Easy Marshall Field’s Chicken Salad Recipe is one of those timeless dishes that takes me back to a different era—elegant lunches at the Walnut Room, where this creamy, crunchy, and flavorful salad was a favourite. After numerous attempts and adjustments, I recreated the Easy Marshall Field’s Chicken Salad Recipe in my kitchen. If you love vintage recipes and crave comforting, flavorful meals, you’ll love this one. I’m excited to share it with you today, step by step, so you can enjoy it just as they used to serve it.
The History Behind the Easy Marshall Field’s Chicken Salad Recipe
The Easy Marshall Field’s Chicken Salad Recipe was made famous at the iconic Walnut Room in the Marshall Field’s department store in Chicago. It became a go-to choice for ladies’ luncheons and holiday meals. This version returns those flavours using simple and fresh ingredients you can find at home.
Why the Easy Marshall Field’s Chicken Salad Recipe Is a Must-Try
The Easy Marshall Field’s Chicken Salad Recipe perfectly balances creamy dressing, tender chicken, crunchy celery, and sweet grapes. It’s easy to make and works well for lunch, picnics, or fancy brunches. It feels absolutely fancy but is super easy to prepare.
Ingredients for the Easy Marshall Field’s Chicken Salad Recipe
- 3 cups cooked fresh chicken breast, chopped or shredded
- ½ cup chopped celery
- ½ cup halved seedless grapes (red or green)
- ¼ cup toasted sliced almonds
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Romaine lettuce leaves or croissants for serving
Step-by-Step Guide to Prepare the Easy Marshall Field’s Chicken Salad Recipe
- Cook the chicken breast and let it cool. Then, chop it into bite-sized pieces.
- Wash the celery and grapes. Chop the celery and slice the grapes in half.
- Toast the almonds lightly in a pan for a few minutes. Let them cool.
- Combine the chicken, celery, grapes, and almonds in a large bowl.
- Mix mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture. Stir gently to combine.
Mixing and Combining the Marshall Field’s Chicken Salad Recipe
Use a large spoon or spatula to mix the Marshall Field’s Chicken Salad Recipe gently. Ensure the dressing covers the chicken and veggies evenly. Don’t stir too hard, or the grapes may get squished.
Serving and Enjoying the Recipe
Scoop the Marshall Field’s Chicken Salad Recipe into a bowl or serve it on lettuce leaves with tomatoes. You can spoon it into a buttery croissant or enjoy it with crackers. Each bite offers a combination of creamy, crunchy, and sweet flavours. Take your time and enjoy each bite!
How to Store the Recipe
Place the Easy Marshall Field’s Chicken Salad Recipe in an airtight container and keep it in the active refrigerator. It will stay entirely fresh for up to 3 days. Stir it before serving again to maintain a smooth and even texture.
Memories and Modern Takes on the Easy Marshall Field’s Chicken Salad Recipe
While the original Easy Marshall Field’s Chicken Salad Recipe remains beloved, many people like to make small changes today. They add dried cranberries, swap mayo for Greek yoghurt, or serve it with avocado. No matter how you tweak it, the heart of the Recipe stays the same.
👨🍳 Chef’s Tips for the Easy Marshall Field’s Chicken Salad Recipe
- Use Poached or Roasted Chicken
Use freshly poached or roasted chicken breasts for the best flavour and texture. Let them cool before chopping.
- Chill Before Serving
Always refrigerate the Marshall Field’s Chicken Salad Recipe for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavours to come together beautifully.
- Toast the Almonds
Toasting the sliced almonds brings out a warm, nutty flavour that enhances the crunch in every bite.
- Slice Grapes in Half
Cutting grapes in half makes them easier to eat and distributes their sweetness throughout the salad.
- Add Dressing Slowly
Mix in the mayo-based dressing gradually to avoid making the salad too wet. You can always add more, but not take it away.
- Use Fresh Lemon Juice
A little splash of fresh lemon juice brightens the entire dish and balances the creaminess.
🧾 Nutrition Information (Per 1 Cup Serving)
Here’s a general nutrition breakdown of Easy Marshall Field’s Chicken Salad Recipe (values may vary depending on the exact ingredients used)
- Calories: 270 kcal
- Protein: 22g
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Sugar: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 330mg
Tip: You can reduce the fat and calories by using light mayo or Greek yoghurt.
🥗 Related Recipe Names
Here are related recipe ideas that readers of the Easy Marshall Field’s Chicken Salad Recipe may enjoy
- Classic Waldorf Chicken Salad
- Vintage Tea Room Egg Salad
- Cranberry Almond Chicken Salad
- Old-Fashioned Tuna Salad
- Southern-Style Pecan Chicken Salad
- Roasted Turkey Apple Salad
- Chicago Deli Ham Salad Spread
- Curried Chicken Salad with Grapes
- Chicken Salad Stuffed Avocados
- Creamy Celery and Herb Chicken Salad
❓ FAQ: Easy Marshall Field’s Chicken Salad Recipe
1. Can I use canned chicken in the Easy Marshall Field’s Chicken Salad Recipe?
Ans: Yes, but fresh chicken tastes better.
2. Is the Easy Marshall Field’s Chicken Salad Recipe gluten-free?
Ans: Yes, if you skip the croissant or use gluten-free bread.
3. Can I make the Easy Marshall Field’s Chicken Salad Recipe ahead of time?
Ans: Yes, it tastes better after chilling for a while.
4. Can I freeze the Easy Marshall Field’s Chicken Salad Recipe?
Ans: No, freezing changes the texture of the mayo and grapes.
5. How long will the Easy Marshall Field’s Chicken Salad Recipe last in the fridge?
Ans: It lasts about 3 days when stored properly.
🔚 Conclusion
The Easy Marshall Field’s Chicken Salad Recipe is a true classic that evokes warm memories of elegant meals and cosy lunches. It’s creamy, fresh, and full of flavour, and it’s so easy to make at home. Whether serving it at a special event or packing it for a quick lunch, the Easy Marshall Field’s Chicken Salad Recipe is always a winning choice. Try it once, and it might just become your go-to chicken salad!