Name: Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad: A Juicy Twist for Your Summer Table
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: ¼ cup mayonnaise; ¼ cup plain greek yogurt; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 lemon juiced; to taste kosher salt; to taste black pepper; 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken; 1 cup dried tart cherries; ½ cup sliced almonds; 2 pieces jalapeno peppers (seeds removed and diced); 2 pieces green onions (thinly sliced); 1 rib celery (diced); 2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley

Introduction to Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

If you’re a busy professional looking to shake up your lunch routine, the Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad is here to save the day! This zesty dish combines tender chicken, tangy cherries, and a kick of jalapeno that keeps your taste buds dancing. With just 20 minutes of prep time, you’ll have a wholesome meal ready for those hectic workdays.

Why is Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad a game changer for busy professionals?

When the clock is ticking, meal prep can often feel overwhelming. That’s where this chicken salad shines. Not only is it quick to whip up, but it also stores beautifully in the fridge for up to three days. Imagine having a delicious lunch waiting for you, packed with nutrients and flavor, rather than a sad sandwich.

Flexibility is key! Enjoy it on a bed of greens, as a filling for a sandwich, or even with crackers for a delightful snack.

Plus, this dish is rich in protein from the shredded chicken and grilled with vitamins from the vibrant veggies, providing the energy you need to power through your day. Explore more about meal prep strategies to optimize your busy lifestyle here and elevate your lunch game!

Ingredients for Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Creating a delicious Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad starts with the right ingredients. This flavor-packed dish combines savory, sweet, and spicy elements for a unique, satisfying meal. Let’s dive into what you’ll need!

Essential Ingredients

¼ cup mayonnaise: This adds creaminess and richness.
¼ cup plain Greek yogurt: A healthier alternative that brings tanginess.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: For a zesty kick.
1 lemon, juiced: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the flavors.
Kosher salt and pepper: To taste, elevating all the ingredients.
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken: A great source of protein.
1 cup dried tart cherries: These offer a sweet and tart contrast.
½ cup sliced almonds: A crunchy texture addition.
2 jalapeno peppers, seeds removed and diced: For just the right amount of heat.
2 green onions, thinly sliced: Adding a fresh, mild onion flavor.
1 celery rib, diced: For crunch and freshness.
2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley: A pop of color and freshness.

Optional Ingredients for a Unique Twist

Feel free to mix things up! Here are a few optional ingredients that can bring your Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad to a whole new level:

Turkey bacon or chicken ham: Adding crispness and savory depth.
Chopped bell peppers: For extra color and sweetness.
Feta cheese or goat cheese: A tangy twist that complements the cherries beautifully.
Avocado: For added creaminess and healthy fats.

Consider also drizzling some balsamic glaze on your salad for an extra layer of flavor! For more inspiration, check out Delicious Dinner Salads for other tasty alternatives. With these ingredients, you’re on your way to whipping up a delightful salad that’s sure to impress!

Step-by-step preparation of Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Creating a Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad is not only easy but also incredibly satisfying. It combines savory chicken with the sweetness of cherries and a hint of jalapeño kick, all wrapped up in a creamy dressing. Let's walk through the steps together!

Gather your ingredients

Before you dive into making the salad, it’s essential to have everything you need on hand. Here’s what you’ll require:

¼ cup mayonnaise
¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 lemon, juiced
Kosher salt and pepper
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (grilled or roasted works best!)
1 cup dried tart cherries
½ cup sliced almonds
2 jalapeño peppers, seeds removed and diced (adjust based on your spice preference)
2 green onions, thinly sliced
1 celery rib, diced
2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley

Once you’ve gathered these ingredients, you’re all set for some cooking fun!

Whisk the dressing together

Start your Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad by preparing the creamy dressing. In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Use a whisk to blend everything until it’s smooth and creamy. Don’t forget to add a pinch of kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. This base gives your salad that delicious creamy texture and tangy flavor.

Mix in the chicken and toppings

Next, it’s time to bring the salad to life! Add your cooked, shredded chicken into the dressing, along with the dried tart cherries, sliced almonds, diced jalapeños, green onions, diced celery, and chopped parsley. Gently fold everything together until all the ingredients are coated in that luscious dressing. This is where the magic happens, so mix well to let those flavors meld.

Adjust seasoning to taste

Once everything is mixed in, take a moment to taste your creation. This is the best part—decide how you want to enhance the flavors! You might want an extra squeeze of lemon, a little more salt, or maybe even a hint of heat from more jalapeños. The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. Don’t be shy about tweaking it until it’s just right for your palate.

Chill before serving for enhanced flavors

For the cherry jalapeño chicken salad to reach its full potential, it’s best to let it chill for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator before serving. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld beautifully. You can serve it on a sandwich, with crackers, or even as a main dish over a bed of greens.

Enjoy creating and savoring your delicious Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad. Want more salad ideas? Check out this link for a range of delectable recipes fitting every occasion!

