Name: Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad: A Bold and Delicious Twist
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup plain greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 lemon juiced; kosher salt and pepper; 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken; 1 cup dried tart cherries; 1/2 cup sliced almonds; 2 peppers jalapeno, seeds removed and diced; 2 green onions thinly sliced; 1 rib celery, diced; 2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley

Introduction to Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

If you’ve ever been in a rush and resorted to fast food, you know the convenience often comes with a cost — both in terms of nutrition and taste. That’s where homemade salads shine! They provide you with fresh ingredients and the ability to tailor flavors to your liking, making them a healthier and more delicious alternative. With our Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad, you can whip up a satisfying meal that not only delights your taste buds but also leaves you feeling great.

This vibrant salad combines tender chicken, sweet tart cherries, and a kick from fresh jalapeños, creating a balance of flavors that’s hard to resist. Plus, it takes just 20 minutes to prepare! Imagine enjoying a colorful bowl of this salad on a sunny day, or serving it on a sandwich for an easy and tasty lunch on the go.

Moreover, homemade salads allow you to control the ingredients, ensuring that you're not only enjoying a lovely dish but also nourishing your body. Interested in discovering how easy it is to make this cherry jalapeno chicken salad? Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps that will get you there!

Ingredients for Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Creating a delicious cherry jalapeno chicken salad is a breeze when you have all the right ingredients on hand. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this flavorful dish:

Essential ingredients you need

¼ cup mayonnaise: For creaminess and richness.
¼ cup plain Greek yogurt: Adds tang and lightens the dressing.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: For a subtle kick.
1 lemon, juiced: Freshens up the salad and balances flavors.
Kosher salt and pepper: To season your salad to perfection.
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken: The star of the show, providing protein.
1 cup dried tart cherries: Adds sweetness with a hint of tartness.
½ cup sliced almonds: For crunch and nuttiness.
2 jalapeno peppers, seeds removed and diced: Brings the heat!
2 green onions, thinly sliced: Offers a mild onion flavor.
1 celery rib, diced: For added texture and freshness.
2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley: Brightens the dish visually and flavor-wise.

Optional additions for extra flavor

Want to customize your cherry jalapeno chicken salad? Consider these tasty additions:

Turkey bacon: Crispy bits for smoky flavor.
Avocado: Creaminess and healthy fats.
Chopped bell peppers: For extra crunch and color.

Mix and match these ingredients to create a salad that’s uniquely yours! For more tips on incorporating fruits into savory dishes, check out resources from Healthline and EatingWell.

Now that you have your ingredient list ready, it’s time to get cooking!

Preparing Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Making Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad is a delightful culinary adventure that combines savory chicken, tart cherries, and a hint of spice. This vibrant dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare! Let's dive into the steps to whip up this refreshing salad.

Gather and prep all ingredients

Before you begin cooking, it's essential to gather all your ingredients. This will streamline the process and ensure you have everything at hand.

Here's what you'll need:

¼ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 lemon, juiced
Kosher salt and pepper to taste
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (perfect for using up leftovers)
1 cup dried tart cherries (these add a lovely sweetness)
½ cup sliced almonds (for crunch)
2 jalapeno peppers, seeds removed and diced (this gives the salad its spice)
2 green onions, thinly sliced
1 celery rib, diced
2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley

Make sure to give your cherries a good rinse and chop the jalapenos, green onions, and celery beforehand. This preparation creates a smooth workflow in the kitchen.

Make the creamy dressing

Next, you'll want to whip up a creamy dressing that binds everything together and enhances the flavors. In a medium bowl, combine:

Mayonnaise
Greek yogurt
Dijon mustard
Lemon juice

Whisk these ingredients together until they form a smooth mixture, then season with a pinch of kosher salt and pepper. This dressing is not only creamy but also tangy, which beautifully balances the sweetness of the cherries. For more on salad dressings, check out this guide on healthy salad dressings.

Combine the main components

Once your dressing is ready, it's time to bring the cherry jalapeno chicken salad together. In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken, dried cherries, sliced almonds, diced jalapenos, green onions, celery, and parsley. Pour the creamy dressing over the mixture and gently fold everything together until evenly combined.

Taste and adjust seasoning

This step is crucial! Before you finish, take a moment to taste your creation. Depending on your preferences, you might want to add a bit more salt, pepper, or even a dash more lemon juice. The right balance of flavors will make all the difference!

Chill and let flavors meld

For best results, cover your salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making the salad even more delicious. Enjoy it on a bed of greens, as a sandwich filling, or with your favorite crackers. You might find it’s best after a day in the fridge!

With these steps, you’re well on your way to enjoying an amazing Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad. It's a fantastic dish for lunches, casual dinners, or meal prep. Bon appétit!

Variations on Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Add Protein: How About Beef or Turkey Bacon?

