homemade chicken salad

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Chill Time: 30 minutes (minimum)

• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

• Intensity: Easy

• Yield: 6 servings (about 4.5 cups)

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Ingredients

For the Poached Chicken:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs / 680g)

• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

• 1 cup water

• 1 bay leaf

• 1 sprig fresh rosemary (or 1/2 tsp dried)

• 2 cloves garlic, smashed

• 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Salad & Dressing:

• 1/2 cup high-quality mayonnaise (such as Hellmann’s or Duke’s)

• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or 2% for best texture)

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (about 1/2 lemon)

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• 1/2 teaspoon honey or maple syrup

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• 1/2 cup celery, finely diced (about 2 ribs)

• 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced

• 1/4 cup dried cranberries (or chopped grapes for a fresh, juicy sweetness)

• 1/4 cup toasted pecans or almonds, roughly chopped

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)

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Instructions

Phase 1: Poach the Chicken (15 minutes active | 15 minutes passive)

1. Combine Poaching Liquid: In a medium-sized pot or deep skillet, combine the chicken broth, water, bay leaf, rosemary sprig, smashed garlic cloves, peppercorns, and salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat.

2. Add Chicken: Carefully add the chicken breasts to the simmering liquid. Ensure they are mostly submerged. If not, add a splash more water.

3. Simmer Gently: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook at a bare simmer (small bubbles occasionally breaking the surface) for 12-15 minutes. Intensity: Low. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of your breasts. They are done when an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165°F (74°C).

4. Rest in Broth: Using tongs, remove the pot from the heat. Transfer the chicken breasts to a cutting board, but do not discard the broth! Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring it stays moist. (Strain and save the leftover broth for soup or cooking grains!)

5. Shred or Dice: Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces, or dice it into 1/2-inch cubes, depending on your preference. Place the prepared chicken in a large mixing bowl.

Phase 2: Make the Dressing (5 minutes)

6. Whisk Dressing: In a separate, small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Phase 3: Assemble the Salad (10 minutes)

7. Combine Ingredients: Add the diced celery, red onion, dried cranberries (or grapes), toasted pecans, and fresh parsley to the large bowl with the shredded chicken.

8. Add Dressing: Pour the creamy dressing over the chicken and mix-ins.

9. Mix Gently: Use a rubber spatula or a large spoon to fold everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. Be careful not to over-mix, which can make the chicken mushy.

10. Chill: For the best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours. Intensity: Low. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the salad to become perfectly refreshing.

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Serving Suggestions

This homemade chicken salad is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ways to enjoy it:

• Classic Sandwich: Pile it high on toasted croissants, sourdough, or brioche bread with crisp lettuce leaves.

• Wrap: Spoon into a large tortilla or lavash wrap with spinach and sliced avocado.

• Over Greens: Serve a generous scoop on a bed of mixed greens, arugula, or spinach for a satisfying low-carb meal.

• Stuffed Avocado: For a keto-friendly option, stuff the chicken salad into halved avocados.

• With Crackers: Serve as a dip with buttery crackers, pita chips, or crisp cucumber slices for an easy appetizer.

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Nutrition Information

Nutrition information is an estimate and per serving (based on 6 servings).