Waldorf Chicken Salad

Welcome to SousVideRecipe! I’m Jasmine, a home cook who fell in love with sous vide the moment I realized it could turn everyday meals into restaurant-quality dishes with perfect consistency. My goal is to make sous vide cooking approachable and fun for real home kitchens — no complicated steps, just flavorful, reliable recipes anyone can master. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, I’m here to inspire you to enjoy cooking and create unforgettable meals one perfectly cooked bite at a time.

Growing up, I remember my family gathering around the table for special occasions. One dish that always brought smiles was a classic Waldorf salad, brimming with flavors and textures that danced on the palate. Fast forward to today, and I decided to merge that timeless delight with succulent chicken breast, creating a refreshing Waldorf Chicken Salad.

This dish showcases the crispness of apples and celery, complemented by the creaminess of yogurt and mayo. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch, making it perfect for lunches, picnics, or even a light dinner. Waldorf Chicken Salad brings together simple ingredients in a way that feels both nostalgic and innovative.

With this recipe, you’ll discover that preparing a delicious Waldorf Chicken Salad at home is easier than you think. The combination of shredded chicken, fresh fruits, and crunchy nuts offers a delightful melody of flavors. Let’s dive into how to prepare this favorite dish and make it a staple in your kitchen!

Waldorf Chicken Salad

Fundamentals

When preparing Waldorf Chicken Salad, understanding the essential components of the dish is crucial. Shredded or chopped chicken forms the base, delivering protein and keeping your salad satisfying. Adding a large apple not only introduces natural sweetness but also balances the savory notes from the chicken.

Incorporating eight chopped celery stalks adds a delightful crunch that enhances the overall texture. The freshness of the ingredients truly makes this salad shine. The key to an excellent Waldorf Chicken Salad lies in the balance of flavors, from sweet apple to the peppery bite of red onion.

Don’t forget the fresh parsley; it brings a burst of color and freshness that livens the whole dish. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating a harmonious blend that excites the taste buds.

Preparation/setup

Before diving into the recipe, gather your ingredients and tools. You’ll need a large mixing bowl to combine all the ingredients and a whisk for the dressing. Preheat your workspace by preparing the chicken—whether using leftover roasted chicken or poaching it for a fresher option.

To make the chopping process easier, consider using a sharp knife or a food processor for the celery and apple. Ensure you have measuring spoons handy because precision matters. Prepare your workspace by clearing a surface for assembly.

By setting up everything before you begin, you streamline the cooking process, making it enjoyable and efficient. When everything is within reach, you’ll maintain your momentum, helping you create this delicious salad in no time.

Ingredients

To make the perfect Waldorf Chicken Salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 3 cups shredded or chopped chicken breast (454g)
• 1 large apple, diced (210g)
• 8 celery stalks, chopped (208g)
• 1/4 red onion, diced small (50g)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (10g)
• 1/4 cup toasted pecans, chopped (30g)
• 3 tablespoons nonfat Greek yogurt or dairy-free sour cream/yogurt (45g)
• 3 tablespoons lite mayo (45g)
• 2 tablespoons clear balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon fresh squeezed lemon (30g)
• 1/2 teaspoon poppy seeds (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, diced apple, chopped celery, red onion, parsley, and toasted pecans.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lite mayo, balsamic or apple cider vinegar, fresh lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture.
4. Toss well until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Serve immediately or store in the fridge for later use.

Waldorf Chicken Salad: Mastering the Art

Technique

Creating a Waldorf Chicken Salad requires a few techniques that can enhance your overall result. Start with the chicken; whether shredded or chopped, ensure it is tender and moist. If using leftover chicken, warm it slightly for a comforting touch.

Chopping the apple right before serving preserves its crunch and prevents browning. You can toss the diced apple with lemon juice to maintain its bright color. Using a sharp knife helps you achieve uniform cuts, making the salad visually appealing.

When whisking your dressing, take your time to ensure it incorporates smoothly. A well-emulsified dressing binds the flavors more effectively. Lastly, adjusting the seasoning at the end allows you to tailor the salad to your taste.

Tips/tricks

A few simple tips can elevate your Waldorf Chicken Salad. Toasting the pecans before adding them intensifies their flavor. This step enhances the nuttiness, creating an even more robust taste experience.

Don’t skip the fresh herbs; they add a layer of freshness that elevates the dish. If you want an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing.

For a twist, use different nuts like walnuts or almonds for variation. This flexibility allows you to personalize your salad. Remember to taste as you go, adjusting seasoning or ingredients to cater to your preferences.

Waldorf Chicken Salad: Refining the Results

Perfecting results

Achieving a perfect Waldorf Chicken Salad involves careful attention to ingredients and ratios. Ensure the chicken remains juicy by not overcooking it. When preparing the salad, opt for crisp, fresh vegetables and check for optimal ripeness in your apple.

Aim for a balance between creaminess and tanginess with the dressing. Adjust the yogurt and mayo ratio according to your consistency preference. If you desire a thinner dressing, adding a splash of extra vinegar can help.

Seasoning is paramount. Taste the salad before serving and adjust accordingly. A little bit of salt can enhance flavor immensely, while pepper provides a gentle spice.

Troubleshooting/variations

In case you encounter any hiccups, troubleshooting is key. If your salad turns out too dry, consider adding more dressing or a splash of vinegar for moisture. On the other hand, avoid using too much dressing, as it could lead to an overwhelming taste.

For variations, explore using chicken thighs instead of chicken breast for richer flavor. Swap out the apple for pear for a delightful twist or add some grapes for a burst of sweetness.

If you prefer a more hearty meal, serve the Waldorf Chicken Salad on whole grain bread or in a wrap, turning it into a sandwich. Adjust the ingredient ratios to suit your taste, ensuring an enjoyable dining experience.

Waldorf Chicken Salad: Serving and Storing

Serving/presentation

Presenting your Waldorf Chicken Salad can be as fun as preparing it. Use a suitable bowl to enhance its visual appeal. Consider layering the salad for a beautiful presentation, starting with greens at the base and mounding the Waldorf Chicken Salad on top.

For extra flair, garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of poppy seeds if you chose to include them. Adding colorful elements not only makes the dish more inviting but also emphasizes its freshness.

Serving chilled is optimal; letting the salad sit in the fridge for a while allows the flavors to marry, creating a more harmonious dish.

Pairings/storage

Pair your Waldorf Chicken Salad with fresh greens or whole grain crackers for a delightful meal. Complement it with a light soup or a fruit salad for a well-rounded dining experience.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This salad maintains its quality for a couple of days, although the texture may change slightly. If you plan to keep it longer, consider storing the dressing separately and combining it right before serving to maintain the crunchiness of the ingredients.

With a few simple touches, Waldorf Chicken Salad can become a family favorite, whether for a quick lunch or a picnic treat.

Waldorf Chicken Salad combines nostalgia with modern flavors, offering a deliciously unique experience. Embrace the joy of preparing this dish, and let it inspire many healthy meals to come! Enjoy crafting this recipe, and watch it become a staple in your kitchen.

Print