Name: Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad: A Unique and Zesty Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 0.25 cup mayonnaise; 0.25 cup plain greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 whole lemon, juiced; kosher salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken; 1 cup dried tart cherries; 0.5 cup sliced almonds; 2 whole jalapeno peppers, seeds removed and diced; 2 whole green onions, thinly sliced; 1 rib celery, diced; 2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley

Introduction to Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

If you're looking for a refreshing and zesty chicken salad, look no further than Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad. This dish transcends the typical boring lunch options and offers a delightful combination of flavors that tantalize your taste buds. Trust me, it's not just a meal; it’s an experience!

What makes Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad a must-try?

Flavor Explosion: The secret lies in the sweet-tart dried cherries that perfectly counterbalance the spicy kick from the jalapenos. Every bite is an exciting adventure.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean chicken, nuts, and a hint of Greek yogurt, this salad is both nutritious and satisfying. You’ll be pleased to know that it aligns with healthier eating habits without skimping on taste. Research indicates a balanced diet rich in proteins and healthy fats can boost energy levels throughout the day.
Versatile Dish: Whether you’re hosting a casual brunch, prepping for a work lunch, or just craving a snack, this salad works every time. Serve it on whole-grain bread or alongside crunchy crackers for a delightful twist.

With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser in no time. So grab your apron and let's dive into this delicious recipe that will surely impress!

Ingredients for Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Creating a vibrant Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad is not only simple, but it also brings a wonderful medley of flavors to your table. Here’s what you’ll need to make this quick and delightful dish:

¼ cup mayonnaise: This is the creamy base that binds everything together.
¼ cup plain Greek yogurt: Adds a tangy flavor while keeping it light.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Introduces a zesty kick and depth.
1 lemon, juiced: Fresh lemon juice brightens the salad up beautifully.
Kosher salt and pepper: Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken: Use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time!
1 cup dried tart cherries: These provide a sweet and slightly sour note that complements the heat.
½ cup sliced almonds: For a delightful crunch.
2 jalapeno peppers, seeds removed and diced: They bring in just the right amount of heat.
2 green onions, thinly sliced: Adds freshness and a mild onion flavor.
1 celery rib, diced: For added crunch and flavor.
2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley: Brightens up the dish with its fresh taste.

Make sure to use quality ingredients; they really make a difference! This salad is not only versatile but also perfect for layering in a meal prep situation. Enjoy it on its own, or serve on a bed of greens, tucked into a sandwich, or with your favorite crackers. For more tips on creating delicious salads, check out Salad Recipes from Serious Eats, which provides a wealth of advice to elevate your salad game.

Step-by-step Preparation for Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Creating a delightful Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad is a breeze! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a vibrant dish that balances savory, sweet, and spicy notes, perfect for any lunch or snack. Trust me, your taste buds are in for a treat!

Whip up the dressing

Start by making a deliciously creamy dressing that will tie your salad together. In a mixing bowl, combine:

¼ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
The juice of 1 fresh lemon
A pinch of kosher salt and pepper

Whisk these ingredients until smooth—this creamy base adds richness, while the lemon juice gives it a zesty kick. Don’t rush this step; ensure everything is well incorporated for the best flavor!

Combine the chicken and mix-ins

Now it’s time for the main event—adding that succulent chicken!

Take 2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works wonderfully for convenience) and place it in a separate large mixing bowl. Next, sprinkle in your mix-ins:

1 cup dried tart cherries, chopped for smaller bites
½ cup sliced almonds for that delightful crunch
2 jalapeno peppers, seeds removed and diced for a hint of heat
2 green onions, thinly sliced for freshness
1 celery rib, diced, for a satisfying crunch
2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor

Combine the chicken and mix-ins gently with a spatula until just blended.

Add the dressing and blend

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Pour your creamy dressing over the chicken and mix-ins. Using a spatula, gently fold the dressing into the salad until everything is beautifully coated. Keep it light—you want those ingredients to shine without being overwhelmed.

Taste and adjust seasoning

This step is vital! Before you serve your Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad, take a moment to taste it. Add more salt and pepper if necessary or even a splash more lemon juice for acidity. This is your dish, so make it exactly how you like!

Chill and serve

For the best flavor, let your salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to mingle and enhance. When you’re ready to serve, enjoy it on a bed of greens, in a sandwich, or with crackers. This salad can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, but trust me, it gets better as it sits!

This refreshing Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad brings a joyful twist to your lunch routine. For more inspiration, check out other salad ideas on Food Network or Bon Appétit. Happy cooking!

