Craving a light and refreshing meal that's bursting with flavor? Look no further than Kittencal's Chicken Salad! This delectable dish is a delightful symphony of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a tangy dressing that dances on your palate. It's a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course, a sandwich filling, or as a topping for salads and crackers. With three unique variations – Classic Chicken Salad, Curried Chicken Salad, and Waldorf Chicken Salad – there's a flavor profile to suit every palate. Each recipe offers a distinct twist on the classic dish, using a variety of ingredients and flavors to create a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you prefer the timeless simplicity of the Classic Chicken Salad, the exotic flair of the Curried Chicken Salad, or the sweet and nutty crunch of the Waldorf Chicken Salad, you're sure to find a recipe that tickles your fancy. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will leave you craving more.
Let's cook with our recipes!
KITTENCAL'S FAMOUS CAESAR SALAD
I developed this dressing years ago, and I can honestly say that you won't be able to keep your spoon out of the fridge for a taste, it is *that* good! --- although I do think the dressing is better with the anchovy it can certainly be made without them. In a pinch I have even substituted buttermilk for the half and half cream, just use about the same amount --- this dressing gets stronger with refrigeration time so a small amount of fresh garlic goes a long way! ---- usually one recipe without doubling is perfect for one large romaine lettuce, if you are serving a large crowd of people you might want to double -- salad dressing will not work for this use *only* mayonnaise, I find Hellman's brand mayonnaise works the best and for the perfect companion to this salad see my recipe#125034-------------LOWER-FAT OPTION use reduced fat mayonnaise and fat-free half and half or low-fat milk --- also see my recipe#66596
Provided by Kittencalrecipezazz
Categories < 15 Mins
Time 5m
Yield 4-6 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 14
Steps:
- In a small 2-cup mini food processor, process/mince the anchovy fillets and garlic together until finely minced (do this together and firstly, otherwise it will not get minced properly with the other ingredients).
- Add in the remaining ingredients, and process for 30 seconds, or more until well mixed.
- Adjust seasonings to taste.
- Thin with buttermilk (or milk) for a thinner consistency if desired.
- Store in fridge, covered in a glass container for 3 or more hours before using (the flavors become stronger when left in the fridge for a longer time).
- Toss desired amount of dressing with Romaine lettuce and croutons.
- Sprinkle with more grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
KITTENCAL'S GRILLED CHICKEN CAESAR SALAD
For ease I have listed bagged lettuce, all ingredient amounts may be adjusted, this recipe will yield four if you are serving more then double amounts, once the chicken is cooked and the dressing is made this takes little time to put together, I strongly suggest to use my dressing from recipe#116849 --- prep time does not include grilling the chicken ----your family and/or guests will be licking their plate clean!
Provided by Kittencalrecipezazz
Categories Chicken
Time 15m
Yield 4 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 8
Steps:
- Season the chicken breasts as desired (I use a little seasoned salt and garlic powder) grill until thoroughly cooked (about 12-15 minutes) remove from heat and cool for 10 minutes.
- Slice the breasts into about 1/2-inch slices.
- In a large bowl toss the lettuce with Parmesan cheese, red grape halves, onions and croutons.
- Add in the Caesar dressing and toss to coat (you may use more dressing to taste).
- Season with fresh ground black pepper if desired.
- Divide the salad between 4 serving bowls and top with sliced chicken.
- Delicious!
KITTENCAL'S FAMOUS GREEK SALAD
Be prepared for the best Greek salad on the planet! --- plan ahead the dressing needs at least 2 or more hours to blend the flavors, I sometimes add in 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese to the dressing for a more cheesy dressing, all amounts may be adjusted to taste ---- to marinade the salad allow to sit at room temperature before serving, see bottom of instructions --- you will find this and many more of my recipes posted here http://kittencalskitchen.com/2009/04/13/kittens-famous-greek-salad/ ---also see my recipe #359292
Provided by Kittencalrecipezazz
Categories Greek
Time 10m
Yield 6-8 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 16
Steps:
- For the dressing; in a processor or use a wire whisk process/whisk the olive oil with lemon juice, 2 teaspoons dried oregano, garlic, dried, basil, red wine vinegar, salt and sugar until smooth (add in more oregano and lemon juice if needed).
- Season with black pepper.
- Chill in fridge for a couple of hours before using to blend flavors.
- Place the salad ingredients in a large bowl.
- Pour dressing over; toss to combine.
- If desired allow the salad to sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before serving, or you can refrigerate for 1 hour (tossing a few time during sitting time).
