Get ready to transform your boring lunch routine with the most addictive chicken salad recipe that'll make your taste buds dance! Inspired by the legendary Chicken Salad Chick's Jalapeno Holly, this recipe brings the perfect balance of creamy, zesty, and spicy flavors that will have you craving more with every single bite. Whether you're looking for a quick meal prep option or a crowd-pleasing party dish, this jalapeno-packed chicken salad is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup diced jalapenos
- 1/4 cup diced celery
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by ensuring your chicken is fully cooked and cooled. If using freshly cooked chicken, allow it to reach room temperature and shred it using two forks or your hands into fine, consistent pieces.
- Dice the jalapenos finely, removing seeds for less heat if desired. Wear disposable gloves to protect your hands from jalapeno oils.
- Finely chop the celery and green onions into small, uniform pieces to ensure even distribution throughout the chicken salad.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mayonnaise, diced jalapenos, chopped celery, and green onions.
- Gently mix all ingredients together, ensuring the mayonnaise coats the chicken and vegetables evenly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing thoroughly to distribute the seasonings.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together, though serving immediately is also acceptable.
- Serve chilled on croissants, bread, lettuce wraps, or as a standalone salad.
Tips
- Chicken Selection: For the best texture, use freshly cooked, tender chicken breast or rotisserie chicken. Shred the meat finely for a more uniform consistency.
- Jalapeno Heat Control: Want less heat? Remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos. For extra spice lovers, keep the seeds intact or add a dash of hot sauce.
- Chill Factor: While you can serve this salad immediately, letting it rest in the refrigerator for 30-60 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Prep Ahead: This chicken salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve on croissants, as a lettuce wrap, atop a bed of greens, or with crackers for a versatile and delicious meal.
- Glove Up: When handling jalapenos, always wear disposable gloves to protect your hands from the spicy oils.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 70mg
