Perfectly Balanced Chicken Salad

Chicken salad is a beloved dish that has been enjoyed for years. It's simple yet satisfying, making it the perfect choice for lunches and light dinners. Whether you're craving something fresh or want to impress your friends with an easy-to-make meal, chicken salad fits the bill. This versatile recipe can be customized according to personal taste preferences. Let’s dive into how to prepare a delicious and healthy Chicken Salad.

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken breast, cooked
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped finely
• ½ small cucumber, diced
• ⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

To start, gather all necessary ingredients before you begin cooking. In a large bowl, shred the cooked chicken breast into small pieces using two forks or your fingers. This will make it easier to mix later on.

Mix in the finely chopped red bell pepper and cucumber. The color contrast between these vegetables will add an appealing look to the salad while also providing some crunch and freshness. Next comes the dressing; combine Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice along with salt and pepper according to your taste buds' preference until everything is well incorporated.

Once all components are mixed together smoothly, place this mixture into a serving bowl. Garnish it with fresh parsley if desired as an extra touch of flavor and color. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to three days covered tightly; however, make sure the chicken salad does not sit at room temperature too long since it contains raw ingredients like eggs that need proper cooling conditions.

Nutritional Information

The nutritional value per serving can vary based on individual ingredients used but generally includes approximately:

• Calories: 300 kcal
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 65mg
• Sodium: 240mg
• Potassium: 750mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Vitamin C: 10% DV

Tips & Variations

For a more robust flavor profile, consider adding nuts such as almonds or walnuts. A handful of cranberries can also add sweet bursts against the savory elements already present in this dish. If you enjoy heat, mix in some diced jalapeños for a bit of spiciness without overpowering other flavors.

Feel free to substitute the chicken with turkey breast if desired; it's equally tender and provides slightly less fat content while keeping all other components unchanged. Another option could be substituting Greek yogurt with mayonnaise or even mixing both together for a richer texture.

Conclusion

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p>A simple yet impressive Chicken Salad can be prepared in just 20 minutes, offering four servings ready to enjoy either cold or warm depending on one’s preference. With its versatility, this dish allows experimentation through various additions and substitutions without losing its core appeal. From packed lunches to casual dinners, this recipe promises satisfaction every time!