Chicken Salad Over Mixed Greens

Ingredients

• 283 g (10 oz)cooked chicken breast, drained
• 45 ml (3 Tbsp)mayonnaise
• 30 ml (2 Tbsp)sliced almonds
• 30 ml (2 Tbsp)dried fruit
• to tastesalt and pepper

Instructions

1. 1

   Mix the salad

   Put all the salad ingredients in a large bowl and mix until combined.

2. 2

   Chill before serving

   Keep the chicken salad in the refrigerator before serving.

3. 3

   Serve the salad

   Serve it in whichever way you like, and enjoy.

What is chicken salad?

Chicken salad is a familiar American dish of cooked chicken combined with a creamy dressing and add-ins. This version keeps the ingredient list short, with almonds for crunch and dried fruit for a sweet contrast.

The recipe is served over mixed greens, though the chicken mixture can also be served in other ways. Its simplicity makes it easy to prepare when the chicken is already cooked.

Nutrition and macros by portion

The nutrition label shows one serving as written: 332 calories, 17g protein, 9g carbs, 26g fat.

The chicken supplies most of the protein, while the mayonnaise contributes much of the fat; the dried fruit and chicken contribute carbohydrates. Serve it over a generous bed of mixed greens to add freshness and make the plate feel more complete.

The ingredient balance

Chicken: Drained, cooked chicken breast provides the main substance of the salad. Break or cut it into bite-sized pieces if needed so it mixes evenly with the dressing.

Mayonnaise: This binds the ingredients and gives the mixture its creamy texture. Stir it through the chicken rather than leaving it in a pocket at the bottom of the bowl.

Almonds and fruit: Sliced almonds add crunch, while dried fruit brings a sweet note. Use the amounts listed, then season to taste with salt and pepper.

Mixing without mashing

Add everything to a large bowl and fold or stir gently until the chicken is coated. If the chicken is finely shredded, mix lightly to keep the pieces from turning into a paste.

Taste the mixture after combining and adjust the salt and pepper as desired. The recipe does not specify a particular type of dried fruit.

Chilling and texture

Chilling before serving gives the salad time to become cold and lets the flavours mingle. Keep it covered in the refrigerator while it rests.

The finished mixture should be creamy, with distinct pieces of chicken and almonds. Serve it over mixed greens for a fresh contrast to the rich dressing.

Serving ideas

For the listed serving, spoon the chicken salad over mixed greens. A slice of bread or a simple vegetable side can make the meal more substantial.

The recipe also leaves the serving method open, so the mixture can be used in a sandwich or wrap if preferred.

Recipe notes & tips

• Drain the cooked chicken well so excess liquid does not thin the mayonnaise.
• Break the chicken into evenly sized pieces for a consistent bite.
• Fold the almonds in gently to preserve their crunch.
• Season after mixing, since the chicken and mayonnaise may already be seasoned.
• Keep the salad chilled until you are ready to serve it over the greens.

Variations

• Change the fruit: Use another type of dried fruit in the same amount.
• Add fresh herbs: Stir in chopped parsley for a fresh, savoury note.
• Make it a sandwich: Spoon the chicken salad into bread or a roll.
• Serve in a wrap: Add the mixture to a wrap with greens and roll it up.
• Add extra crunch: Top each serving with a few more sliced almonds.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Using wet chicken: Drain it well so the salad does not become watery.
• Adding too much mayonnaise: Start with the stated amount and mix thoroughly before deciding whether it needs more.
• Overmixing: Stir gently so the chicken keeps some texture.
• Serving it warm: Chill the mixture before serving for the intended cold salad.
• Leaving it out: Return the salad to the refrigerator when it is not being served.

How to store

Keep the chicken salad covered in the refrigerator and use it within 3–4 days. Serve it cold; if it has been left at room temperature for an extended period, discard it rather than storing it again.

Frequently asked questions