Name: Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad: A Juicy Twist with Turkey Bacon
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 0.25 cups mayonnaise; 0.25 cups plain greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 lemon juiced; kosher salt; pepper; 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken; 1 cup dried tart cherries; 0.5 cups 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

When it comes to fresh and exciting flavors, Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad stands out as a delightful option. This dish masterfully combines the sweet and tart notes of cherries with the zesty kick from jalapeños, creating a wonderfully refreshing salad that’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner. Whether you're looking for a quick meal prep option for your busy week or a crowd-pleaser for your next gathering, this salad is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Refreshing Chicken Salad

One of the best aspects of this salad is its versatility. Serve it on hearty whole grain bread for a satisfying sandwich, or enjoy it alongside a handful of crackers for a simple snack. With just 20 minutes of prep time, it’s super easy to whip up and tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours. Plus, you can customize the recipe based on your preference! Feel free to adjust the heat by adding more or fewer jalapeños and experiment with different nuts or chicken types, such as turkey bacon or chicken ham.

Get ready to savor a blend of textures and flavors that’s both refreshing and satisfying! For tips on how to cook and shred chicken efficiently, check out this guide. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients for Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Creating a delightful Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad requires just a handful of ingredients, each bringing its unique flavor to the mix. Here’s what you need:

List of Necessary Ingredients

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

Tips on Ingredient Quality

For this Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad, choosing high-quality ingredients makes all the difference. Opt for fresher items, especially when it comes to your vegetables and herbs. Organic or locally sourced produce often has better flavor. When selecting your dried cherries, look for those with minimal added preservatives or sweeteners—this keeps your salad’s flavor profile balanced. Lastly, consider using rotisserie chicken for convenience and enhanced flavor; just shred it up, and you're ready to go!

For more tips on choosing the best ingredients, check out USDA guidelines on selecting fruits and vegetables. This way, you'll ensure your salad is as tasty and nutritious as possible!

Step-by-step preparation of Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Creating a delicious Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad is not only an enjoyable cooking experience but also a delightful journey of flavors! Follow these steps to whip up a vibrant dish that's perfect for lunch or as a picnic surprise.

Gather your ingredients

Before you start, it's crucial to have everything on hand. Here's what you need:

¼ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Juice of 1 lemon
Kosher salt and pepper to taste
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (leftovers work great!)
1 cup dried tart cherries
½ cup sliced almonds
2 jalapeno peppers, seeds removed and diced for less heat
2 green onions, thinly sliced
1 celery rib, diced for crunch
2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley for freshness

Having these ingredients ready to go will make your cooking process smooth and enjoyable!

Make the dressing

Start by blending the creamy base for your salad. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and the freshly squeezed lemon juice. This mixture serves as the heart of the salad, providing a rich yet tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cherries and the kick of the jalapenos. Don’t forget to add a pinch of kosher salt and pepper to enhance the taste.

Combine the chicken and other ingredients

Once your dressing is ready, it’s time to bring everything together. Add the shredded chicken, dried cherries, sliced almonds, diced jalapenos, green onions, celery, and parsley to the bowl. Gently fold all the ingredients together until they are well coated with the dressing. Each bite should be a perfect blend of savory and sweet, with a subtle kick of heat.

Adjust seasoning and flavor

Now you’re nearing the finish line! Give your salad a taste, and this is where you can make it truly your own. Feel free to adjust the seasoning — you might want a little more salt, a dash of pepper, or even an extra squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. Balancing the flavors will take your Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad to the next level!

Chill and serve

Lastly, let your salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making every bite a delight! When you're ready to serve, you can enjoy it on its own, or as a filling in a sandwich, on crackers, or even on a bed of greens. Serve it cold and watch it brighten up any table!

This Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad is a fantastic way to enjoy a refreshing meal packed with flavors. Get creative with your presentation and enjoy!

Variations on Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Add fruits for a tropical twist
Elevate your Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad by adding fruits like diced mango, pineapple, or even a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds. These juicy additions can create a refreshingly sweet contrast to the savory chicken and spicy jalapeños. Mixing in these vibrant fruits not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the salad’s visual appeal, making it perfect for gatherings or a bright lunch at your desk.