Variations on Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Spicy Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Craving more heat? This spicy variation of Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad takes it up a notch! Simply increase the amount of diced jalapeños or add a splash of your favorite hot sauce to the mix. For an extra kick, consider incorporating some diced serrano peppers as an alternative. The spice not only livens up the flavors but also pairs beautifully with the tart cherries and rich chicken, creating a delightful balance.

Nut-Free Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

If you’re looking to create a nut-free version, simply swap out the sliced almonds. You could use sunflower seeds instead for a crunchy texture or leave the nuts out entirely. Not only does this create a delicious and safe option for those with allergies, but it also lets the vibrant flavors of the Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad shine through, allowing the tangy yogurt and fresh veggies to take center stage.

Experimenting with these variations allows you to customize this salad to fit your dietary needs and spice preferences!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Creating the perfect Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad is easier than you might think! Here are some helpful tips to elevate your dish:

Balancing Flavors: Pay attention to the balance between the tart cherries and spicy jalapenos. If you're not a fan of heat, remove the seeds thoroughly or start with just one pepper.
Chicken Variations: Use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience, or even grab a pre-cooked deli chicken to save time.
Storage Tips: This salad actually tastes better the longer it sits—flavors meld beautifully! Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Serving Suggestions: Try serving it on a bed of greens for a refreshing twist or scoop it onto whole-grain crackers for a satisfying snack.

For more tips on storing and serving salads, check out Good Housekeeping’s salad storage guide. Enjoy your cooking!

Serving Suggestions for Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

When it comes to enjoying your Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad, the possibilities are almost endless! Here are some creative serving suggestions that elevate this dish beyond a simple salad.

Sandwiches: Slather the chicken salad between your favorite bread or in a wrap for a delightful lunchtime treat. Whole grain or ciabatta are fantastic choices!
Crackers and Veggies: Pair it with whole-grain crackers or sliced veggies like cucumbers and bell peppers for a crunchy appetizer that's sure to impress.
Over Greens: Serve it on a bed of mixed greens or arugula for a refreshing salad option, perfect for lunch or a light dinner.
Stuffed Peppers: For a fun twist, stuff halved bell peppers with the salad for a colorful and healthy dish.

Remember, this salad also makes for a great dish to prep ahead of time, and it only gets better as the flavors meld! If you're interested in exploring more unique chicken salad ideas, check out these creative chicken salad recipes. Enjoy your culinary creation!

Time Breakdown for Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Preparation time

Getting this delightful Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad ready is a breeze! You'll need about 20 minutes of prep time. That means you can whip it up quickly, making it ideal for a busy weekday lunch or a sunny picnic outing.

Total time

In total, it will take you just 20 minutes from start to finish. That’s right—no long cooking hours here! You can have a delicious, flavorful salad ready to enjoy in no time. Perfect for when you need a tasty meal but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

For a full recipe and inspiration on serving, check out resources like Bon Appétit or Food Network. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Facts for Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

When diving into the deliciousness of Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad, it’s good to know what you’re fueling your body with. Here’s a quick overview of its nutritional profile:

Calories: Approximately 400 calories per serving, making it a satisfying yet healthy option for lunch.
Protein: Packed with about 30 grams of protein, thanks to the shredded chicken, which helps keep you feeling full.
Sodium: The sodium content is around 600 mg, primarily from the mayonnaise and mustard, so be mindful if you're watching your salt intake.

This delightful salad combines flavors that excite your palate, making it a meal worth savoring! For a deeper dive into the health benefits and texture of nuts in your diet, check Healthline’s article on nuts and discover even more about how these ingredients can complement your meals. Enjoy every bite of your vibrant Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad!

FAQs about Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried?

Absolutely! While dried cherries add a delightful chewiness and concentrated sweetness, fresh cherries can elevate your Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad with a burst of juiciness. Just keep in mind that fresh cherries are less sweet, so you might want to add a touch of honey or additional seasoning to achieve the perfect balance.

How to make it dairy-free?

To make this salad dairy-free, simply replace the Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt like coconut or almond. For the mayonnaise, opt for a dairy-free version available at most grocery stores. This way, you can enjoy your Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad without any dairy products while keeping all that creamy, flavorful goodness.

What are some side dishes that pair well with this salad?

Thinking of what to serve alongside your Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad? Here are a few ideas:

Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing side that balances the richness of the salad.
Fruit Skewers: The sweetness of fresh fruit complements the spice perfectly.
Whole Grain Crackers: Great for scooping up that flavorful salad.
Sweet Potato Fries: Their sweetness pairs well with the tanginess of cherries.

Feel free to experiment, and let me know your favorite pairings!

Conclusion on Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

In summary, the Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad is a delightful balance of flavors, combining savory chicken with tart cherries, crunchy almonds, and a kick from jalapenos. It’s perfect for meal prep, enhancing any lunch or gathering. Enjoy it on sandwiches or with crackers, and savor every bite!