Basil-Parmesan Chicken Salad with Apples

I bought two rotisserie chickens over the weekend. I used one to make a pot of chicken soup while I used the other one for salad. Using the already cooked rotisserie chicken meat is a convenient and easy way of making chicken salad. This chicken salad recipe is not only delicious but also full of flavors and texture. The apples and celery give this salad its crisp texture and the basil in the dressing complements the peppery taste of the arugula. The addition of the shredded chicken meat makes this salad a complete and hearty meal. I really enjoyed having this simple and delicious salad for dinner.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken Salad

To make this chicken salad shine, start with quality ingredients. Fresh, crisp vegetables are key. When chopping your celery, aim for small, even pieces to ensure a good crunch in every bite. If you prefer a bit of sweetness, consider adding a touch of honey to your dressing. This can balance out the flavors, especially if your apples are tart. If you have time, let the salad sit in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. For a creamier texture, you can mix in a dollop of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise, depending on your preference. Lastly, when shredding the chicken, be sure not to overdo it. You want some nice chunks for texture rather than a completely smooth mixture.

Ingredient Notes

Selecting the right apples can make a difference in your salad. Crisp varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well, adding both flavor and crunch. If you like a bit of a kick, opt for a tart apple. Fresh basil is essential for this dish. If you have a garden, use freshly picked basil leaves for the best flavor. As for the cheese, fresh grated Parmesan gives a creamier texture than pre-shredded cheese, which can be drier. If you enjoy a bit of nuttiness, consider adding some toasted walnuts or pecans. They not only enhance the flavor but also add more texture. Lastly, arugula is a great choice for its peppery bite, but feel free to mix in other greens like spinach or mixed salad greens for variety.

Serving Suggestions

This basil-Parmesan chicken salad is versatile and can be served in various ways. For a light lunch, enjoy it on its own or scoop it into a bowl with extra greens. If you are feeling a bit more indulgent, serve it on a toasted croissant or in a wrap for a satisfying sandwich option. Pair it with a side of fresh fruit or a light soup for a complete meal. If you want to elevate your presentation, consider serving the salad in large lettuce leaves, creating a beautiful and healthy wrap. For a picnic or potluck, this salad travels well and can be served cold. If you want to impress your guests, sprinkle some extra basil or shaved Parmesan on top right before serving for that restaurant-quality touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use instead of rotisserie chicken?

You can cook your own chicken breasts or thighs and shred them for the salad. Grilled or baked chicken works well too, just make sure to season it a bit for extra flavor.

How long can I store the chicken salad?

The salad can be stored in the fridge for about 3 days in an airtight container. Just keep in mind that the apples might get a bit brown, so adding them right before serving is a good idea.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare all the ingredients and mix everything together, except for the apples and arugula. Just toss those in right before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.

What are some good serving suggestions?

This salad is great on its own, but you can also serve it on a bed of greens or in a wrap. Pairing it with some crusty bread or pita chips makes for a nice crunch too.

What should I do if my dressing is too thick?

If your dressing is on the thicker side, just add a splash of lemon juice or water to loosen it up. Stir it until you reach your desired consistency.

Basil-Parmesan Chicken Salad with Apples

Liza A

Basil-Parmesan chicken salad brings together tender rotisserie chicken, crunchy apples, and fresh basil for a bright, creamy, and satisfying dish you’ll love. Toss in arugula and cranberries for an extra pop of flavor and texture.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 minute min

Total Time 10 minutes mins

Course Salad

Cuisine American

Servings 4 -6 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• 1 cup olive oil or regular mayonnaise
• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 garlic cloves peeled
• 1 2 ½-pound rotisserie chicken, skin and bones discarded, meat shredded into bite-size pieces (3 cups)
• 4 celery ribs thinly sliced
• 2 Granny Smith apples cored and diced
• 4 ounces 4 cups baby arugula
• Dried cranberries optional
• Salt and pepper

Instructions

 

• Process mayonnaise, basil, Parmesan, lemon juice, and garlic in food processor until smooth and pale green, about 10 second.
• Combine chicken, celery, apples, and mayonnaise mixture in a large bowl. Gently toss arugula into salad and season with salt and pepper. Sprinkle with dried cranberries, if using.
• Serve and enjoy!

Notes

Recipe source: America’s Test Kitchen: The Simple Recipes

Nutrition

Calories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 30gFat: 32gSaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5g

Keyword apple, basil, chicken salad, easy meal, healthy recipe

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