There’s something incredibly comforting about the taste of a well-made chicken salad. It’s a dish that can evoke fond memories of family picnics, casual lunches, or holiday gatherings. But what if you could elevate that classic recipe by adding a twist? That’s where this chicken salad recipe with eggs and pickle relish comes in. This combination brings together the familiar taste of chicken salad with the rich flavor of hard-boiled eggs and the zing of pickle relish. If you’re craving something new yet nostalgic, keep reading for a step-by-step guide on how to make this tasty dish.
Why This Chicken Salad Recipe with Eggs and Pickle Relish is a Must-Try
This chicken salad recipe with eggs and pickle relish isn’t just your ordinary chicken salad. The eggs add a creamy, rich texture, while the pickle relish provides a burst of tanginess that pairs perfectly with the savory chicken. It’s a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and can be tailored to your tastes.
Whether you’re a fan of classic chicken salad or you’re looking to try something different, this recipe brings a delightful balance of flavors. It’s versatile enough to serve at family gatherings, as a quick lunch, or even as a side dish at your next barbecue. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
What You Need to Make Chicken Salad with Eggs and Pickle Relish
Before you get started, let’s gather the ingredients. This recipe is easy to customize based on your preferences, but these are the essentials that make the dish so delicious:
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Cooked chicken (shredded) | 2 cups |
Hard-boiled eggs | 3 large eggs |
Pickle relish | 2 tbsp |
Mayonnaise | 1/4 cup |
Dijon mustard | 1 tsp |
Celery (chopped) | 1/2 cup |
Onion (chopped) | 1/4 cup |
Salt & pepper | To taste |
Fresh herbs (optional) | 1 tbsp (parsley) |
These ingredients come together to create a balanced and flavorful chicken salad that’s both satisfying and refreshing.
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Best Chicken Salad
Making this chicken salad recipe with eggs and pickle relish is simple and quick. Follow these steps to create a delicious dish your family and friends will love.
Step 1 – Prepare the Ingredients
Start by boiling the eggs. Place them in a pot and cover with cold water. Heat the water until it boils, then lower the heat and let it simmer for approximately 10 minutes. Once done, remove the eggs from the water and let them cool. Once they’re cool enough to handle, peel and chop them into small pieces.
Next, shred your cooked chicken. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or boil your own chicken breasts. Cut the chicken into small, bite-sized pieces and set them aside.
Step 2 – Mix the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped eggs, celery, onion, and any optional fresh herbs like parsley. Add the pickle relish, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard. Mix everything together until the ingredients are evenly coated with the mayonnaise and relish.
Step 3 – Season and Adjust
Add salt and pepper to taste. You may want to adjust the amount of pickle relish depending on how tangy you like your salad. For a richer, creamier consistency, you can add additional mayonnaise. Stir everything until well combined and taste for seasoning.
Step 4 – Chill and Serve
For the best flavor, refrigerate your chicken salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together. You can serve it as a stand-alone dish, as a sandwich filling, or even on top of a fresh green salad.
Variations and Customization Ideas
While this chicken salad recipe with eggs and pickle relish is already delicious, there are plenty of ways to customize it to your liking.
Add Some Crunch
For added texture, try tossing in some chopped walnuts, almonds, or sunflower seeds. These will give your chicken salad a satisfying crunch and a slightly nutty flavor that complements the richness of the eggs.
Swap the Mayo
If you’re looking for a lighter option, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. It will still give you a creamy texture but with fewer calories. You could also try a mix of both mayo and yogurt for a balance of richness and lightness.
Make it Spicy
Add a kick of heat by mixing in a few dashes of hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or chili flakes. If you enjoy a bit of spice, this addition will take your chicken salad to the next level.
Health Benefits of Chicken Salad with Eggs and Pickle Relish
This chicken salad isn’t just tasty; it’s packed with nutritional benefits that make it a great meal choice.
High in Protein
Both chicken and eggs are excellent sources of protein, which helps keep you full and supports muscle growth. This makes the salad a great option for a filling lunch or a post-workout meal.
Low-Carb Option
Without the bread, this chicken salad makes for a fantastic low-carb meal. It’s perfect if you’re following a keto, paleo, or other low-carb diet. You can enjoy it with lettuce wraps or alongside your favorite low-carb side dishes.
Rich in Vitamins
Celery and onions provide essential vitamins and minerals, including fiber and antioxidants. These ingredients add a boost of nutrition to your chicken salad, making it a well-rounded meal.
Perfect Pairings for Your Chicken Salad Recipe
Wondering what to serve with your chicken salad? Here are some great pairing ideas that will complement the flavors of your dish:
Side Dishes
- Serve your chicken salad with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a bowl of coleslaw. These side dishes will balance the richness of the salad and add extra nutrients.
Drinks
- For drinks, a light white wine or iced tea pairs perfectly with the creamy and tangy chicken salad. If you prefer a non-alcoholic beverage, lemon water or sparkling water with a slice of lime is a refreshing choice.
Bread Options
- If you prefer to enjoy your chicken salad as a sandwich, serve it on whole-grain bread or croissants. For a gluten-free option, try serving it in lettuce wraps.
Storing and Keeping Your Chicken Salad Fresh
If you’ve made a big batch of chicken salad, you’ll want to know how to store it properly to keep it fresh.
How to Store Leftovers
Place your leftover chicken salad in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will help the salad stay fresh and safe to eat.
Can You Freeze Chicken Salad?
While chicken salad is best enjoyed fresh, it’s not ideal for freezing. The mayonnaise and eggs may change texture after freezing, so it’s better to make it ahead and keep it chilled in the fridge.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
You can use any cooked chicken for this recipe, such as rotisserie chicken, boiled chicken breasts, or even grilled chicken. Shredded chicken works best when mixed in the salad.
Is it possible to substitute sweet pickle relish for dill relish?
Yes, you can substitute sweet pickle relish if you prefer a sweeter taste. However, dill relish is the more traditional choice and provides a more savory flavor.
How can I make this salad lighter?
To make your chicken salad lighter, try using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also reduce the amount of mayo to make it a less creamy version.
This chicken salad recipe with eggs and pickle relish is a delicious and versatile dish that anyone can enjoy. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or making it for a quick lunch, the combination of tender chicken, rich eggs, and tangy pickle relish is sure to please everyone. Plus, it’s easy to customize, so you can adapt it to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
Try this recipe today and discover just how satisfying a simple twist on a classic can be! Don’t forget to share your results or leave a comment below. Enjoy, and happy cooking!
Ultimate Chicken Salad Recipe with Eggs and Pickle Relish
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded)
- 3 large hard-boiled eggs (chopped)
- 2 tbsp pickle relish
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh herbs (optional, e.g., parsley)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients:Boil the eggs by placing them in a pot and covering with cold water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for about 10 minutes. Remove from heat, cool, peel, and chop.Shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
- Mix the Salad:In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped eggs, celery, onion, and fresh herbs (if using).Add the pickle relish, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard. Stir until well combined.
- Season and Adjust:Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the amount of pickle relish and mayo based on your preferences for tanginess and creaminess.
- Chill and Serve:For best flavor, refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes. Serve chilled, either as a side dish, sandwich, or on a bed of greens.