Chicken salad with celery

This chicken salad with celery combines tender chicken breasts, fresh celery, and aromatic herbs, all enveloped in a creamy mayonnaise dressing, making it a perfect quick lunch or light dinner. It's simple to prepare and packed with protein and flavour.

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05 May 2026
Cook time 25 min
Prep time 12 min

Ingredients:

8 chicken breasts
2 tbsp dried parsley
1 tbsp black pepper
2 tsp dried basil
2 stalks celery
1 stalk onion
1/2 cup mayonnaise salad dressing
Chicken salad with celery

Chicken salad with celery is a refreshing and protein-packed dish that's perfect for lunch or a light dinner. This recipe combines tender chicken breasts with the aromatic flavors of dried parsley and basil, the crunch of fresh celery, and a creamy mayonnaise dressing. It's a simple yet flavorful dish that can be quickly prepared and enjoyed by the whole family.

Instructions:

1. Cook the Chicken Breasts:
- Start by placing the chicken breasts in a large pot.
- Fill the pot with enough water to cover the chicken breasts.
- Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the chicken simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and allow it to cool. Once cooled, chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
- While the chicken is cooling, finely chop the celery stalks.
- Peel and finely chop the onion.
3. Mix the Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped chicken, celery, and onion.
- Add 2 tbsp of dried parsley, 1 tbsp of black pepper, and 2 tsp of dried basil to the bowl.
- Add 1/2 cup of mayonnaise salad dressing to the bowl.
- Gently stir all ingredients together until well combined. Ensure that the mayonnaise coats the chicken and vegetables evenly.
4. Season to Taste:
- Taste the chicken salad and adjust the seasonings if necessary. You can add a little more black pepper or dried basil according to your preference. Optionally add some fresh parsley.
5. Chill (Optional):
- For best results, cover the bowl and refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve:
- Serve the chicken salad on a bed of lettuce, in a sandwich, or enjoy it as is.

In conclusion, chicken salad with dried basil and celery is a versatile and delicious dish that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. By following these steps and tips, you'll create a flavorful and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed on its own, on a sandwich, or even served on a bed of greens. Enjoy your homemade chicken salad!

Chicken salad with celery FAQ:

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken is cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165Β°F (75Β°C). You can also check for doneness by cutting into the thickest part; there should be no pink meat remaining.

Can I make this chicken salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this chicken salad up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for best flavor and freshness.

What can I substitute for mayonnaise if I want a lighter option?

You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter option, or use a mixture of yogurt and a small amount of mustard for added flavor.

What sizes of chicken breasts should I use for this recipe?

It's best to use medium-sized chicken breasts, approximately 6-8 ounces each, to ensure they cook evenly and properly within the suggested cooking time.

How can I store leftover chicken salad?

Store leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For optimal freshness, avoid leaving it at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Cooking Tips:

- Cook the Chicken Properly: Make sure to cook the chicken breasts thoroughly until they reach an internal temperature of 165Β°F (75Β°C). This ensures the chicken is safe to eat and retains its juiciness.

- Cool the Chicken: Allow the chicken to cool completely before shredding or chopping it for the salad. This helps maintain the texture and prevents the mayonnaise from becoming too runny.

- Use Fresh Celery: For the best crunch, use fresh celery stalks. Make sure to wash them thoroughly and slice them thinly for even texture throughout the salad.

- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the amount of black pepper, parsley, and basil to suit your taste preferences. A small taste test before serving can help you decide if additional seasoning is needed.

- Chill Before Serving: For best results, allow the chicken salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and enhances the overall taste.

- Serve with Options: Chicken salad can be served in various ways: on bread as a sandwich, with crackers as a snack, or on a bed of greens for a lighter meal.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 380kcal
Protein 55g
Carbohydrates 9g
Fiber 2.55g
Sugar 4.08g
Fat 13g

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