Best Straub’s Chicken Salad Recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal for any occasion. I’ve been making this salad for years, and it’s a hit every time. This simple yet flavorful recipe is packed with tender chicken, fresh, crisp veggies, and a creamy dressing that ties everything together. Whether serving it at a family gathering, packing it for lunch, or enjoying it as a light dinner, this salad will surely impress. Let’s dive into the details of how to prepare this fantastic Best Straub’s Chicken Salad Recipe dish.
Ingredients for The Best Straub’s Chicken Salad Recipe
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup grapes, halved (optional)
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)
- 1 cup fresh mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing The Best Straub’s Chicken Salad Recipe
- Prepare the Chicken: Start by cooking chicken breasts until tender and fully cooked. Once done, chop them into bite-sized pieces. You can also use leftover rotisserie chicken for an even quicker prep time.
- Chop the Veggies: Dice the celery and red onion. These vegetables add a refreshing crunch to the salad. If you’re using grapes, halve them and chop walnuts to add flavor and texture.
- Make the Dressing: In a separate clean bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Stir well until it’s smooth and creamy. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine the Ingredients: Then, in a large bowl, add the chopped chicken, celery, red onion, grapes, and walnuts. Pour the dressing over the ingredients carefully and mix well. Make sure everything is evenly coated in the dressing.
- Serve and Enjoy: The Straub’s Chicken Salad Recipe can be served chilled or at a proper room temperature. Scoop the salad into bowls and enjoy it with a side of crackers or a bed of leafy greens.
Serving and Enjoying The Best Straub’s Chicken Salad Recipe
Simply ladle the salad into bowls to serve the Best Straub’s Chicken Salad Recipe. It pairs well with fresh greens or on its own. If you’re serving a crowd, it can be plated in a large serving bowl. Be sure to savor each spoonful of this delicious and creamy salad, as every bite has flavor and crunch.
Here are some Chef’s tips to make your The Best Straub’s Chicken Salad Recipe even more delicious
- Use Fresh Chicken: Use freshly cooked chicken breast for the best attractive flavor and texture. You can boil or grill it for a nice smoky flavor. Rotisserie chicken works perfectly as a shortcut if you’re short on time.
- Add Crunch with Fresh Veggies: Celery is a key ingredient for a crunchy texture, but feel free to experiment with other veggies like red bell peppers, cucumbers, or even carrots for added crunch and color.
- Let it Chill: If you have time, let the salad sit in the active fridge for about 30 minutes before serving. This cooking method melts the attractive flavors together and makes the salad tastier.
- Customize the Dressing: You can switch up the dressing by adding a little bit of fresh honey to balance the tanginess of the mustard or substituting Greek yogurt for a lighter, creamier alternative to mayo.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can elevate the flavor profile of the salad. Try adding a handful for an extra burst of freshness.
- Sweeten It Up: For a pop of sweetness, add a handful of dried cranberries, apples, or a few extra grapes to enhance the contrast with the savory chicken.
- Make It a Meal: Turn the salad into a complete meal by serving it on a bed of leafy greens like spinach or arugula. You can also serve it on a sandwich bun or with crackers for a quick and satisfying lunch.
- Toasted Nuts: If you’re using nuts like walnuts or almonds, try toasting them lightly in a pan. This generally brings out their natural oils and enhances the overall flavor.
These tips will make your The Best Straub’s Chicken Salad Recipe more flavorful and enjoyable!
The nutrition information for the Best Straub’s Chicken Salad Recipe can vary depending on the fresh ingredients, portion size, and dressing choices. Here’s an approximate breakdown of a typical serving of chicken salad
Nutrition Information (per serving, 1/2 cup)
- Calories: 250-300 kcal
- Protein: 20-25 grams
- Fat: 15-20 grams
- Saturated Fat: 2-4 grams
- Carbohydrates: 6-10 grams
- Fiber: 1-2 grams
- Sugars: 2-4 grams
- Cholesterol: 40-60 mg
- Sodium: 300-400 mg
- Potassium: 200-250 mg
- Vitamin A: 4-6% of daily value
- Vitamin C: 2-4% of daily value
- Calcium: 2-4% of daily value
- Iron: 2-4% of daily value
Notes:
- These estimates can vary depending on specific ingredient brands and portions.
- You can use a lighter dressing, such as a low-fat mayo or Greek yogurt, to reduce fat.
- You can also adjust the amount of salt and seasoning to fit your dietary preferences.
If you’re following a specific diet or need more accurate information, it’s always best to calculate based on your recipe’s actual and proper ingredients.
Here are some related recipe names to the Best Straub’s Chicken Salad Recipe that you may enjoy
- Classic Chicken Salad Recipe
- Chicken Salad with Grapes and Walnuts
- Chicken Salad with Cranberries and Almonds
- Mediterranean Chicken Salad
- Curry Chicken Salad
- Chicken Salad with Avocado and Bacon
- Healthy Chicken Salad with Greek Yogurt
- Chicken Salad with Pineapple and Cashews
- Southwestern Chicken Salad
- Lemon Herb Chicken Salad
These recipes share similar ingredients like chicken, fresh veggies, and unique flavor combinations, offering various options to explore if you’re a fan of chicken salads.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About The Best Straub’s Chicken Salad Recipe
1. Can I use a different type of nut in the Best Straub’s Chicken Salad Recipe?
Ans: Yes, depending on your preference, you can substitute walnuts with almonds, pecans, or cashews here.
2. How long can I store the Best Straub’s Chicken Salad Recipe in the fridge?
Ans: It can be stored for 3-4 days in an airtight container in the fridge.
3. Can I make this Chicken recipe ahead of time?
Ans: Yes, you can make it a day in advance. It tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld together.
4. Can I use a different dressing for the Best Straub’s Chicken Salad Recipe?
Ans: You can substitute the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard dressing with Greek yogurt or a light vinaigrette for a different flavor profile.
5. Is the Best Straub’s Chicken Salad Recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Ans: This recipe is naturally gluten-free; check your ingredients, like mustard and mayonnaise, to ensure they don’t contain gluten.
Conclusion
The Best Straub’s Chicken Salad Recipe is a versatile, easy-to-make dish that never disappoints. Whether serving it for lunch or bringing it to a potluck, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s packed with flavor and texture with simple ingredients like chicken, veggies, and a creamy dressing. I hope you enjoy making and eating this salad as much as I do!