When it comes to making chicken salad, few people can rival the expertise of Martha Stewart. As a renowned lifestyle influencer, television personality, and cookbook author, Martha has spent years perfecting her recipes and sharing them with the world. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of chicken salad and explore how Martha Stewart makes this classic dish.
Understanding the Basics of Chicken Salad
Before we dive into Martha’s recipe, it’s essential to understand the basics of chicken salad. At its core, chicken salad is a simple dish made from cooked chicken, mayonnaise, and various seasonings. However, the key to making a great chicken salad lies in the quality of the ingredients and the technique used to prepare them.
Choosing the Right Chicken
When it comes to making chicken salad, the type of chicken you use is crucial. Martha recommends using cooked, boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs. You can either cook the chicken yourself or use pre-cooked chicken from the store. If you’re using pre-cooked chicken, make sure to choose a high-quality brand that is low in sodium and added preservatives.
Cooking the Chicken
If you’re cooking the chicken yourself, Martha recommends poaching or grilling it. Poaching is a great way to cook chicken without adding extra fat, while grilling gives the chicken a nice smoky flavor. To poach the chicken, simply place it in a pot of simmering water and cook until it’s cooked through. To grill the chicken, preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it’s cooked through.
Martha’s Chicken Salad Recipe
Now that we’ve covered the basics of chicken salad, let’s take a look at Martha’s recipe. This recipe serves 4-6 people and can be easily doubled or tripled if you need to feed a larger crowd.
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked chicken breast or thighs | 1 1/2 pounds |
| Mayonnaise | 1/2 cup |
| Dijon mustard | 2 tablespoons |
| Chopped celery | 2 stalks |
| Chopped onion | 1/2 cup |
| Chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or dill) | 1/4 cup |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Preparing the Chicken Salad
To prepare the chicken salad, start by chopping the cooked chicken into small pieces. Place the chicken in a large bowl and set it aside. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth. Add the chopped celery, onion, and fresh herbs to the bowl with the mayonnaise mixture and stir until well combined.
Assembling the Chicken Salad
Once the mayonnaise mixture is ready, add it to the bowl with the chopped chicken. Stir until the chicken is well coated with the mayonnaise mixture. Taste the chicken salad and adjust the seasoning as needed. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Tips and Variations
While Martha’s chicken salad recipe is delicious on its own, there are many ways to customize it to your taste. Here are a few tips and variations to try:
- Add some crunch: Consider adding some chopped nuts or seeds to the chicken salad for added texture. Chopped walnuts or pecans work well, as do sesame seeds or chopped fresh herbs.
- Spice it up: If you like a little heat in your chicken salad, consider adding some diced jalapeños or serrano peppers. You can also add some curry powder or paprika for a smoky flavor.
- Make it lighter: If you’re watching your calories, consider using Greek yogurt or sour cream instead of mayonnaise. You can also add some chopped cucumber or bell peppers to increase the water content of the salad.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken salad is a versatile dish that can be served in many different ways. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Serve on a bed of greens: Consider serving the chicken salad on a bed of mixed greens, such as arugula or spinach. This adds a nice burst of freshness to the dish.
- Use as a sandwich filling: Chicken salad makes a great sandwich filling, especially when paired with some crusty bread or a baguette.
- Serve as a snack: Chicken salad is also a great snack on its own, especially when served with some crackers or crostini.
Conclusion
Making chicken salad is a simple process that requires just a few ingredients and some basic cooking skills. By following Martha Stewart’s recipe and tips, you can create a delicious and healthy chicken salad that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish, a side dish, or a snack, chicken salad is a versatile and crowd-pleasing option that’s sure to please.
What is the key to making a delicious chicken salad?
The key to making a delicious chicken salad is using high-quality ingredients and paying attention to texture and flavor balance. Start with cooked, diced chicken breast or thighs, and add crunchy elements like celery, onions, and nuts. Don’t forget to include creamy ingredients like mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to bind the salad together.
When it comes to flavor, consider adding a variety of herbs and spices to give your chicken salad a unique twist. Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or tarragon add a bright, freshness, while spices like paprika or cayenne pepper add a smoky heat. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find the combination that works best for you.
What type of chicken is best for chicken salad?
The best type of chicken for chicken salad is cooked, diced chicken breast or thighs. Chicken breast is leaner and milder in flavor, making it a great choice for those looking for a lighter salad. Chicken thighs, on the other hand, are darker and more moist, adding a richer flavor to the salad.
When using chicken breast, be sure to cook it until it’s just done, as overcooking can make it dry and tough. Chicken thighs can be cooked a bit longer, as they’re more forgiving. Regardless of which type of chicken you choose, be sure to let it cool completely before adding it to the salad.
How do I prevent my chicken salad from becoming too soggy?
To prevent your chicken salad from becoming too soggy, be sure to drain excess moisture from the chicken and vegetables before adding the dressing. You can do this by wrapping the cooked chicken in a clean kitchen towel and squeezing out as much moisture as possible.
Another trick is to add the dressing just before serving, rather than mixing it in ahead of time. This will help prevent the salad from becoming too soggy or watery. If you do need to make the salad ahead of time, consider adding a little more mayonnaise or yogurt to help absorb excess moisture.
Can I make chicken salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make chicken salad ahead of time, but it’s best to do so with caution. If you’re making the salad more than a few hours in advance, consider preparing the ingredients separately and storing them in the refrigerator until just before serving.
When making the salad ahead of time, be sure to keep it refrigerated at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below. This will help prevent bacterial growth and keep the salad fresh. If you’re transporting the salad, be sure to pack it in a cooler with ice packs to keep it at a safe temperature.
What are some creative ways to serve chicken salad?
There are many creative ways to serve chicken salad, from classic sandwiches to salads and wraps. Consider serving the salad on a bed of greens, topped with sliced avocado or a fried egg. You could also use the salad as a filling for wraps or sandwiches, or serve it as a topping for a baked potato or salad.
For a more elegant presentation, consider serving the salad in a hollowed-out bell pepper or avocado shell. You could also use a cookie scoop to portion out the salad into bite-sized balls, perfect for a party or special occasion.
Can I customize the recipe to suit my dietary needs?
Yes, you can customize the recipe to suit your dietary needs. If you’re looking for a lower-calorie option, consider using Greek yogurt or cottage cheese instead of mayonnaise. You could also add more vegetables, such as diced bell peppers or carrots, to increase the nutrient density of the salad.
If you’re gluten-free, be sure to choose a gluten-free mayonnaise or yogurt. If you’re vegan, consider using a plant-based protein source like tofu or tempeh, and a vegan mayonnaise or yogurt alternative.
How do I store leftover chicken salad?
To store leftover chicken salad, be sure to refrigerate it at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below within two hours of serving. Transfer the salad to a covered container, such as a glass or plastic container with a tight-fitting lid.
When storing leftover chicken salad, be sure to keep it away from strong-smelling foods, as the salad can absorb odors easily. If you don’t plan to use the salad within a day or two, consider freezing it. Simply transfer the salad to an airtight container or freezer bag, label it, and store it in the freezer for up to three months.