Discover the secret to a deliciously easy meal with our Bistro Chicken Salad to Freeze! Perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests, this French-inspired dish combines tender shredded chicken with a creamy, zesty dressing that will tantalize your taste buds. With just 15 minutes of prep time and a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch that not only serves 6 but can also be frozen for later enjoyment. Say goodbye to last-minute dinner dilemmas and hello to a convenient, mouthwatering solution that will keep you coming back for more. Ready to impress your family and friends? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup celery, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Ensure chicken is fully cooked and cooled to room temperature. If using raw chicken, poach or roast chicken breasts until internal temperature reaches 165°F, then shred using two forks.
- Finely chop celery into uniform small dice, approximately 1/8-inch pieces to ensure even distribution throughout the salad.
- Slice green onions thinly, using both white and green parts for added flavor and color contrast.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, chopped celery, and sliced green onions.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and fresh lemon juice until smooth and well incorporated.
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and gently fold until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, adjusting to taste.
- For freezing, transfer salad to freezer-safe containers, leaving about 1/2 inch of space at the top to allow for expansion.
- Cover tightly with lid or plastic wrap, ensuring minimal air exposure to prevent freezer burn.
- Label container with date and contents, and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- When ready to serve, thaw in refrigerator overnight and stir well before serving. Best consumed within 2-3 days after thawing.
Tips
- Cook the Chicken Ahead: For maximum convenience, consider cooking and shredding your chicken in advance. This way, when you're ready to make the salad, all you have to do is mix the ingredients!
- Chill Before Serving: For the best flavor, allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Customize Your Crunch: Feel free to add other crunchy vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers for extra texture and flavor!
- Make It Your Own: Experiment with different herbs or spices in the dressing, such as dill or garlic powder, to customize the taste to your liking.
- Freezing Tips: When freezing, use airtight containers to prevent freezer burn. If you're short on space, consider using freezer bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
- Thawing: Always thaw your salad in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture and flavor. Avoid quick-thaw methods like microwaving, as they can make the ingredients mushy.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve your Bistro Chicken Salad on a bed of greens, in a sandwich, or as a filling for wraps for a delightful meal any time of day!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 70mg
