Name: Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad: Easy and Flavorful Summer Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: ¼ cup mayonnaise; ¼ 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; ½ cup sliced almonds; 2 jalapeno peppers seeds removed and diced; 2 green onions thinly sliced; 1 rib celery, diced; 2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley

Introduction to Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Why you’ll love Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Looking for a refreshing and unique dish for your next lunch or potluck? Look no further than Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad! This flavorful salad combines the savory goodness of shredded chicken with the sweet-tart punch of dried cherries and the subtle heat of jalapenos. Imagine a delightful blend that excites your taste buds while also being incredibly easy to prepare.

This versatility shines through not just in its flavors, but in how you can enjoy it. Serve it in a sandwich for a satisfying meal, pair it with crackers for a perfect snack, or simply enjoy it straight from the bowl. Plus, making it ahead of time allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the overall taste.

According to health experts, incorporating lean proteins like shredded chicken and nuts like sliced almonds can support a balanced diet. This cherry jalapeno twist not only satisfies your cravings but also adds a nutritious boost. If you’re curious to explore more creative chicken salad variations, check out this article from the American Heart Association.

So gather your ingredients and let's dive into the vibrant and flavorful world of Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad!

Ingredients for Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Creating a delightful Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad is simple and fun! Start with these essential ingredients that blend together sweet, savory, and spicy flavors to create a dish that’s sure to impress.

¼ cup mayonnaise: This adds creaminess to the salad. Feel free to use a low-fat version if you prefer.
¼ cup plain Greek yogurt: Use this for a tangy twist and added protein, making your salad a bit healthier.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: This brings a zesty kick that perfectly complements the chicken and cherries.
1 lemon, juiced: Fresh juice brightens the flavors and adds a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness.
Kosher salt and pepper: Don’t forget these staples for seasoning!
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken: A great way to use leftovers or rotisserie chicken; choose your favorite lean protein.
1 cup dried tart cherries: They provide a lovely sweetness and chewy texture.
½ cup sliced almonds: For a satisfying crunch!
2 jalapeno peppers, seeds removed and diced: These add a spicy element; adjust based on your heat tolerance.
2 green onions, thinly sliced: These offer a mild onion flavor that pairs beautifully.
1 celery rib, diced: For freshness and extra crunch.
2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley: This herb adds a pop of color and fresh flavor.

These ingredients combine to create a Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad that’s not only tasty but also a feast for the eyes! If you’re curious about how to incorporate more seasonal fruits into your meals, check out this guide from EatingWell. You'll find plenty of ideas that can elevate your everyday dishes. Enjoy experimenting with this delicious salad!

Preparing Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Creating a delicious Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad may seem complicated, but it’s actually quite straightforward and incredibly satisfying! Perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish, let’s walk through each step to make this flavorful salad that balances sweetness and just the right amount of heat.

Gather your ingredients

To start, let’s make sure you have all the necessary ingredients. Having everything ready before you begin can make the process smoother and more enjoyable. 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
1 cup dried tart cherries
½ cup sliced almonds
2 jalapeno peppers, seeds removed and diced
2 green onions, thinly sliced
1 celery rib, diced
2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley

Don’t forget to lay everything out on your countertop; it helps keep the flow going! For more ideas on ingredient combinations, check out Cooking Light.

Make the creamy dressing

Next up, let’s whip together the creamy dressing that ties this Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad together. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together your mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and a pinch of kosher salt and pepper. Feel free to adjust the amounts based on your taste preferences — a little more mustard adds zing, while a hint more lemon juice amplifies the fresh flavor.

Combine the salad ingredients

Now comes the fun part! In the same bowl, stir in the cooked shredded chicken, dried tart cherries, sliced almonds, diced jalapenos, green onions, celery, and parsley. This mixture should be vibrant and colorful. The tart cherries and crunchy almonds complement the savory chicken beautifully, while the jalapenos add a kick that you’ll love!

Taste and adjust seasonings

Before you serve your Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad, don’t forget to taste it! This is your chance to personalize it. Perhaps it needs more salt or a little more zing? Make those adjustments until you’re satisfied. Remember, you can always add a pinch more, but you can't take it away once it's in!

Storage tips for future meals

If you find you have leftovers or if you’re meal prepping, storing is key. This salad can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. In fact, letting it sit overnight often enhances its flavor — a win-win! Perfect for quick lunches or snack options throughout the week.

By following these simple steps, you can create a Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad that is not only easy to make but also packed with flavors that will impress. Enjoy your culinary creation!

Variations on Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Elevate your Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad experience with these delightful variations tailored to suit your taste!

Swap Out the Chicken for Turkey Bacon

If you're looking for a delicious twist, consider swapping the shredded chicken for crispy turkey bacon. The smoky flavor adds a unique depth, transforming your salad into a savory delight! Just cook the turkey bacon until crispy, crumble it, and mix it in with the other ingredients for a satisfying crunch.