Want to elevate your cherry jalapeno chicken salad? Consider adding some protein! Instead of chicken alone, try crisping up some turkey bacon for a smoky flavor punch. You could also swap out the chicken for tender beef strips, particularly grilled or roasted, which adds a savory depth to the salad.

Spice It Up: Different Peppers to Try

If you love the heat, experiment with different peppers! While jalapenos add a nice kick, you can also try serrano, habanero, or even banana peppers for varied heat levels. These alternatives provide a unique taste and can completely change the flavor profile of your cherry jalapeno chicken salad. Mix and match to find your favorite combination!

For more delicious twists, check out these ideas on great pepper variations. Enjoy customizing your salad!

Cooking tips and notes for Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Avoiding sogginess in your salad

To keep your cherry jalapeno chicken salad fresh and crisp, consider adding moisture-rich ingredients, like the mayonnaise and yogurt, just before serving. If you plan to make it ahead, store the chicken salad mixture separately from any toppings, such as sliced almonds or green onions. This way, you won’t end up with a soggy mess by mealtime!

How to store leftovers correctly

For any leftover cherry jalapeno chicken salad, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days. To maintain its flavor and texture, consume it within this timeframe, as it tends to taste even better after the flavors meld together. For tips on food storage, check out FoodSafety.gov.

Serving suggestions for Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Creative serving ideas

This cherry jalapeno chicken salad is a delightful dish that offers endless serving possibilities. Consider making hearty sandwiches using your favorite bread, or layer it on crisp crackers for a light snack. A bed of mixed greens can elevate this salad into a refreshing lunch or dinner option, perfect for warmer days. For a family gathering, serve the salad in a beautiful bowl, allowing guests to dig in on their plates or napkins.

Pairing with the right beverages

To enhance your meal, pair the cherry jalapeno chicken salad with sparkling water infused with citrus or herbal teas for a refreshing contrast. If you're hosting, consider offering a selection of flavored kombucha, which can complement the sweet and spicy notes beautifully. For a cozy evening at home, a warm cup of chai can work wonders next to this salad, balancing out its zest.

Explore unique options and get creative — you'll be surprised by how versatile this salad can be! For more ideas, check out Food Network's entertaining tips.

Time Breakdown for Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Preparation Time
Getting started on your cherry jalapeno chicken salad is a breeze! You'll need about 20 minutes to gather your ingredients and whip everything together. This makes it perfect for a quick lunch or last-minute gathering.

Total Time
In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, vibrant salad ready to serve. It’s simple, fresh, and wonderful whether enjoyed right away or stored for later. It's great on its own, or you can pair it with your favorite crackers or sandwich bread!

For more delicious salads, consider checking out this guide on salad types for fresh inspiration. And if you want to dive deeper into cooking techniques, Institute of Culinary Education offers excellent resources!

Nutritional Facts for Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Calories

This delightful Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad contains about 320 calories per serving. It's a satisfying option that combines a variety of ingredients while keeping the calorie count reasonable.

Protein Content

With approximately 30 grams of protein, this salad offers a substantial boost, making it a great choice for post-workout meals or a filling lunch. Lean chicken, rich in protein, ensures you feel full and energized.

Dietary Considerations

This salad is versatile for many dietary needs:

Gluten-free: Use certified gluten-free mayonnaise.
Low-carb: Keep it low-carb by adding more veggies.
Nut allergies: Substitute sliced almonds with sunflower seeds.

Always adjust the ingredients according to your dietary preferences, and enjoy a healthy dish that doesn’t skimp on flavor!

For further reading on the benefits of incorporating more protein into your diet, check out the Harvard Health Blog.

FAQs about Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Can I substitute Greek yogurt with something else?

Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of Greek yogurt or simply don’t have it on hand, you can swap it for regular plain yogurt or even buttermilk for a tangy twist. You could also use sour cream for a creamier texture, though it may alter the flavor slightly. If you prefer a non-dairy option, try a plant-based yogurt.

How can I make this salad spicier?

To kick the heat up a notch in your cherry jalapeno chicken salad, consider adding more diced jalapeños or using spicier varieties like serrano or habanero peppers. A splash of hot sauce or even some red pepper flakes can also enhance the spice level, making every bite a little fiery and exciting!

What are the best types of chicken to use?

For this salad, roasted chicken or rotisserie chicken works beautifully since it adds depth of flavor. You can also use poached or smoked chicken for a unique twist. If you're looking for a leaner option, turkey or chicken breast is a great choice too, maintaining that tender texture you desire.

For further insights on chicken varieties, you might find The Kitchn's guide on chicken cuts helpful!

Conclusion on Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Rediscover the joy of homemade! This cherry jalapeno chicken salad is not just a meal; it’s an experience. With vibrant flavors and textures, it's perfect for lunch and great for meal prep. Enjoy it with your favorite crackers or as a sandwich filling. Try it out and impress your friends!