Deli-Style Chicken Salad is a classic and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways. Whether as a sandwich filling, a topping for a green salad, or a simple snack on its own, this chicken salad is a crowd-pleaser. The combination of tender chicken, crunchy celery, and creamy mayonnaise, seasoned perfectly with sea salt, black pepper, and granulated onion, creates a delicious and satisfying dish.
My first encounter with Deli-Style Chicken Salad was at a family picnic. My grandmother brought a large bowl of her famous chicken salad, and it was an instant hit. The flavors were perfectly balanced, and the chicken was so tender that it practically melted in my mouth. Since then, I’ve been perfecting my version of this classic recipe, and it has become a staple in my kitchen. It’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy weekdays or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
500 grams of boneless, diced chicken breast
300 grams of boneless, diced chicken thigh
2 tablespoons of olive oil
½ teaspoon of sea salt
¼ teaspoon of black pepper
½ teaspoon of granulated onion
⅔ cup of mayonnaise
3 stalks of celery, diced
Additional sea salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Dice the Chicken:
Begin by dicing 500 grams of boneless chicken breast and 300 grams of boneless chicken thigh into bite-sized pieces. Make sure the pieces are uniform in size for even cooking.
Season the Chicken:
Place the diced chicken in a bowl. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil, ½ teaspoon of sea salt, ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, and ½ teaspoon of granulated onion. Toss the chicken to ensure it is evenly coated with the oil and seasonings.
Step 2: Bake the Chicken
Prepare the Baking Dish:
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Place the seasoned chicken in a baking dish. Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil to keep the chicken moist while it bakes.
Bake the Chicken:
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit (75 degrees Celsius) in the thickest part. This ensures the chicken is cooked through and safe to eat.
Step 3: Cool and Dice the Chicken
Cool the Chicken:
Remove the chicken from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 10 minutes. This cooling step helps to lock in the juices and makes the chicken easier to handle.
Chill the Chicken:
Once the chicken has cooled slightly, place it in the refrigerator for at least one hour. Chilling the chicken helps to firm it up and makes it easier to dice.
Dice the Chicken:
After the chicken has chilled, dice the breasts and thighs into pieces that are approximately 1/4 inch long and 1/2 inch wide. This size is ideal for a chunky and satisfying chicken salad.
Step 4: Assemble the Chicken Salad
Combine Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken, 3 stalks of diced celery, and ⅔ cup of mayonnaise.
Mix Well:
Stir the mixture until all the ingredients are well combined. Ensure that the mayonnaise evenly coats the chicken and celery.
Chill the Chicken Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 to 2 hours, or preferably overnight. Allowing the chicken salad to chill helps the flavors to meld together, resulting in a more delicious dish.
Step 5: Final Adjustments and Serving
Adjust Seasoning:
Before serving, taste the chicken salad and adjust the seasoning with additional sea salt and black pepper if necessary.
Serve:
Serve the Deli-Style Chicken Salad chilled. It can be enjoyed in a variety of ways:
Sandwich: Spread it between slices of your favorite bread.
Salad: Serve it on a bed of fresh greens.
Wrap: Roll it up in a tortilla with some additional veggies.
Snack: Enjoy it with crackers or straight from the bowl.
Variations and Substitutions
Greek Yogurt: Substitute some or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a tangy, lower-fat option.
Herbs: Add fresh herbs such as parsley, dill, or chives for an extra layer of flavor.
Fruits: Incorporate fruits like grapes, apples, or cranberries for a sweet twist.
Nuts: Add some crunch with chopped nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans.
Spicy Kick: Mix in a bit of hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños for a spicy version.
Conclusion
Deli-Style Chicken Salad is an appealing and enjoyable dish that offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The tender chicken, crunchy celery, and creamy mayonnaise come together to create a delicious and satisfying meal. The ease of preparation makes it a great choice for any occasion, from quick lunches to family gatherings.
The flexibility of this recipe allows you to customize it to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Whether you stick to the classic version or try one of the suggested variations, this chicken salad is sure to become a favorite in your household.
