Why Make This Recipe
Honey Mustard Chicken Salad is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that combines the savory taste of chicken with the sweet and tangy flavors of honey mustard. It is a wonderful choice for lunch or dinner and can be served in various ways. This recipe is not only tasty but also packed with protein and healthy ingredients. Perfect for meal prep, you can enjoy it throughout the week.
How to Make Honey Mustard Chicken Salad
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup avocado oil mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons pure honey
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast or thighs, cubed or shredded
- 1 stalk celery, diced (about 1/3 cup)
- 1/3 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped cashews
Directions
- To a small bowl, add the mayonnaise, mustard, honey, dried thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk to combine and set aside.
- In a medium bowl, combine the cooked chicken, celery, carrots, red onion, and cashews.
- Pour the honey mustard dressing over the chicken mixture and toss to combine.
- Serve with crackers, in a wrap, as a sandwich, or over lettuce greens. If desired, garnish with additional toasted cashews and/or a dash of black pepper.
How to Serve Honey Mustard Chicken Salad
You can serve Honey Mustard Chicken Salad in multiple ways. It tastes great on its own or can be enjoyed in a sandwich or wrap. For a lighter option, serve it over a bed of fresh greens. Pair it with crackers for a nice crunch or enjoy it as part of a picnic spread.
How to Store Honey Mustard Chicken Salad
To store Honey Mustard Chicken Salad, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days. If you plan to keep it longer, consider storing the dressing separately to maintain the freshness and texture of the ingredients.
Tips to Make Honey Mustard Chicken Salad
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy option.
- Add more vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch.
- For a spicy kick, mix in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- If you prefer, substitute the cashews with walnuts or almonds.
Variation
You can easily make this recipe your own by experimenting with different ingredients. For a fruitier touch, add some diced apples or grapes. If you’re looking for a lower-calorie option, consider Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a creamy texture.
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a day in advance. Just keep the dressing separate until you are ready to serve to maintain freshness.
2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are gluten-free. Just ensure that any crackers or wraps you use are also gluten-free.
3. Can I freeze Honey Mustard Chicken Salad?
It is not recommended to freeze this salad, as the texture of the ingredients can change once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh and stored in the refrigerator.
Honey Mustard Chicken Salad
Ingredients
Method
- In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, dried thyme, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Set aside.
- In a medium bowl, combine the cooked chicken, celery, carrots, red onion, and cashews.
- Pour the honey mustard dressing over the chicken mixture and toss to combine.
- Serve with crackers, in a wrap, as a sandwich, or over lettuce greens. Garnish with additional toasted cashews and/or a dash of black pepper if desired.