CAFE CHICKEN SALAD

I adore chicken salad and it is definitely having its moment right now!  I’ve tried many recipes over the years and the time has come for me to officially share MY recipe with you!

Very easy to make!  I’ve included variations, and additional ingredients that you can add to make it your own favorite!  

Serve on your bread of choice or over salad greens! ENJOY! :)

CAFE CHICKEN SALAD

Serves 4-6

2 lbs. skinless/boneless chicken breasts (see notes below on how to poach)

1 cup mayonnaise (I prefer Duke’s)

1 tablespoon dijon mustard

1 cup chopped tart apple with skin on (Fuji or Honeycrisp)

2 stalks celery, diced

3 green onions (green and white parts, finely chopped)

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

1 tablespoon chopped tarragon (optional, but so good!)

1 lemon, juiced

Salt and pepper to taste

Bread of choice

Optional additions:

½ cup chopped almonds or pecans

½ cup dried sweetened cranberries

How to make poached chicken:

Place the chicken breasts in a wide pot or pan and cover with cold water.  Season the water with salt. Optionally, you can use low-sodium chicken broth (my preferred method)

Turn the heat to medium until it reaches a gentle simmer.  Then reduce the heat back to low and cover the pan.  Let the chicken simmer for 8-12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160-165 degrees fahrenheit.  Remove the chicken and let it rest for about 10 minutes.  Trim as needed to remove any fat.  Then chill in the fridge.Transfer the cooled chicken to a cutting board and dice into ½-inch pieces or shred with 2 forks.

Slice and dice the celery, apple, green onion, parsley and tarragon.  Add those ingredients to a mixing bowl along with the chopped chicken, mayonnaise, dijon mustard and the lemon juice.  Season with salt and pepper.

Mix everything together until it’s well combined.  Let it chill in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.  At least 1 hour if possible.

Serve on the bread of your choice!  Croissants, white bread, ciabatta, whole grain or my favorite Wheat Berry Bread :)  I also love to serve this on top of my favorite salad greens.