Have you ever tasted a chicken salad so perfectly balanced that it becomes your go-to comfort meal? Straub’s Chicken Salad Recipe is exactly that—a creamy, flavorful, and protein-rich delight that has captivated food lovers for years. If you’ve been craving this legendary dish, you’re in the right place! In this post, we’ll break down the best way to make Straub’s Chicken Salad from scratch, providing easy-to-follow instructions, nutritional insights, and storage tips to ensure your salad stays fresh. Let’s get started!
Ingredients List For straub’s chicken salad recipe
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious Straub’s Chicken Salad Recipe:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast (rotisserie or poached)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a healthier option)
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, for balance)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup toasted almonds or walnuts (optional, for crunch)
- 1/4 cup grapes or dried cranberries (optional, for sweetness)
Possible Substitutions:
- Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
- Swap sour cream with low-fat cream cheese for added richness.
- Use honey instead of sugar for a natural sweetener.
- Add avocado for a creamy, nutrient-packed alternative.
Timing
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes (if cooking chicken from scratch)
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook and Prepare the Chicken
If using raw chicken, poach it in water with a pinch of salt for about 10 minutes, or until fully cooked. Let it cool, then shred it using two forks or a stand mixer for ease.
Step 2: Chop and Mix Ingredients
Finely chop the celery and red onion, ensuring they’re evenly diced for a consistent texture. In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3: Combine and Mix
Add the shredded chicken to the dressing and mix thoroughly until every piece is coated. If using nuts or grapes, fold them in gently.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
For the best flavor, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy with crackers, in a sandwich, or over a bed of greens!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~280 kcal
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fats: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
- Low-Calorie Version: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo and opt for lean chicken breast.
- Keto-Friendly: Skip the grapes and sugar to keep the carb count low.
- Dairy-Free: Replace sour cream with coconut yogurt.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Sandwich: Serve in a croissant or whole-grain bread.
- Wrap Style: Use a tortilla with fresh greens.
- Keto Bowl: Serve over a bed of spinach with sliced avocados.
- Party Appetizer: Serve with crackers or cucumber slices.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Over-mixing: This can make the chicken mushy.
- Skipping the Chill Time: Chilling enhances flavor and texture.
- Not Draining Ingredients Properly: Excess moisture from onions or celery can make the salad watery.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as mayonnaise-based salads don’t freeze well.
- Meal Prep Tip: Store dressing separately and mix fresh for extended freshness.
Conclusion
Straub’s Chicken Salad is a timeless favorite that’s both delicious and versatile. Whether you’re making a quick lunch, meal-prepping for the week, or serving guests, this recipe is sure to impress! Give it a try and share your results in the comments below. Don’t forget to subscribe for more amazing recipes!
FAQs
1. Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, but fresh or rotisserie chicken will provide better texture and flavor.
2. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the sour cream with dairy-free yogurt or cashew-based sour cream.
3. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If it becomes too dry, add a spoonful of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt before serving.
4. Can I add eggs to this chicken salad?
Absolutely! Diced hard-boiled eggs can add an extra creamy texture and protein boost.
5. What are some good seasoning alternatives?
If you want to switch up the flavors, try adding paprika, cayenne pepper, curry powder, or fresh herbs like dill and parsley.
6. How can I make my chicken salad more flavorful?
Ensure you season your chicken before cooking, use fresh lemon juice, and let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
7. Can I make this in a food processor?
Yes, but be careful not to over-process it! Pulse the chicken in short bursts to achieve a shredded texture without turning it into a paste.
6. What’s the best way to serve Straub’s Chicken Salad at a party?
Serve it on mini croissants, with crackers, in lettuce cups, or on cucumber slices for a low-carb option.
7. Can I add other ingredients?
Absolutely! Some great additions include chopped apples, dried cranberries, grapes, pecans, or even a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
8. Is Straub’s Chicken Salad gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you ensure all ingredients (especially mayonnaise and seasoning blends) are gluten-free.
Enjoy making this classic Straub’s Chicken Salad Recipe, and don’t forget to share your results in the comments below! 🥗😊