Sweet and Sour Chicken Salad

Sweet and Sour Chicken Salad Recipe with Celery, Snow Peas, and Red Bell Peppers

| Servings: 4

Introduction

Sweet and Sour Chicken Salad is a delicious and refreshing dish that combines tender chicken with crisp vegetables and a tangy dressing. This recipe is perfect for a light and satisfying meal.

History

The origins of Sweet and Sour Chicken Salad can be traced back to Chinese cuisine, where sweet and sour flavors are commonly used in dishes. This salad has been adapted and modified over the years to suit different tastes and preferences.

Ingredients

0.75 lb (340 g) boneless skinless chicken breasts, cooked and cut into 2-inch cubes
1 cup celery, diagonally sliced
0.67 cup snow peas, trimmed
0.33 cup red bell peppers, seeded and diced
0.67 cup apples, unpeeled and diced (we use Gala)
2 tbsp vinegar
2 tbsp canola oil
2 tbsp sugar
0.75 tsp paprika
0.75 tsp celery seeds
salt and pepper, to taste

How to prepare

Combine all the salad ingredients.
Whisk together the dressing ingredients.
Pour the dressing over the salad and serve it on a bed of greens.

Variations

Add pineapple chunks for a tropical twist.
Use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different protein option.
Experiment with different vegetables such as carrots, cucumbers, or bell peppers.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the chicken thoroughly before adding it to the salad.

- Use fresh and crisp vegetables for the best texture and flavor.

- Adjust the amount of sugar and vinegar in the dressing to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Sweet and Sour Chicken Salad on a bed of greens for a light and refreshing meal. It can also be served with rice or noodles for a more substantial dish.

Cooking Techniques

Cook the chicken by grilling, baking, or sautéing.

- Blanch the snow peas for a vibrant green color and crisp texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar in the dressing.

- Substitute rice vinegar for the vinegar in the dressing.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the salad ingredients and dressing ahead of time, but wait to combine them until just before serving to keep the vegetables crisp.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Sweet and Sour Chicken Salad in a large bowl or on individual plates for an elegant presentation. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped peanuts for added texture.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this salad with a light and crisp white wine such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. For a non-alcoholic option, try a sparkling water with a splash of citrus juice.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Sweet and Sour Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or enjoy cold.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

This recipe contains approximately 250 calories per serving.

Carbohydrates

This recipe contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

This recipe contains approximately 10 grams of fats per serving.

Proteins

This recipe contains approximately 25 grams of proteins per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

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

Alergens

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

Summary

Sweet and Sour Chicken Salad is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Sweet and Sour Chicken Salad is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light and satisfying meal. With a balance of sweet, sour, and savory flavors, this salad is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe for Sweet and Sour Chicken Salad. It was many years ago, during a family gathering at my cousin's house. The table was filled with all sorts of delicious dishes, but one in particular caught my eye - a colorful and flavorful chicken salad that was unlike anything I had ever tasted before.

I immediately asked my cousin for the recipe, and she graciously shared it with me. As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I could tell that this was a special dish that required a lot of care and attention to detail. I couldn't wait to try it out for myself and share it with my own family.

Over the years, I have made this Sweet and Sour Chicken Salad countless times, each time adding my own little touch to make it truly my own. I have shared it with friends and neighbors, who have all raved about its unique and delicious flavor. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, a go-to dish for potlucks, picnics, and family gatherings.

The secret to this Sweet and Sour Chicken Salad lies in the balance of flavors. The sweetness of the pineapple and raisins, the tanginess of the vinegar and mustard, and the savory goodness of the chicken all come together to create a dish that is both refreshing and satisfying. The crunch of the celery and almonds adds a wonderful texture that complements the softness of the chicken perfectly.

To make this dish, start by poaching boneless, skinless chicken breasts in a mixture of water, vinegar, and salt until cooked through. Once cooled, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside. In a large bowl, combine diced pineapple, raisins, chopped celery, and slivered almonds. In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, mustard, honey, and a touch of lemon juice until smooth and creamy.

Gently fold the shredded chicken into the mayonnaise mixture, making sure to coat each piece evenly. Then, add the chicken mixture to the bowl of fruits and vegetables, tossing gently to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and refrigerate for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together.

When ready to serve, garnish the Sweet and Sour Chicken Salad with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for a burst of freshness. This dish is best enjoyed cold, straight from the refrigerator, on a hot summer day.

I have fond memories of making this Sweet and Sour Chicken Salad for my grandchildren when they were young. They would eagerly help me in the kitchen, chopping vegetables and mixing the dressing, their faces lighting up with excitement as they tasted the final product. Even now, as adults, they still request this dish whenever they come to visit, a testament to its enduring popularity.

I have always believed that food has the power to bring people together, to create lasting memories and forge strong bonds. This Sweet and Sour Chicken Salad is a perfect example of that - a dish that has become a symbol of love and togetherness in my family.

As I grow older, I find comfort in knowing that this recipe will be passed down through the generations, bringing joy and happiness to my loved ones for years to come. I am grateful for the day I stumbled upon this recipe, for it has truly enriched my life in more ways than I could have ever imagined.