A creamy, flavorful chicken salad made with tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a tangy mayo dressing. Perfect for any occasion!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Servings: 4–6 servings
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 chicken breast, skin and bones removed
- 1 chicken bouillon cube
- 1 garlic clove
- 1 small piece of garlic stems (optional)
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 large carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 can whole kernel corn (optional)
- ½ can of peas, drained
- 1 boiled egg, chopped
Dressing:
- Mayonnaise (to taste)
- A splash of the chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Lemon juice (to taste)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Wash the chicken breast thoroughly, ensuring no bones or skin remain.
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the chicken bouillon cube, garlic clove, and garlic stems (if using).
- Once the water is boiling, add the chicken breast and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 1 hour or until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink in the center.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool. Save the cooking broth for the dressing.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
- In another pot, bring salted water to a boil.
- Dice the peeled potatoes and carrots into small, even cubes. Add them to the boiling water.
- Cook until the vegetables are tender but still hold their shape (test by piercing with a fork).
- Drain the vegetables and let them cool completely.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise (amount based on your preference), a splash of the chicken broth, a few drops of lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and salt and pepper. Adjust to taste.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
- Once cooled, shred the cooked chicken breast into small pieces using two forks or your hands.
Step 5: Assemble the Salad
- In a large salad bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced potatoes, carrots, corn (if using), peas, and chopped boiled egg.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the mixture and gently toss until everything is well coated.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve cold and enjoy!
Tips and Tricks
- Customize the Ingredients: Feel free to add diced celery, pickles, or even a handful of fresh herbs like parsley for extra flavor.
- Dressing Consistency: Add more broth if you prefer a lighter dressing or more mayonnaise for a creamier texture.
- Keep it Chunky: Avoid overcooking the vegetables to maintain their shape and texture in the salad.
- Optional Additions: Sprinkle paprika or chili powder on top for a touch of color and flavor.
- Prep Ahead: This salad tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to blend.
Notes
- No Onion Added: This recipe skips onion to keep the flavors balanced, but you can add finely diced red or green onion if desired.
- Broth Tip: Mixing the mayo with a splash of chicken broth enhances the dressing’s flavor and makes it silkier.
- Optional Corn: The corn adds sweetness, but you can skip it or replace it with diced bell peppers for a crunchier texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, you can use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken to save time.
2. How do I avoid watery salad?
Make sure all cooked ingredients, especially the vegetables, are well-drained and cooled before mixing them into the salad.
3. What’s the best type of mayonnaise to use?
Use a high-quality mayonnaise or a homemade version for the best flavor. You can also use light mayo or vegan mayo if preferred.
4. How long does this salad last in the fridge?
Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.
5. Can I freeze this salad?
Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the potatoes, carrots, and mayonnaise changes when thawed.
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Serve cold. If reheating is necessary (for cooked ingredients), do so before mixing with the mayonnaise.
- Freezing: Not recommended.
Enjoy this creamy, hearty, and flavorful chicken salad with family and friends—it’s perfect for any occasion
