Savory Citrus-Pecan Chicken Salad
Elevate your lunch game with this Savory Citrus-Pecan Chicken Salad, inspired by the delightful flavors of Cush's Grocery in Shreveport, LA. This dish combines tender, diced chicken with the crunch of toasted pecans, the crispness of fresh celery, and the aromatic sweetness of onions. A tangy dressing made from creamy mayonnaise and zesty Dijon mustard is perfectly enhanced with a touch of lemon juice, creating a mouthwatering medley that's both refreshing and satisfying. Ideal for picnics, light lunches, or as a delicious snack, this chicken salad can be served on its own, atop a bed of greens, or nestled in a sandwich for a flavor-packed meal.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
cooked chicken
2 1/2 cups (diced)
pecans
1/4 cup (chopped and toasted)
celery
1/2 cup (finely chopped)
onion
1/2 cup (finely chopped)
mayonnaise
3/4 cup (none)
Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon (none)
sugar
1 teaspoon (none)
salt
1/2 teaspoon (none)
black pepper
1/4 teaspoon (none)
lemon juice
2 teaspoons (none)
Instructions
1
In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
2
In a large mixing bowl, add the diced chicken, chopped pecans, finely chopped celery, and onion.
3
Pour the prepared dressing over the chicken mixture and gently stir until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
4
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
5
Serve chilled on a bed of fresh greens, in a sandwich, or with crackers.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Citrus-Pecan Chicken Salad?
It is a refreshing salad that combines tender diced chicken with toasted pecans, crisp celery, and onions in a tangy citrus-infused Dijon dressing.
How many ingredients are required for this recipe?
There are 10 ingredients in total.
What is the main protein in this salad?
The main protein is 2 1/2 cups of cooked, diced chicken.
What type of nuts are used in the recipe?
The recipe uses chopped and toasted pecans.
How should the pecans be prepared?
The pecans should be chopped and toasted before being added to the mixture.
What kind of mustard is used in the dressing?
The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard.
How much mayonnaise is needed?
The dressing requires 3/4 cup of mayonnaise.
What provides the citrus flavor in this dish?
The citrus flavor is provided by 2 teaspoons of lemon juice.
How much lemon juice should I use?
You should use 2 teaspoons of lemon juice.
Does the chicken need to be cooked beforehand?
Yes, the recipe specifies using 2 1/2 cups of cooked chicken.
How should the celery be cut?
The celery should be finely chopped.
Is there any sugar in this chicken salad?
Yes, the recipe includes 1 teaspoon of sugar.
How long should the salad be refrigerated before serving?
It should be refrigerated for at least 1 hour.
Why does the salad need to be refrigerated?
Refrigeration allows the various flavors of the ingredients to meld together.
Can I serve this chicken salad in a sandwich?
Yes, it is excellent nestled in a sandwich or served on a bed of greens.
Is this recipe suitable for a picnic?
Yes, it is specifically described as ideal for picnics and light lunches.
How much onion is needed for this recipe?
The recipe requires 1/2 cup of finely chopped onion.
Can I serve this with crackers?
Yes, it can be served with crackers as a snack or light meal.
How much cooked chicken is needed in cups?
You will need 2 1/2 cups of cooked chicken.
What seasonings are used in the dressing?
The dressing is seasoned with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
Where did the inspiration for this recipe come from?
This recipe was inspired by the flavors found at Cush's Grocery in Shreveport, LA.
Is this an easy recipe to prepare?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe.
How much celery is used?
The recipe uses 1/2 cup of finely chopped celery.
Can this be served on a bed of greens?
Yes, serving it on fresh greens is a recommended serving suggestion.
Is this chicken salad considered a healthy meal?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy meal option.
What is the first step in making the dressing?
The first step is to whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, pepper, and lemon juice until smooth.
What texture do the pecans provide?
The toasted pecans provide a delightful crunch to the salad.
Should the salad be served warm or cold?
The salad should be served chilled.
Can this be eaten as a snack?
Yes, it is tagged as a great option for a snack.
How much black pepper is in the recipe?
The recipe uses 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.