Name: Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad: A Sweet and Spicy Delight You’ll Love
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; 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

Imagine bringing together the sweet and tart flavors of cherries with a spicy kick from jalapenos—sounds intriguing, right? This is exactly what the Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad offers! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience packed with vibrant flavors and textures that can elevate your lunch or dinner game. With a mere 20 minutes of prep time, you have a delicious, filling salad that’s great for meal prep or casual get-togethers.

Why Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad is the Perfect Homemade Meal

The combination of ingredients in this salad makes it a standout choice for busy young professionals. You'll find savory shredded chicken, crunchy almonds, and the unexpected zing from fresh jalapenos. Plus, it’s versatile! Whether you’re slapping it on a sandwich, serving it with crackers, or eating it straight from the bowl, it is designed to satisfy.

This recipe is not only simple and quick, but it’s also dietary-friendly. Using Greek yogurt alongside mayonnaise makes it creamy but lighter, offering a rich taste without the guilt. Did you know that incorporating ingredients like dried tart cherries can provide antioxidants?

Check out more about their health benefits here. So grab your apron and get ready to indulge in a salad that’s as exciting as it is nourishing!

Ready to dive deeper? Let's jump into the full recipe for this delicious Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad.

Ingredients for Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

If you're ready to whip up a Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad that’s both simple and delightful, let’s take a closer look at the fresh ingredients you'll need. Here’s how you can bring together the perfect balance of flavors!

Creamy Base: Start with ¼ cup of mayonnaise and ¼ cup of plain Greek yogurt for that rich, creamy texture.
Tangy Flavor: Add 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard and the juice of 1 lemon for a zesty kick.
Savory Chicken: You’ll need 2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken—a great way to use leftovers!
Fruity Sweetness: For a touch of sweetness, have 1 cup of dried tart cherries on hand.
Crunch Factor: Toss in ½ cup of sliced almonds for added texture.
Spicy Heat: Include 2 diced jalapeno peppers for a bit of heat—don’t forget to remove the seeds!
Fresh Veggies: Add 2 sliced green onions and 1 diced celery rib for a fresh crunch.
Herbal Touch: Finally, sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of finely chopped parsley for a burst of flavor.

These ingredients come together to create a salad that's as unique as it is delicious! For more recipe inspiration, check out this article on healthy salads.

Preparing Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Creating a delightful Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad is not just about combining ingredients—it's about crafting a delicious experience that delights your taste buds. Here’s a concise guide to preparing this savory dish packed with flavors!

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Before you dive into the culinary adventure, make sure you have all your ingredients ready. This will streamline the process and keep your kitchen organized. For this delicious Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad, 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

Having everything on hand means you can focus on creating something truly special.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Dressing

The dressing is the heart of any great salad. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the creamy mayonnaise, velvety Greek yogurt, zesty Dijon mustard, and fresh lemon juice. Season with a pinch of kosher salt and pepper. This combination not only adds creaminess but also a tangy kick that complements the chicken and cherries perfectly. If you're looking for a lighter option, consider using avocado instead of mayonnaise for a refreshing twist.

Step 3: Combine the Chicken and Fruits

Next, it’s time to add the star ingredients. Stir in the cooked, shredded chicken along with the dried tart cherries, diced jalapenos, and all those colorful veggies like sliced green onions and diced celery. Each of these ingredients brings a unique texture and flavor to the salad. By adding the cherries, you introduce a sweet-tart punch that, when paired with jalapenos, creates a vibrant contrast.

Step 4: Add the Crunch

To elevate your Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad, it's essential to incorporate some crunch. Toss in the sliced almonds—they provide a satisfying bite and nutty flavor that balances the other ingredients. Plus, a little bit of almond crunch goes great with the creamy dressing, creating a delightful mouthfeel with every bite.

Step 5: Season and Chill

Finally, taste your salad and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed. After perfecting the flavor, cover your bowl and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making the salad even more delicious.

And there you have it! Your vibrant and zesty Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad is ready to serve. Whether you're packing it for lunch or excited to share it at a picnic, you’ll love how the flavors come together in this tasty dish. Enjoy!

Variations on Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Tropical twist with pineapple

For a delightful tropical twist on your Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad, consider adding fresh pineapple chunks. This addition brings a juicy sweetness that perfectly complements the tart cherries and spicy jalapeños. Just a half a cup of pineapple, either fresh or canned (drained) will infuse a tropical flair that makes this salad great for summer picnics or light lunches. Plus, pineapple is rich in vitamin C and can elevate the dish's nutritional profile!

