Homemade Classic Carol Chicken Salad Chick Recipe: A Tasty Treat

Memories of comfort and joy burst through every bite of this classic carol chicken salad.

Friends often request this crowd-pleasing recipe at potlucks and summer gatherings.

Creamy textures blend perfectly with crisp celery and tender chicken pieces.

Southern charm shines through each spoonful of this delightful mix.

Smooth mayonnaise creates a luxurious backdrop for simple, fresh ingredients.

Generations have cherished this recipe’s delicious simplicity and heartwarming appeal.

Each forkful promises a delectable journey that connects you to cherished culinary traditions.

Let’s uncover the magic behind this beloved classic carol chicken salad.

What Goes In Classic Carol Chicken Salad

• Chicken Tenders: Tender pieces of white meat that form the base of the chicken salad.
• Chicken Stock: Flavorful liquid used to cook and tenderize the chicken.

• Mayonnaise: Creamy base that provides richness and helps bind the chicken salad together.
• Ranch Dressing Mix: Adds zesty and tangy flavor to the chicken salad.

• Celery, Salt, Black Pepper: Fresh vegetables and seasonings that enhance the overall flavor and provide a subtle crunch to the chicken salad.

Simple Steps For Classic Carol Salad Bliss

Step 1: Boil Chicken Stock

Fill a large pot with chicken stock and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat.

Step 2: Cook Chicken Tenders

Gently lower chicken tenders into the boiling stock and cook until they are completely tender and easily pierced with a fork, typically taking 15-20 minutes.

Step 3: Shred Chicken

Remove chicken from the stock and let it cool completely on a cutting board.

Once cooled, use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

Step 4: Prepare Creamy Mixture

• Mayonnaise
• Minced celery
• Ranch dressing mix
• Salt
• Black pepper

Whisk these ingredients together until they form a smooth, creamy consistency.

Step 5: Blend Chicken

Add the shredded chicken to the creamy mixture and fold gently until the chicken is evenly coated with the dressing.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Transfer the chicken salad to a sealed container and refrigerate for a minimum of 1 hour to allow flavors to meld together.

Serve chilled on crackers, bread, or lettuce leaves.

Handy Hints For Chicken Salad Like Carol’s

• Simmer chicken in stock at a gentle, low boil to keep meat moist and prevent toughening.
• Wait until chicken cools completely to easily pull apart with two forks for uniform, tender pieces.
• Adjust mayonnaise quantity to create desired consistency, adding gradually for smooth texture.
• Let chicken salad rest in refrigerator for several hours to allow seasonings to meld and intensify taste.
• Replace Ranch dressing mix with gluten-free alternative or homemade seasoning blend for sensitive diets.

Chicken Salad Switch Ups With Carol’s Style

• Greek-Inspired Chicken Salad: Replace Ranch dressing mix with dried oregano, add crumbled feta cheese, diced cucumber, and kalamata olives for a Mediterranean flavor profile.
• Lighter Protein Version: Swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lower-calorie option, incorporate fresh dill, and use grilled chicken breast instead of boiled chicken tenders.
• Spicy Southwest Chicken Salad: Mix in diced jalapeños, cumin, chili powder, and chopped cilantro. Replace mayonnaise with avocado for a creamy, zesty alternative.
• Allergen-Friendly Option: Use vegan mayonnaise, substitute chicken with shredded jackfruit for a plant-based version. Add nutritional yeast for extra flavor and protein.

Serving Chicken Salad Chick Style At Parties

• Picnic Perfect Plate: Serve this classic chicken salad on a bed of crisp lettuce leaves for a refreshing and light lunch option.
• Sandwich Sensation: Spread the chicken salad between two slices of toasted wheat bread or croissants for a delicious and satisfying sandwich.
• Cracker Companion: Pair the chicken salad with crispy crackers or buttery ritz crackers as an easy appetizer or quick snack that's sure to please crowds.
• Veggie Dip Delight: Use the chicken salad as a protein-packed dip alongside fresh vegetable sticks like cucumber, carrots, and celery for a nutritious and tasty treat.

Store Classic Chicken Salad For Easy Lunches

• Transfer chicken salad to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Always use clean utensils when scooping to prevent bacterial contamination.
• Pack the chicken salad in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before consuming.
• Gently stir the chicken salad to redistribute moisture after refrigeration. Let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to take off the chill before serving.
• For best texture and flavor, consume within 2-3 days of preparation. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating.

FAQs

• What ingredients make the Classic Carol Chicken Salad unique?

The Ranch dressing mix and minced celery give this chicken salad a tangy, crisp flavor that sets it apart from traditional recipes.

• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, you can make this chicken salad ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or snacks.

• Can I use different cuts of chicken for this recipe?

While the recipe calls for chicken tenders, you can easily substitute with boneless, skinless chicken breasts or rotisserie chicken for similar results.

• How can I make this recipe healthier?

Replace regular mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or light mayonnaise to reduce calories and add more protein to the chicken salad.

Classic Carol Chicken Salad Chick’s Signature Touch

• Customize Your Culinary Creation: The recipe offers flexibility to adjust seasonings or add extra ingredients like chopped nuts or dried cranberries, allowing personal taste preferences to shine through.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy this chicken salad as a sandwich filling, on top of crisp lettuce, with crackers, or stuffed in a wrap, making it an adaptable dish for lunch, picnics, or casual gatherings.
• Meal Prep Champion: Prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator, this chicken salad maintains great flavor and texture, becoming an excellent option for make-ahead meals and convenient eating throughout the week.

Chicken Salad Chick Classic Carol Recipe

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4.8 from 26 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Classic carol chicken salad brings Southern comfort to your plate with creamy, tangy perfection. Delightful blend of shredded chicken, mayo, and subtle seasonings creates a nostalgic taste that keeps you coming back for more.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Proteins:

• 1/2 pound (226 grams) chicken tenders

Seasonings and Spices:

• 2 teaspoons dry ranch salad dressing mix
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

Liquid and Binding Ingredients:

• 32 ounces (946 milliliters) low sodium chicken stock
• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons finely minced celery

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Instructions

1. Heat chicken stock in a pot until it reaches a rolling boil.
2. Gently submerge chicken tenders and simmer for 15-20 minutes, ensuring chicken is fully cooked through.
3. Transfer chicken from stock and allow to cool completely on a cutting board.
4. Shred cooled chicken using two forks, pulling meat apart into fine, uniform pieces.
5. Prepare dressing mixture by whisking mayonnaise, Ranch seasoning, finely diced celery, salt, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl.
6. Fold shredded chicken into dressing, mixing thoroughly to ensure even coating and distribution of ingredients.
7. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for minimum 60 minutes to allow flavors to meld and salad to chill.
8. Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir to redistribute the dressing and ensure consistent texture.

Notes

• Ensure chicken is fully cooked by checking internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.
• Shred chicken while still slightly warm for easier and more consistent texture.
• Use Greek yogurt as a lighter mayonnaise alternative for a healthier version of the salad.
• Enhance flavor by adding chopped fresh herbs like dill or chives for extra zest and color.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Boiling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 380 mg
• Fat: 45 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 37 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 2 g
• Fiber: 0.5 g
• Protein: 35 g
• Cholesterol: 110 mg