Ready in: 45 minutes · Serves: 6 · Technique: Mixing · Storage: Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Quick Answer
This Cashew Chicken Salad combines tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and sweet grapes, all tossed in a creamy dressing, making it the perfect dish for holiday gatherings.
When fall rolls around in New York City, I find myself surrounded by crisp air and vibrant fall colors, setting the perfect backdrop for gatherings and celebrations. And with Thanksgiving and Christmas fast approaching, I'm always on the lookout for dishes that can shine at any holiday table. This Cashew Chicken Salad is one such dish-packed with flavor and texture, it's a delightful blend that warms the heart and pleases the palate.
A Holiday Favorite
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Bright flavors and textures come together, making each bite a delight.
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for last-minute gatherings.
- Versatile dish that can be served on its own or as a side salad.
- Great for meal prep, keeps well in the fridge for several days.
- The perfect blend of savory and sweet, ideal for holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients to create your Cashew Chicken Salad:
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- ½ cup green onions, sliced
- 1 cup cashews, roughly chopped
- 1 cup red grapes, halved
Dressing Ingredients
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Cashew Chicken Salad (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps to whip up your delicious Cashew Chicken Salad:
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
If you haven't done so already, shred or cube your cooked chicken. I often use leftovers from roast chicken for a juicy and flavorful base.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken, chopped celery, sliced green onions, chopped cashews, and halved grapes. As I toss the ingredients, I appreciate the vibrant colors-crunchy greens, glistening grapes, and nutty cashews.
Step 3: Whisk the Dressing
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy. The nutty aroma of the mustard and the tangy lemon elevate the overall flavor of the salad.
Step 4: Combine
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and gently fold everything together until evenly coated. Be cautious not to mash the grapes; their burst of sweetness is essential.
Step 5: Chill
Ideally, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. As I wait, I can't help but anticipate that first bite-crispy, creamy, crunchy, and absolutely delicious.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing: When combining the salad, be gentle. Overmixing can cause the grapes to break and the chicken to become mushy.
- Skipping Chilling Time: Don't rush this step! Chilling allows the flavors to develop; skipping it results in a less vibrant taste.
- Neglecting Salt and Pepper: Always season your salad! A pinch of salt can make all the difference in elevating the flavors.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- For a healthier twist, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise in the dressing. It adds creaminess while cutting back on calories.
- If you're preparing this salad for a larger gathering, double the recipe. It's always a crowd-pleaser, especially during Thanksgiving and Christmas.
- Serve this salad on a bed of mixed greens to add volume and freshness, enhancing its visual appeal.
Variations
- Substitute roasted turkey for chicken for a festive twist.
- Use dried cranberries instead of grapes for a different sweetness.
- Add diced apples for an extra crunch and flavor contrast.
- Incorporate different nuts like almonds or pecans for variety.
How to Serve
- Serve the salad chilled as a light lunch or dinner option.
- Pair it with crusty bread or crackers for a satisfying meal.
- Use it as a filling for wraps or sandwiches.
- Present it in a large bowl for family-style sharing during gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the salad up to a day in advance, but store the dressing separately.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Reheating: This salad is best served cold, so reheating is not necessary.
- Freezing: Freezing is not recommended due to the ingredients' texture changes upon thawing.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Preparing this Cashew Chicken Salad reminded me how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. The blend of textures and flavors not only makes it a mouthwatering dish but also a perfect recipe for entertaining during the holidays.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 cup
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~320 calories · 20g protein · 15g carbs · 22g fat
Recipe by:
Delicious Cashew Chicken Salad for Gatherings
Ingredients
Method
- Shred or cube the cooked chicken if not done already.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken, celery, green onions, cashews, and grapes.
- In a smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and gently fold together.
- Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use leftover chicken for this salad?
Absolutely! Using leftover roasted chicken is a great way to add flavor to the salad.
2. How long can I store the Cashew Chicken Salad?
You can keep the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
3. Is it possible to make this recipe healthier?
Yes! You can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise in the dressing for a healthier option.
4. How do I avoid the grapes getting mushy in the salad?
Be gentle when mixing the salad and avoid overmixing to keep the grapes intact.
5. Can I double the recipe for larger gatherings?
Definitely! This salad is always a crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for larger gatherings.
