Jilly’s Chicken Salad ~ flavorful with character! 🥗
Tried and True ~ Easy, interesting, family-friendly lunch – right this way! Discover this quick and delicious recipe that will brighten up your midday meal. Perfect for busy parents, couples, and anyone looking for a little lunchtime inspiration. 🫑
Who knew? History of Chicken Salad over centuries! 🍇
Chicken salad has been around for centuries, evolving through various cultures and culinary influences. Apparently, the earliest known versions date back to China, where finely shredded chicken was mixed with oils, herbs, and spices. However, the version we recognize today—featuring mayonnaise or a creamy dressing—has European origins. I guess when you think about it, this all makes sense!
American-Style ~ history 🍅
The first American-style chicken salad is attributed to Liam Gray of Town Meats in Wakefield, Rhode Island, in 1863. He took leftover chicken and added mayonnaise, with tarragon and grapes believe it or not. His dish was so popular it led to his butcher shop converting into a deli. What a revolution! Since then, chicken salad has become a staple in American deli’s, cafes, and households. It’s easy to prepare, meets nutrition standards, and is enjoyable on its own or as a sandwich or lettuce wrap. Today, it’s even stuffed into the pit of avocados – oh yummy!
Why Chicken Salad is a Go-To for Lunch or Snacks 🥕
Let’s start with it’s Versatility – It can be served as a sandwich, on crackers, in a wrap, as accompaniment, or over greens for a light yet satisfying meal.
Ease of Preparation – We lead very busy lives, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken, and it comes together quickly.
Protein-Packed & Satisfying – The combination of lean chicken and other ingredients makes it a filling yet not overly heavy meal. I am a huge lover of high protein meals as this is where I get my energy and brain power.
Customizable – It can be adjusted to fit your different tastes and dietary needs, making it a favorite among families and chef’s alike.
Why Are There So Many Variations? 🥗
Chicken salad is like a blank canvas—its mild flavor pairs well with a wide range of ingredients. Different regions and personal preferences have led to unique versions. I’ve worked on Jilly’s Healthy Chicken Salad for some time, testing it on my husband, family, and friends, all while making tweaks along the way. Some other popular variations include:
- Classic Deli Style – Mayo, celery, onion, and sometimes nuts or grapes.
- Southern Style – Often includes relish, hard-boiled eggs, and a bit of mustard.
- Asian-Inspired – Uses sesame oil, soy sauce, ginger, and crunchy vegetables.
- Spicy & Bold – Features ingredients like Sriracha, jalapeños, or Cajun seasoning.
Jilly’s Healthy Chicken Salad
Equipment
- 1 Chef Knife
- 2 Medium Mixing bowls
- 1 Mini Mixing Bowl for spices
- 1 Chopping block or Vegetable Dicer
- 1 Set of measuring cups
- 1 Set of measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 2 10 oz Cans of Chicken in Water
- 1/4 C. Lite Mayonnaise
- 4 Stalks Celery
- 1/2 C. Green or Red Onion
- 1 Tsp Dijon Mustard
- 1/2 Tsp Salt
- 1 Tsp Dill Spice
- 1/3 C. Cilantro
- 1/2 Tbsp Sriracha
- 4 Olives Imported Spanish Queen Martini Olives
Instructions
- Drain 2 Cans of Chicken to remove water
- Place Chicken in a medium mixing bowl and set aside
- Measure all spices together and set aside in a small bowl
- Wash celery and allow to drain
- Dice celery and onions
- Chop cilantro and 4 green martini olives
- Add mayo and spices to the chicken, and mix together with a fork
- Add all vegetables to chicken mixture and toss
- Toss all ingredients lightly making sure it's all mixed thoroughly
- Eat same day or refrigerate to eat later (for best flavor)
- Chicken salad mixture is perfect on it's own in a small bowl, or on a cracker, baguette or as a sandwich.
Toppings: 🥑
- Avocado
- Tomatoes
- Sour Cream
How to Enjoy Chicken Salad: 🥐
- On bread – A spread (if mashed, like avocado or pâté) or a topping (if layered, like sliced tomatoes or cheese).
- In the pit of an avocado – This one is intriguing! If you mean using the hollow left by the pit, it could be stuffed avocado (like with tuna salad or an egg).
- On a cracker – A topping or canapé (if it’s fancy and assembled intentionally).
- Alone – Just snacking or eating it straight-up!
Shop Kitchen Essentials I love & I used! 👩🏼🍳
Bon Appétit
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