chicken salad with cherries recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best chicken salad with cherries recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite chicken salad with cherries recipe. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and it’s a perfect combination of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more. The addition of cherries gives it a sweet and tangy twist that makes it perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy lunch or a special dish to serve at your next gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. I’ve made this recipe countless times, and each time it’s been a hit with my family and friends. My kids love helping me make it, and they always ask for seconds (and sometimes even thirds!)

It’s also a great way to use up leftover chicken or turkey, making it a great option for meal prep or post-holiday meals. One of the things I love most about this recipe is the simplicity of its ingredients and the ease of preparation. It’s a great way to get creative with your meal planning without breaking the bank or spending too much time in the kitchen.

Plus, the health benefits of using fresh cherries are undeniable – they’re packed with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins that make this dish not only delicious but also nutritious. My family loves it because it’s easy to customize with their favorite fruits or nuts, making each serving unique and exciting. And let’s be real – who doesn’t love a good excuse to indulge in some creamy mayonnaise?

The key to making this recipe truly shine is in the balance of flavors – the sweetness of the cherries pairs perfectly with the savory taste of the chicken, while the mayonnaise adds just enough creaminess to tie everything together. I’ve experimented with various types of nuts and seeds, but walnuts are my absolute favorite addition to this recipe – they add a lovely crunch and depth of flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.

Chicken Salad with Cherries

Chicken Salad with Cherries

4.6 from 1276 votes

A refreshing and flavorful chicken salad featuring sweet cherries, crunchy celery, and a creamy dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or served on croissants for a delightful sandwich.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time15 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Salad

3 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved
1/2 cup celery, finely diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup toasted almonds, slivered
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For the Dressing

1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper.
2Whisk until smooth and creamy, then set aside.
3In a large mixing bowl, add the diced chicken, halved cherries, diced celery, chopped red onion, slivered almonds, and fresh parsley.
4Toss gently to combine.
5Pour the prepared dressing over the chicken mixture.
6Stir until all ingredients are evenly coated, ensuring the dressing is well distributed.
7Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
8Serve chilled on a bed of greens or as a sandwich filling.

🔧Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Small bowl
Whisk
Cutting board
Knife
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 75mg🧂Sodium: 550mg🌾Total Carbs: 12g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

For a lighter dressing, substitute all mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. If using frozen cherries, thaw and drain them before adding to prevent excess moisture.

Watch Video Of How Chicken Salad with Cherries Works

This recipe is perfect for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just need a quick lunch option. The combination of flavors and textures is unmatched, and its versatility makes it easy to customize according to your taste preferences.

One thing I love most about this recipe is its ability to accommodate leftovers – simply refrigerate or freeze as needed. When reheating leftovers, be sure to warm them gently over low heat until warmed through – you don’t want to overcook your delicious cherry-infused goodness!

As an added bonus, consider using leftover cooked chicken from last night’s dinner (or even last week’s!) as an easy shortcut.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Salad with Cherries

Q: What type of chicken is best for this recipe?

A: I prefer using cooked chicken breast or thighs for this recipe – it’s leaner than dark meat and holds up well to the cherry flavors.

Q: Can I substitute other types of fruit for the cherries?

A: While cherries are my first choice for this recipe, you can experiment with other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or even diced apples – just be mindful that different fruits may change the flavor profile slightly.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

A: No – while you can omit the chicken altogether, this recipe relies heavily on its savory flavor profile which wouldn’t translate well without it.

Q: Can I store leftover chicken salad in an airtight container?

A: Yes – however, be aware that mayonnaise-based dressings can become separated over time due to refrigeration; if this happens, simply give it a good stir before serving.

Q: How long does cooked chicken salad keep in the refrigerator?

A: Cooked chicken salad typically lasts 3-5 days when stored properly; however, if you notice any off odors or slimy texture develop during storage, discard immediately.

Q: Can I freeze cooked chicken salad?

A: Yes – simply portion out your desired amount into freezer-safe containers or ziplock bags; when thawing frozen chicken salad, ensure it reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) before consumption.

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