Cherry Chicken Salad: The Ultimate Summer Recipe

Cherry chicken salad, a delightful twist on a classic favorite, is about to become your new go-to lunch! Imagine biting into tender chunks of chicken, bursting with the sweet and tart flavors of juicy cherries, all enveloped in a creamy, tangy dressing. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you craving more.

While the exact origins of chicken salad are debated, it’s generally believed to have emerged in the late 19th century, evolving from simple chicken and mayonnaise mixtures to the diverse and flavorful variations we enjoy today. Adding cherries, however, is a more modern innovation, bringing a touch of elegance and unexpected sweetness to this timeless dish. This particular cherry chicken salad recipe elevates the traditional version, making it perfect for a light lunch, a picnic in the park, or even a sophisticated brunch.

People adore chicken salad for its versatility and convenience. It’s quick to prepare, easily customizable, and incredibly satisfying. The addition of cherries not only enhances the flavor profile but also adds a vibrant pop of color, making it visually appealing. The sweetness of the cherries perfectly complements the savory chicken and creamy dressing, creating a balanced and irresistible combination. Get ready to experience a chicken salad like never before!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• For the Dressing:
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• For the Salad:
• 1 cup red seedless grapes, halved
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1/2 cup dried cherries, roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts, toasted
• 1/4 cup chopped red onion (optional)
• Lettuce leaves, for serving (optional)
• Croissants or bread, for serving (optional)

Preparing the Chicken:

1. Prepare the Chicken Breasts: First, I like to make sure my chicken breasts are relatively uniform in thickness. If they’re very thick on one end, I’ll gently pound them with a meat mallet to even them out. This helps them cook evenly.
2. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub the olive oil all over the chicken breasts, then sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides. Make sure every part of the chicken is seasoned well!
3. Cook the Chicken (Option 1: Pan-Seared): Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to be sure! The chicken should be nicely browned on the outside and cooked through.
4. Cook the Chicken (Option 2: Baked): Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Again, a meat thermometer is your best friend here.
5. Cook the Chicken (Option 3: Slow Cooker): Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a slow cooker. Add 1/2 cup of chicken broth or water to the bottom of the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds.
6. Let the Chicken Cool: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet, oven, or slow cooker and let it cool slightly. This is important because you don’t want to add hot chicken to the dressing, as it can make the mayonnaise separate.
7. Shred or Dice the Chicken: Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, shred it with two forks or dice it into bite-sized pieces. I personally prefer dicing for this salad, but shredded chicken works just as well!

Making the Dressing:

1. Combine the Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, honey, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined and the dressing is smooth and creamy.
2. Taste and Adjust: Give the dressing a taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. If you prefer a sweeter dressing, add a little more honey. If you like it tangier, add a bit more lemon juice. Don’t be afraid to experiment!
3. Chill the Dressing (Optional): For the best flavor, I recommend chilling the dressing in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before using it. This allows the flavors to meld together. However, if you’re short on time, you can use it immediately.

Assembling the Cherry Chicken Salad:

1. Combine the Chicken and Dressing: In a large bowl, gently fold the shredded or diced chicken into the dressing. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated with the dressing.
2. Add the Fruits and Vegetables: Add the halved grapes, diced celery, chopped dried cherries, and chopped pecans or walnuts (and red onion, if using) to the bowl. Gently fold everything together until it’s evenly distributed.
3. Chill the Salad: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the salad to chill thoroughly. Chilling is key for the best flavor!
4. Serve the Salad: Serve the cherry chicken salad on lettuce leaves, in croissants, or on your favorite bread. It’s also delicious served with crackers or as a side dish.

Tips and Variations:

• Add Herbs: Fresh herbs like chopped parsley, tarragon, or chives can add a bright, fresh flavor to the salad.
• Use Different Nuts: If you don’t have pecans or walnuts, you can use almonds, cashews, or even sunflower seeds.
• Add Cheese: Crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese would be a delicious addition to this salad.
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing for a little kick.
• Use Greek Yogurt: Substitute some of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
• Make it Ahead: This salad can be made a day or two in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Serving Suggestions: This cherry chicken salad is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas:
  • Sandwiches or Wraps: Spread the salad on croissants, bread, or wraps for a quick and easy lunch.
  • Lettuce Wraps: Serve the salad in lettuce cups for a light and refreshing meal.
  • Crackers: Serve the salad with crackers as an appetizer or snack.
  • Salad Plate: Serve the salad as part of a larger salad plate with other sides like fruit, vegetables, and cheese.
  • Stuffed Tomatoes or Avocados: Hollow out tomatoes or avocados and fill them with the chicken salad for a beautiful and delicious presentation.

Storing Leftovers:

Store any leftover cherry chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to consume it within that time frame for the best quality and safety.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

(Note: Nutritional information can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

Per Serving (estimated, based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 400-450
• Protein: 30-35g
• Fat: 25-30g
• Carbohydrates: 15-20g
• Fiber: 2-3g

Enjoy your delicious and easy-to-make Cherry Chicken Salad! I hope you love it as much as I do!

Conclusion:

This isn’t just another chicken salad recipe; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! The sweet burst of cherries perfectly complements the savory chicken, creating a delightful dance on your taste buds that you absolutely must experience. Seriously, if you’re looking for a way to elevate your lunch game or impress guests at your next gathering, this cherry chicken salad is your secret weapon.

But why is it a must-try? Beyond the incredible taste, it’s incredibly versatile and easy to make. We’re talking minimal effort for maximum reward. You can whip up a batch in minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu picnics. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover cooked chicken, reducing food waste and saving you money. It’s a win-win!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

The possibilities are truly endless when it comes to serving this delightful salad. My personal favorite is piled high on a buttery croissant for a truly decadent lunch. But don’t stop there!

* Sandwich Superstar: Use your favorite bread – sourdough, whole wheat, or even a gluten-free option. Add a layer of crisp lettuce and a slice of tomato for extra freshness.

* Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter, healthier option, serve the cherry chicken salad in crisp lettuce cups. Boston lettuce or romaine hearts work perfectly.

* Crackers and Crostini: Spread it on crackers or toasted crostini for a delicious appetizer or snack. A sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts adds a delightful crunch.

* Salad Topper: Add a scoop of cherry chicken salad to a bed of mixed greens for a complete and satisfying meal. Consider adding crumbled goat cheese or feta for an extra layer of flavor.

* Stuffed Avocado: Halve an avocado and fill it with the cherry chicken salad for a healthy and visually appealing dish.

* Pasta Salad: Toss the cherry chicken salad with cooked pasta (rotini or penne work well) for a unique and flavorful pasta salad. Add some chopped celery and red onion for extra crunch.

* Grilled Cheese Upgrade: Spread a thin layer of cherry chicken salad inside a grilled cheese sandwich for a surprising and delicious twist.

And if you’re feeling adventurous, don’t be afraid to experiment with variations!

* Add Some Spice: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can add a subtle kick.

* Herb It Up: Fresh herbs like dill, tarragon, or parsley can elevate the flavor profile.

* Nutty Goodness: Add toasted almonds, pecans, or walnuts for extra crunch and flavor.

* Fruity Fun: Experiment with other fruits like grapes, cranberries, or chopped apples.

I truly believe you’ll fall in love with this cherry chicken salad as much as I have. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s both delicious and easy to make. So, what are you waiting for? Head to the kitchen, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece!

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you do, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. Let me know what variations you tried, what you served it with, and what your family and friends thought. I can’t wait to hear all about it! Happy cooking!