Add Different Nuts or Seeds

Mixing in different nuts or seeds can enhance both flavor and texture in your Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad. Try adding roasted walnuts for a rich, buttery taste or sunflower seeds for a touch of crunch. Both options provide added nutrition, including healthy fats and protein – perfect for keeping you energized throughout your busy day!

Experimenting with these variations can keep your meals exciting and tailored to your preferences. Happy cooking!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

When preparing your Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad, keep these tips in mind for a delightful dish:

Customize Your Heat: If you prefer a milder flavor, remove all seeds from the jalapeno. For more spice, leave a few seeds intact. You could also substitute with a sweeter pepper for a completely different taste.
Opt for Fresh Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality chicken will elevate your salad. If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut that doesn’t compromise flavor.
Chill for Flavor: Allow the salad to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving; it enhances the flavors and lets the ingredients meld together beautifully.
Versatile Serving Ideas: Enjoy the salad on whole-grain bread, wrapped in lettuce for a low-carb option, or simply on crackers for a quick bite.

Remember, experimenting with ratios of cherries to jalapenos can yield a unique flavor profile. Enjoy crafting your own version of this tasty salad!

Serving Suggestions for Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

When it comes to enjoying your Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad, the serving possibilities are as vibrant as the flavors. Here are some delightful suggestions to elevate your dish:

On Bread: Spread this salad on crusty artisan bread or as a filling for a wrap. Toasted bread adds a nice crunch!
With Crackers: Pair it with whole-grain or gluten-free crackers for a light snack or appetizer. This balance of creamy and crunchy is truly satisfying.
As Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, serve the salad in crisp lettuce leaves like romaine or butter lettuce. Easy, fresh, and fun!
With a Side Salad: Pair your chicken salad with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to keep things refreshing.

Why not get creative? Try it as a topping for baked potatoes or mixed into a grain bowl. The more ways you explore, the more you'll appreciate this unique flavor combination! For more insights on serving salads, check out resources from experts like The Kitchn or Serious Eats.

Time Breakdown for Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Preparation Time

Getting ready to whip up this delightful Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad takes just about 20 minutes. That’s right! With the right ingredients and a little kitchen organization, you can create this flavorful dish in no time.

Total Time

The total time you’ll spend on this scrumptious salad is also 20 minutes. Whether you’re planning a quick lunch, a potluck contribution, or a meal prep option for the week, this salad is the perfect choice that won’t keep you in the kitchen for long.

Tips to Maximize Your Time

Prep Ahead: If you like to meal prep, consider shredding the chicken or chopping the veggies in advance. This can save you even more time during the week.
Storage: This salad can be refrigerated for up to three days, so feel free to make extra for those busy days ahead.

Embrace the balance of sweet and spicy in this dish, and you’ll find it effortlessly fits into your busy lifestyle! For more healthy recipes, check out EatingWell for nutritious inspiration.

Nutritional Facts for Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Calories

A serving of Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad contains approximately 300 calories. This makes it a satisfying option that won't derail your healthy eating goals. It’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner, fueling your busy day without weighing you down.

Protein

This delicious salad is rich in protein, offering around 30 grams per serving thanks to the shredded chicken. Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth, making this salad a great post-workout choice to help keep you feeling full and energized.

Carbohydrates

With about 25 grams of carbohydrates, the Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad strikes a great balance. The dried tart cherries provide natural sweetness while the almonds add a nice crunch, making every bite a delightful experience. Plus, with fiber from cherries and celery, this dish supports digestive health.

This salad not only delights your taste buds but also nourishes your body, making it a fabulous choice for anyone looking to eat healthier!

FAQs about Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried?
Absolutely! While dried cherries offer a concentrated sweetness and chewiness, using fresh cherries can add a juicy burst of flavor. If you opt for fresh cherries, you may want to adjust the seasoning slightly to balance the salad’s flavors, as fresh cherries will introduce more moisture and a different texture.

What can I serve with Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad?
This savory salad can be incredibly versatile! You can enjoy it on whole-grain sandwiches, atop a bed of mixed greens, or even as a dip with crackers or veggies. Pairing it with a refreshing side salad or sweet potato fries can elevate your meal. For a special touch, consider serving it with a light, tangy vinaigrette.

How long does it last in the fridge?
Your Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad will generally stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days. It actually becomes more flavorful as it sits, so making it ahead of time is a fantastic idea. Just be sure to keep it sealed in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.

For more tips on making your chicken salad shine, check out this great resource.

Conclusion on Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

In summary, the Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad is a delightful fusion of flavors, offering a unique twist to your lunch routine. With its tangy cherries and spicy jalapenos, it's a dish that brings joy to your taste buds while being super easy to prepare. Perfect for meal prep or quick lunches, this salad is a winner! Enjoy it on sandwiches, with crackers, or on its own.

For more salad inspiration, check out our favorite healthy lunch recipes, and elevate your lunchtime game. Happy cooking!