Incorporate more heat with different peppers
If you crave a bolder kick, consider swapping out jalapeños for other varieties like serrano or habanero peppers. Just remember, the heat levels can vary dramatically, so pick according to your spice tolerance! Alternatively, roasting the peppers can deepen their flavor while keeping the Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad delightful and satisfying. Explore pepper options and create a personal favorite by combining multiple types for a unique taste!

For more culinary inspirations, you can check out resources like Epicurious to find creative combinations!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Storage Tips for Leftovers

To keep your Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay delicious for up to three days, and you might find that the flavors deepen with time, making it even more satisfying. If you anticipate having leftovers, consider keeping the crunchy elements, like sliced almonds, separate to maintain their texture.

Balancing Flavors for a Perfect Taste

Achieving the ideal flavor balance in your Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad is essential. Adjust the heat by adding more or fewer jalapeños to suit your palate—don't be shy! Additionally, a squeeze of extra lemon juice can enhance the tartness, while a pinch of sugar can balance out any acidity. Remember, taste as you mix! This ensures your salad is as delightful as your personal preferences. For more tips on balancing flavors, check out this culinary guide for inspiration.

Serving suggestions for Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

When it comes to enjoying your Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad, versatility is key! Here are some delightful serving ideas to elevate your experience:

Enjoy it on sandwiches or wraps

Transform your salad into a delicious sandwich or wrap by spreading it between two slices of your favorite bread or rolling it up in a tortilla. For an added crunch, consider using whole grain or ciabatta bread. You can even layer in fresh greens like spinach or arugula for a refreshing bite.

Pair it with crackers or fresh veggies

If you're looking for a light snack or appetizer, scoop your Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad onto whole grain crackers or serve it with crispy fresh veggies, such as cucumber or bell pepper slices. This pairing not only enhances the flavors but also adds a satisfying crunch.

Explore these options to enjoy your salad in new and exciting ways!

Time Breakdown for Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Preparation Time

Preparing your Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad will take about 20 minutes. This is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner fix. Just gather your ingredients, and you’ll be enjoying a deliciously unique salad in no time!

Total Time

From start to finish, you can whip up this tasty salad in 20 minutes. It's quick, easy, and packed with tantalizing flavors that will make your tastebuds dance. For added convenience, consider making it ahead of time to allow the flavors to meld perfectly.

Ready to get started? Dive into our full recipe and enjoy a delightful blend of flavors that’s sure to impress!

Nutritional Facts for Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

When you're craving something delicious yet healthy, Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad fits the bill perfectly. Here’s a quick look at its nutritional profile:

Calories

A serving of this zesty salad contains approximately 350 calories, making it a satisfying yet not overly indulgent option for lunch or dinner.

Protein

Rich in protein, this salad boasts around 30 grams per serving, primarily from the shredded chicken. It's ideal for those looking to maintain or build muscle.

Fiber

With the inclusion of dried tart cherries and almonds, you'll find about 5 grams of fiber in each serving. This helps support digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.

Preparing this salad is not only a delightful culinary experience but also a nutritious choice that aligns with your health goals. For more insights on the benefits of these ingredients, check out the Nutritional Guidelines provided by the USDA.

FAQs about Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! This Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad is perfect for meal prep. It actually tastes better after sitting for a few hours or even overnight, as the flavors meld together beautifully. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and it will stay fresh for up to three days. This makes it a fantastic option for busy weekdays or gatherings!

What if I don’t like spicy food?

No worries! The jalapeños add a kick, but you can easily adjust the spice level to suit your taste. Simply reduce the amount of jalapeño or omit it completely for a milder version. You can always add a dash of hot sauce to your serving if you're feeling adventurous after tasting the base salad.

Can I use different proteins in this salad?

Certainly! While shredded chicken is the star of this Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad, feel free to switch it up if you prefer other proteins. Turkey bacon, diced tofu, or even shrimp can work wonderfully. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly to complement the new flavors! For some insights on protein alternatives, check out choosemyplate.gov.

Conclusion on Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

In conclusion, this Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad is a must-try for anyone seeking a unique twist on a classic dish. The combination of savory chicken, tart cherries, and spicy jalapenos creates a delightful explosion of flavors. Enjoy it on its own or as a filling in your favorite wraps or sandwiches!