Crispy Chicken Salad Delight

Indulge in a refreshing mix of smoky chicken, crunchy peanuts, and zesty vegetables with this crispy chicken salad. Each bite offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors that are both satisfying and exciting. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this salad is vibrant and full of nutrients, making it a great option for those on the go. The creamy sauce adds a rich layer of flavor, complementing the freshness of the veggies. It's an adaptable recipe that can be adjusted to suit different taste preferences or dietary needs. Ideal for both small family meals and larger gatherings, this dish can be served as a standalone dish or as part of a more elaborate meal. Whether you're looking for a healthy meal option or a flavorful side, this salad ticks all the boxes. Enjoy it fresh and cool, offering a burst of flavors with every mouthful.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 large smoked chicken breast or 2 smoked thighs
200 g canned green peas
100 g salted peanuts
2 pickles
1/2 small napa cabbage
1 small red bell pepper

Sauce

200 g sour cream
100 g mayonnaise
2 tbsp mustard
Salt, to taste
Sugar, to taste
Pepper, to taste

Preparation Time

Total time: 20 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare the Chicken: Slice the smoked chicken breast or thighs into bite-sized pieces.
Chop the Vegetables: Dice the pickles and red bell pepper into small cubes. Slice the napa cabbage into thin strips.
Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the chopped chicken, vegetables, rinsed and drained green peas, and salted peanuts.
Create the Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix the sour cream with mayonnaise and mustard until smooth.
Season: Add salt, sugar, and pepper to the sauce according to your taste preferences.
Combine: Pour the sauce over the salad ingredients. Carefully stir the salad until all components are evenly coated with the sauce.
Taste and Adjust: Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Chill: For best results, refrigerate the salad for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
Serve: Gently toss once more before serving to ensure ingredients are evenly distributed.
Enjoy: Serve chilled as a refreshing meal or side dish.

Tips

Substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra freshness.
Use toasted almonds or cashews if you prefer a different type of nut.

Nutritions

Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
Protein: 25 g
Fats: 20 g
Carbohydrates: 18 g

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh.
Spicier Option: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the sauce for a kick.
Low-Fat Version: Use low-fat sour cream and mayonnaise.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with fresh crusty bread for a complete meal.
Garnish with fresh herbs like dill or parsley for added aroma.
Serve alongside a bowl of fresh fruit for a balanced meal.

Best Places

Café de Flore - Famous for its classic Parisian ambiance and delicious dishes. Location: 172 Boulevard Saint-Germain, Paris, France.
The Ledbury - Acclaimed for its exceptional service and creative menu. Location: 127 Ledbury Road, London, UK.
Osteria Francescana - Renowned for its innovative Italian cuisine. Location: Via Stella, 22, Modena, Italy.
Café Central - Historic venue known for its elegant atmosphere. Location: Herrengasse 14, Vienna, Austria.
El Celler de Can Roca - Celebrated for its avant-garde culinary experience. Location: C/ de Can Sunyer, 48, Girona, Spain.
Quintonil - Praised for its contemporary Mexican cuisine. Location: Newton 55, Polanco, Mexico City, Mexico.
Gaggan - Known for its progressive Indian cuisine. Location: 68/1 Sukhumvit Soi 31, Bangkok, Thailand.
Nobu Tokyo - Offers exquisite Japanese dishes with a twist. Location: 1 Chome-1-2 Yurakucho, Chiyoda City, Tokyo, Japan.
Alinea - Celebrated for its cutting-edge gastronomy and artistic presentation. Location: 1723 N Halsted St, Chicago, USA.
Geranium - Praised as one of the best fine-dining experiences in the region. Location: Per Henrik Lings Allé 4, København, Denmark.