marinating the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and brown sugar. This would infuse the meat with a rich, savory flavor that would complement the other ingredients in the salad perfectly. As the chicken sat in the marinade, I started preparing the rest of the salad.

I chopped up a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables - pineapple, mango, red bell pepper, and scallions. These would add a burst of sweetness and crunch to the salad, balancing out the rich flavors of the chicken. I also toasted some coconut flakes and macadamia nuts to sprinkle on top for an extra layer of texture and flavor.

Once the chicken had marinated for a few hours, I grilled it until it was perfectly cooked and had a nice charred exterior. The smell of the chicken cooking filled the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation of the final dish. I let the chicken cool slightly before slicing it into bite-sized pieces and tossing it with the fruits and vegetables in a large bowl.

The final step was to make the dressing. I combined coconut milk, lime juice, honey, and a touch of curry powder in a small bowl and whisked it together until it was smooth and creamy. This dressing would tie all the flavors of the salad together, adding a tangy sweetness that would make every bite sing.

I poured the dressing over the salad and gently tossed everything together, making sure each piece of chicken and fruit was coated in the creamy coconut-lime goodness. As I took my first bite, I knew I had discovered something truly special. The flavors danced on my tongue, each bite a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy.

From that day on, Polynesian Chicken Salad became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I would make it for family gatherings, potlucks, and any time I wanted to transport myself to a tropical paradise with just one bite. It never failed to impress, with its vibrant colors, bold flavors, and unique ingredients that set it apart from any other salad I had ever tasted.

As the years went by, I continued to experiment with the recipe, adding my own twists and variations to make it my own. Sometimes I would add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for extra crunch, or a handful of fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness. No matter how I tweaked it, the essence of the dish remained the same - a celebration of the flavors of the Polynesian islands, brought to life in a simple yet stunning salad.

I often think back to that first time I saw the recipe for Polynesian Chicken Salad, and how it sparked a love affair with a cuisine that was exotic, vibrant, and utterly delicious. It taught me that cooking is not just about following a recipe, but about embracing new flavors, trying new things, and making a dish your own. And for that, I am forever grateful.