Spicy kick with extra jalapenos

If you crave a bit more heat, why not amp up the spiciness with additional jalapeños? Slice up an extra pepper or two (depending on your heat tolerance) and mix them in. This variation will only intensify the salad's flavor profile, making it a great option for spicy food lovers. It’s an ideal choice for game-day gatherings when you want to impress friends with something that packs a punch!

Feel free to experiment and discover your favorite spin on this Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad. The possibilities are endless! For further recipe inspiration, check out Bon Appétit or Food Network.

Cooking Tips for Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Making a delicious Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad is easy with a few helpful tips. First, ensure your chicken is shredded evenly; this helps the flavors blend beautifully. If you're in a rush, using a rotisserie chicken can save time!

For a creamy and tangy dressing, balance the mayonnaise with greek yogurt, but feel free to adjust based on your desired consistency! Want more heat? Keep some jalapeno seeds for an extra kick. Lastly, letting the salad sit in the fridge for about an hour enhances the flavors, making each bite even more delightful.

For more tips on dressing balance, check out these resources from The Kitchn or Serious Eats.

Serving Suggestions for Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

When it comes to enjoying your Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad, the serving possibilities are delightful and versatile. Here are a few suggestions to elevate your dish:

On a Croissant: Scoop the salad into a flaky croissant for a brunch treat that's both savory and slightly sweet. It’s a perfect afternoon pick-me-up!
With Crackers: Pair this salad with your favorite crunchy crackers for a satisfying snack or appetizer. The contrast of textures is simply irresistible.
Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter option, serve the salad in crispy romaine or butter lettuce leaves. This is a refreshing way to savor every bite!
Top a Bed of Greens: Create a vibrant salad bowl by placing the Chicken Salad over a mix of baby greens. Add some sliced cherry tomatoes for color!

Feel free to get creative—what’s your favorite way to enjoy a chicken salad? For more inspiration, check out these healthy salad ideas, and let your culinary imagination run wild!

Time details for Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Preparation time

Making your Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad is a breeze! You'll spend about 20 minutes gathering your ingredients and mixing everything together. It's a quick and satisfying way to whip up a delicious meal or snack.

Total time

From start to finish, this recipe takes just 20 minutes. Perfect for a busy weekday lunch or a last-minute gathering, this salad is as efficient as it is tasty. Want to elevate your lunchtime game? Check out other quick recipes like these 30-minute pasta dishes for more inspiration!

Nutritional Information for Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Calories

This Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad is not only delicious but also relatively light, containing approximately 350 calories per serving. It’s an excellent option for lunch or a quick snack without compromising your dietary goals!

Protein

Packed with flavor from the shredded chicken and almonds, this salad offers a hearty 30 grams of protein per serving. It’s a fantastic way to fuel your day, especially if you're active or looking to build muscle.

Sodium

For those monitoring their sodium intake, this salad contains about 500 milligrams of sodium per serving, depending on the mayonnaise and mustard brands used. Feel free to choose low-sodium alternatives to further tailor it to your dietary needs!

Enjoy the incredible flavors of this Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad while keeping your nutritional goals in check!

FAQs about Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried?

Absolutely! Fresh cherries will bring a delightful burst of juiciness to your Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad. Just remember to pit and chop them into bite-sized pieces. Keep in mind that fresh cherries are a bit sweeter and juicier than dried ones, so adjust your seasoning accordingly to balance the flavors.

How long can I store the salad in the fridge?

You can store your Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad in the fridge for up to three days. In fact, the flavors often meld together nicely, making it even tastier the next day. Just make sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

What other proteins can I use in this salad?

If you're looking to switch things up, there are several other protein options you can try! Turkey bacon, chicken ham, or even grilled tofu for a vegetarian twist can work wonderfully. The great thing about this salad is its versatility – feel free to experiment with what you have on hand!

For more tips on enhancing your chicken salad, check out these ideas from Eating Well!

Conclusion on Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

In conclusion, this Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad is not only quick to prepare, but it's also a delightful fusion of flavors that can brighten any meal. Whether served in a sandwich or alongside crackers, its unique mix will leave your taste buds dancing. Enjoy this refreshing dish any time!