Newk’s Chicken Salad Recipe

Every scoop of my version of Newk’s Chicken Salad recipe is a testament to my love for vibrant, wholesome meals.

In my kitchen, I’ve recreated this classic focusing on fresh, nutritious ingredients that energize and satisfy.

I cherish how each bite offers a delightful crunch, a creamy embrace, and sweetness.

This salad is more than just a meal; it balances proteins, healthy fats, and crisp vegetables, providing nourishment and joy in equal measure.

I’m excited to share the virtues of this salad with you — a testament to how eating well can be both simple and utterly delicious.

I will walk you through making this salad from start to finish. So don’t worry, start now.

How To Make Newk’s Chicken Salad Recipe?

Recipe Overview

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes (if starting with raw chicken)
• Yield: 6 servings
• Calories: Approximately 510 kcal per serving

Equipment Needed

• Large Mixing Bowl
• Cutting Board
• Chef’s Knife
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Skillet or Saucepan
• Plastic Wrap or Lid

Ingredients

• 1 ½ lbs of boneless chicken breast, cooked and shredded into bite-sized pieces
• ½ cup of finely diced celery
• 1 cup of red seedless grapes, halved
• ½ cup of red onion, finely chopped
• ¾ cup of chopped pecans, toasted for added depth
• 2 cups of mayonnaise for a creamy base
• 3 teaspoons of fresh lemon juice for a bit of tang
• 1 ½ teaspoons of yellow mustard or honey mustard for a subtle zing
• 2 teaspoons of fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• ½ teaspoon of ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon of sugar
• ½ teaspoon of salt
• 1 teaspoon of seasoned salt or your favorite spice blend

Instructions

1. Begin by cooking the chicken. You can boil, steam, or sauté the chicken breasts with a pinch of salt until they’re fully cooked yet tender. Let them cool, and then shred them into small strips.

2. Add the shredded chicken, celery, red onion, and toasted pecans in a large mixing bowl.

3. In a separate bowl, create the dressing by combining mayonnaise, lemon juice, mustard, parsley, onion powder, black pepper, sugar, salt, and seasoned salt. Mix well until smooth.

4. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and fold gently until everything is well-coated.

5. Add the halved grapes last to keep them intact and fold them in carefully.

6. Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour. This step is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

7. Serve chilled. This salad is versatile; enjoy it over a bed of greens, between slices of artisan bread, or with a side of your favorite soup.

Perfect Cooking Tips

For the perfect Newk’s Chicken Salad Recipe, keep these tips in mind:

• Chicken Preparation: Cook your chicken just right – tender and moist. You can poach, roast, or even use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• Dressing Balance: Whisk your dressing until creamy and taste as you go. The right balance of tangy and sweet will make your salad pop.
• Freshness Counts: Use fresh ingredients for the crunchiest celery, the juiciest grapes, and the most flavorful onions.
• Toast Your Nuts: Lightly toast the pecans to deepen their nutty flavor, adding a rich contrast to the salad.
• Chill Time: Let the salad chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. This melds the flavors beautifully.
• Serve Fresh: Enjoy the salad within a day or two to savor the best texture and freshness of the ingredients.

Tips For Serving Suggestions

Serve the Newk’s Chicken Salad on a croissant for a delightful sandwich, atop a bed of mixed greens for a light entrée, or with a side of crackers for a casual appetizer.

For a unique twist, stuff it into hollowed-out tomatoes or avocado halves for an elegant presentation.

How To More Delicious It?

To make the Newk’s Chicken Salad even more delicious, consider the following tips:

◉ Use freshly cooked chicken that’s been allowed to cool for enhanced flavor.

◉ Incorporate a variety of textures, such as adding crunchy elements like toasted almonds or water chestnuts.

◉ Boost the dressing with fresh herbs like dill, tarragon, or chives for a fresh flavor profile.

◉ Introduce a hint of sweetness with a touch of honey or a sprinkle of dried cranberries or cherries.

◉ Season the chicken well and marinate it in spices before cooking for deeper flavor.

◉ Allow the salad to chill for several hours before serving to let the flavors meld together.

◉ Serve on various greens or with a colorful array of fresh vegetables to make it a complete meal.

How To Store It?

Store the Newk’s Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Avoid freezing, as it can affect the texture and taste, especially the creaminess of the mayonnaise and the crispness of the vegetables.

Conclusion

Savoring the rich flavors and varied textures of my homemade Newk’s Chicken Salad Recipe.  

The lean protein from the chicken aids in muscle repair and satiety, while the grapes add a juicy burst of antioxidants. 

This salad is a wise choice as a nutrient-dense lunch because the nuts add a delicious crunch and beneficial fats.

Serving it brought joy and nourishment to the table, combining indulgence with health benefits. It’s a recipe reaffirming my belief that delicious food can also be good for you. 

So, without further delay, start now and let me know your experience through comments. See you again in a new recipe.

FAQS