Variations on Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Tropical Twist with Pineapple

For a delightful tropical twist, consider adding fresh pineapple chunks to your Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad. The sweetness of the pineapple complements the tartness of the cherries beautifully, creating an exciting flavor profile. This simple addition not only brightens the dish but also adds a juicy texture that’s perfect for summer picnics or light lunches.

Substitute Chicken with Turkey Bacon

Looking for a different flavor? Swap out the chicken for turkey bacon! This provides a smoky, savory note that pairs well with the spicy jalapenos and sweet cherries. Cook the turkey bacon until crispy, crumble it into the salad, and experience a whole new take on this classic recipe. You could even try this quick guide for cooking perfectly crispy bacon.

Feel free to experiment with these variations and make this Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad uniquely yours!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Choosing the Right Type of Chicken

When it comes to making your Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad, opt for rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor! If you prefer a healthier twist, poaching or grilling chicken breast adds a lean protein that perfectly balances the sweetness of the cherries. Make sure the chicken is evenly cooked and slightly cooled for easier shredding.

Making It Ahead of Time for Meal Prep

One of the best things about this Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad is how well it saves. Prepare it a day or two in advance, and let the flavors meld in the fridge. It actually tastes better after sitting, making it a delightful option for meal prep. Store it in an airtight container, and you'll have a quick, delicious meal ready to enjoy throughout the week! For more meal prep ideas, check out meal prepping tips on blogs like Fit Foodie Finds.

Serving suggestions for Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Serving it in a sandwich

Transform your Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad into a delightful sandwich. Just spread a generous layer between two slices of your favorite bread—sourdough or whole grain works beautifully. Add crisp lettuce and a few slices of ripe avocado for an extra layer of texture and flavor. This is an excellent lunch option that provides a punch of protein with a refreshing twist!

Pairing with crackers and fresh veggies

Crackers and fresh veggies take your Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad to the next level as a vibrant appetizer. Serve it alongside crunchy cucumber slices, carrot sticks, and your choice of whole-grain or gluten-free crackers. Not only does this combination create a colorful platter, but it also provides a perfect balance of flavors and textures that guests will love. For more pairing ideas, check out this guide on delicious crunch pairings.

Time breakdown for Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Creating this delightful Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad takes just 20 minutes from start to finish. It's the perfect quick meal for busy professionals or anyone looking to enjoy a flavorful dish without spending all day in the kitchen. Gather your ingredients, and let’s get started!

Total time: 20 minutes

You read that right! From chopping those fresh jalapeños to whisking together the creamy dressing, this entire process is streamlined to fit your hectic schedule. With minimal prep and a fabulous combination of sweet and spicy flavors, you can savor every bite without the stress of lengthy cooking. Perfect for a weekday lunch or an easy dinner option!

Want to make it ahead? This salad keeps well in the fridge for a few days, intensifying the flavors as it sits. Bonus! Check out more quick recipes on Delish or Food Network for more inspiration.

Nutritional Facts for Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Calories per Serving

Each serving of Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad contains approximately 320 calories. This hearty salad manages to be both satisfying and nutritious—a fantastic option for a light lunch or dinner when you're craving something vibrant and fulfilling.

Protein Content

With about 30 grams of protein per serving, this salad is a fantastic way to fuel your day. The shredded chicken not only brings flavor but also provides a robust protein boost to keep you feeling energized and satiated.

Total Fat and Sodium Levels

This Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad has around 18 grams of fat and 600 milligrams of sodium per serving. While it incorporates healthy fats from the almonds and the creamy dressing elements, it’s important to monitor your sodium intake, especially if you're watching your heart health. Opt for reduced-sodium mayonnaise and yogurt to easily adjust these numbers!

Incorporating this fresh and zesty salad into your meal rotation not only delights your taste buds but also offers considerable nutritional benefits. Who knew a salad could be this satisfying? For more information on nutrition, check out resources like the USDA FoodData Central for detailed ingredient breakdowns.

FAQs about Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried?

Absolutely! While dried tart cherries add a unique sweetness and chewiness to the Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad, using fresh cherries can lend a refreshing burst of flavor. Just be sure to pit and slice them before adding them to the salad. Keep in mind that fresh cherries will have a different texture and may make the salad a bit juicier, so adjust the dressing accordingly!

How long does it last in the fridge?

This savory-sweet salad is great for meal prep! You can store the Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. In fact, many find that the flavors improve as it sits, making leftovers an exciting treat for lunch.

Is it possible to make it spicy without jalapenos?

Definitely! If you're looking to spice up your Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad without jalapenos, consider alternatives like sriracha, crushed red pepper flakes, or even hot sauce. Each option will bring its own unique flavor profile, so you can customize it to suit your taste!

For more ideas on how to spice things up, check out some great options on Chili Pepper Madness.

Conclusion on Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad

In summary, this Cherry Jalapeno Chicken Salad is not only a delightful mix of flavors but also a quick and convenient meal option. Perfect for busy professionals, it can be made ahead and enjoyed on the go. Don't hesitate to experiment with your favorite ingredients—enjoy crafting this delicious dish!