Imagine a chicken salad so irresistibly creamy, crunchy, and bursting with flavor that it'll have your family and friends begging for the recipe. This Copycat Willow Tree Chicken Salad isn't just another boring lunch option - it's a culinary adventure that transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering masterpiece. Whether you're looking for a quick meal prep solution or a crowd-pleasing party dish, this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt
- 1/2 cup grapes, halved
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup celery, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and place it in a large mixing bowl.
- Next, halve the grapes and add them to the bowl with the shredded chicken.
- Dice the celery into small pieces and add it to the mixture.
- In a separate small bowl, combine the mayonnaise and plain yogurt. Mix them together until smooth and well blended.
- Pour the mayonnaise and yogurt mixture over the chicken, grapes, and celery in the large bowl.
- Sprinkle in the sliced almonds for added crunch and flavor.
- Gently fold all the ingredients together using a spatula or large spoon. Be careful not to crush the grapes or break up the chicken too much.
- Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a small pinch of each, then mix and taste. Adjust as necessary.
- Once everything is well combined and seasoned, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- After chilling, give the salad a final stir and serve it on a bed of lettuce, in a sandwich, or with crackers. Enjoy your homemade Copycat Willow Tree Chicken Salad!
Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients for better blending and more harmonious flavors.
- For the most tender chicken, consider using rotisserie chicken or gently poached chicken breasts.
- Allow the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors fully develop.
- For extra crunch, toast the almonds lightly before adding them to the salad.
- If you prefer a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for some of the mayonnaise.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning gradually - you can add more salt and pepper, but you can't take them away!
- This salad keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, making it perfect for meal prep.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 85mg
