Name: Skinny Mustard Chicken Salad
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds cooked boneless skinless chicken breast; 1/4 cup chopped celery; 1/4 cup minced chives; 1/3 cup seedless grapes; 1/4 cup apple; 2 tablespoons chopped pecans; 1/4 cup paleo mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons yellow mustard; Beefsteak or Hothouse tomato slices for serving

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When I think about a quick and flavorful meal, the Skinny Mustard Chicken Salad always comes to mind. It’s one of those recipes I stumbled upon during a busy week when I needed something light yet satisfying. A friend shared it with me, and I was instantly hooked. The combination of tender chicken, crunchy celery, and the tangy kick from mustard makes it a perfect dish for lunch or dinner. Every time I whip it up, it takes me back to those sunny days spent enjoying simple pleasures. It’s a dish that brings a smile to my face and leaves my taste buds dancing with joy.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
5 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
18 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Blender, Mixing Bowl

The Best Thing About This Skinny Mustard Chicken Salad

There’s something truly special about the Skinny Mustard Chicken Salad that keeps me coming back for more. Here are a few reasons why this recipe has become a favorite in my household.

1. Quick and Easy to Prepare

We all have those days when time is of the essence. This recipe is a lifesaver, taking just minutes to throw together. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight or a last-minute lunch.

2. Packed with Flavor

The blend of paleo mayonnaise and yellow mustard creates a creamy and zesty dressing that perfectly complements the chicken. It’s a delightful dance of flavors in every bite!

3. Healthy and Nutritious

This salad is not only delicious but also healthy. It’s low in carbs and high in protein, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet.

4. Versatile and Customizable

You can easily adapt the Skinny Mustard Chicken Salad to suit your taste. Add in extra vegetables or even swap the chicken for a plant-based option. The possibilities are endless!

5. Great for Meal Prep

This salad stores well in the fridge, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. You can prepare a batch and enjoy it throughout the week, making healthy eating easy!

6. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a casual picnic or a family gathering, the Skinny Mustard Chicken Salad fits right in. It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.

Main Ingredients for Skinny Mustard Chicken Salad

The key to a great chicken salad lies in its ingredients. Each component plays a significant role in achieving the perfect balance of taste and texture. The combination of tender chicken with crunchy celery and the sweetness of grapes creates a delightful ensemble that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Let’s dive into the essential ingredients that make this dish stand out.

1 1/2 pounds cooked boneless skinless chicken breast, chopped – The star of the show! Tender and packed with protein, it serves as the perfect base for our salad.
1/4 cup chopped celery – Adds a satisfying crunch and freshness that complements the chicken.
1/4 cup minced chives – These herbs bring a mild onion flavor that enhances the overall taste profile.
1/3 cup quartered seedless grapes – A touch of sweetness that balances the savory elements beautifully.
1/4 cup apple, cored and chopped – For an added crunch and a hint of sweetness, diced apples are a delightful addition.
2 tablespoons chopped pecans – These nuts contribute a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that elevates the salad.
1/4 cup paleo mayonnaise – A creamy element that binds everything together, making the salad rich and satisfying.
2 tablespoons yellow mustard – This ingredient adds a zesty kick that brings the whole dish to life.
Beefsteak or Hothouse tomato slices for serving – These juicy slices are the ideal bed for your salad, adding freshness and visual appeal.

Recipe Steps for Skinny Mustard Chicken Salad

Preparing the Skinny Mustard Chicken Salad is a breeze! With just a few simple steps, you can create a dish that’s sure to impress. Gather your ingredients, and let’s get started!

Begin by taking your cooked chicken breast, which should be cooled and chopped. Place it in a medium mixing bowl. If you’re using leftover chicken, this is a great way to repurpose it.
Add the chopped celery and chives to the bowl. The celery adds a satisfying crunch, while the chives offer a mild onion flavor.
Next, toss in the quartered grapes and chopped apple. These sweet additions will brighten the flavors of the salad.
Sprinkle in the chopped pecans. Their nutty taste and crunchiness will enhance the texture of the salad.
Now, the time has come to add the creamy dressing. Pour in the paleo mayonnaise and yellow mustard. This combination will give your salad a rich and tangy flavor.
Gently fold all the ingredients together until they’re well combined. Be careful not to mash the grapes or apple.
At this point, taste the salad. If you desire more creaminess, feel free to add a bit more mayonnaise or mustard according to your preference.
Once everything is blended to your liking, it’s time to serve! Spoon the salad onto slices of fresh tomatoes. This not only adds flavor but gives the dish a beautiful presentation.
Finally, enjoy your Skinny Mustard Chicken Salad. It’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a picnic!

Things Worth Knowing

Ingredient Freshness: Always use fresh ingredients. The crunchiness of the celery and sweetness of the grapes make a big difference in flavor.
Chilling Time: For best results, let the salad chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Protein Options: While this recipe uses chicken, you can easily swap in cooked turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Texture Variation: Consider adding different nuts or seeds for extra crunch, such as sunflower seeds or walnuts.

Expert Tips about Skinny Mustard Chicken Salad

Before you dive into making the Skinny Mustard Chicken Salad, here are some expert tips to elevate your dish. Follow these suggestions to ensure your salad is a hit!

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for up to three days.
Freezing: I don’t recommend freezing this salad, as the texture of the chicken and vegetables can change.
Pairing: Serve the salad with whole grain crackers or on a bed of mixed greens for a complete meal.
Herb Boost: Consider adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley for an extra flavor kick.
Make Ahead: This salad is great for meal prep! Prepare it a day in advance for a quick grab-and-go lunch.
Seasoning: Don’t forget to adjust the seasoning! A pinch of salt and pepper can enhance the flavor significantly.

How to Serve Skinny Mustard Chicken Salad

Serving the Skinny Mustard Chicken Salad is as important as making it. Here are some delightful ways to present and enjoy this dish:

On a Plate: Serve the salad neatly piled on a plate. It makes for a beautiful presentation and is perfect for family dinners.
On a Bed of Greens: For a heartier meal, serve the salad on a bed of mixed greens. This adds color and extra nutrients.
With Crackers: Pair the salad with whole grain crackers. It’s a great option for a lunchbox or picnic.
As a Sandwich: Use the salad as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. It’s delicious between two slices of bread or rolled in a tortilla!
Perfect for Events: This salad is fantastic for gatherings. Serve it in a large bowl so guests can help themselves.
Garnishes: Sprinkle fresh herbs or extra chives on top for a pop of color and flavor.

FAQ

Absolutely! In fact, making the Skinny Mustard Chicken Salad ahead of time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just prepare the salad and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to three days. This makes it a perfect meal prep option for busy weeknights or lunches!

The Skinny Mustard Chicken Salad is versatile and pairs well with various sides. You can serve it on a bed of mixed greens or alongside whole grain crackers for a delightful crunch. It’s also great as a filling for wraps or sandwiches, making it a fantastic picnic choice!

Yes! One of the best features of the Skinny Mustard Chicken Salad is its meal prep-friendly nature. You can whip up a large batch and store it in the fridge for quick and easy lunches throughout the week. Just remember to keep it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.

Absolutely! The Skinny Mustard Chicken Salad is highly customizable. Feel free to add extra vegetables you love, or swap the chicken for chickpeas or turkey if you prefer. You can also adjust the dressing to your liking by adding more mustard or mayonnaise for extra creaminess.

Conclusion

The Skinny Mustard Chicken Salad is a delightful, refreshing dish that combines wholesome ingredients with flavorful dressing. It’s not just a meal; it’s a way to enjoy clean eating without sacrificing taste. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and enjoy the deliciousness it offers!