KITTENCAL'S CHICKEN SALAD
This is wonderful either scooped on a bed of lettuce, stuffed in between a pita or slices of whole wheat bread --- plan ahead the mixture needs to chill for 4 hours before serving, don't even bother tasting before that time, the grapes or chopped apple must be added in just before serving --- *note* see bottom of recipe for poaching chicken breasts, I also sometimes like to add in 1/2 teaspoon curry powder, but that is only optional, recipe may be doubled :)
Provided by Kittencalrecipezazz
Categories Lunch/Snacks
Time 2h
Yield 3-4 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 11
Steps:
- In a medium bowl toss together chicken with celery, onions and cranberries.
- In another bowl mix all dressing ingredients until well blended; add to the chicken mixture and toss to combine.
- Cover and chill for a minumum of 4-24 hours.
- Just before serving mix in grape halves then season with black pepper.
- POACHING CHICKEN-------.
- Place the chicken breasts in a saucepan.
- Cover with water and 1/2 teaspoon salt (and 1 bay leaf optional) bring to a simmer.
- Lightly simmer over low heat for about 15 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let sit in the water for about 10 minutes.
- Cool and chop.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 389.1, Fat 19.9, SaturatedFat 5.8, Cholesterol 129.3, Sodium 577.7, Carbohydrate 19, Fiber 2.1, Sugar 11.3, Protein 33.6
KITTENCAL'S CAESAR TORTELLINI SALAD
My family *LOVES* this salad, I make often in the summer with sweet cherry tomatoes from my garden, feel free to adjust all ingredient amounts and add in other ingeredints also, you can sub feta for Parmesan, use your favorite Caesar dressing or use my recipe#116849. Prep time does not include cooking the tortellini.
Provided by Kittencalrecipezazz
Categories Summer
Time 5m
Yield 8 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 8
Steps:
- In a medium bowl combine the cooked tortellini with chopped lettuce, Caesar dressing and Parmesan cheese; toss well to coat.
- Season with black pepper to taste and salt if desired.
- Top with sliced cherry tomatoes and croutons.
- Serve immediately.
- Delicious!
KITTENCAL'S MOIST CHEDDAR-GARLIC OVEN FRIED CHICKEN BREAST
This is for serious garlic lovers. The chicken bakes out so moist and tender! Grated cheese may be sprinkled on top of the breast the last 5 minutes of cooking if desired but that is optional. Double all ingredients for more than four breasts and adjust the amount of garlic to suit taste. For the coating amount you might be able to get away with 5 or maybe 6 very small chicken breasts, but I would suggest to increase the amount slightly --- to take this dish to yet another level, about 10 minutes before the cooking time is finished, drizzle the top of the chicken with a little pasta sauce, then sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top. Return to oven for about 10 minutes until the chicken is completely cooked and sauce is hot and cheese has melted. For a lemon-garlic flavor add in 3 tablespoons lemon juice to the melted butter/garlic mixture --- *NOTE* for a healthier alternative Smart Balance Butter Blend may be used in place of the melted butter --- you will love this chicken! Visit my food blog, www.kittencalskitchen.com, for more of my recipes.
Provided by Kittencalrecipezazz
Categories Chicken Breast
Time 1h
Yield 4 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 10
Steps:
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Butter an 11 x 7-inch pan (if using more than 4 breasts use a larger pan).
- In a bowl, combine melted butter with fresh minced garlic, 1 teaspoon garlic powder and salt.
- In another bowl, combine the dry breadcrumbs with 1/2 cup finely grated cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese 1 teaspoon garlic powder and coarse ground black pepper.
- Dip chicken in butter mixture; then in crumb mixture.
- Place in prepared pan and bake uncovered for 35-45 minutes or until cooked through, larger breasts may take more time (placing the chicken on a rack in a pan will produce an extra crispy crust).
- Top with shredded cheddar or mozzarella the last 5 minutes of cooking (this is only optional.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 452.1, Fat 26.1, SaturatedFat 14.8, Cholesterol 136.7, Sodium 852.6, Carbohydrate 18.6, Fiber 1.4, Sugar 1.5, Protein 34.9
KITTENCAL'S EASY MARINADE FOR GRILLED CHICKEN
If you are in a hurry and want a great marinade for chicken this is it! marinade for about 6-8 hours, no longer than 8 hours as the vinegar will start to "cook" the chicken.... I find that Kraft Italian is the best for this and by the sounds of it this marinade works on beef too so you might want to give that a try!
Provided by Kittencalrecipezazz
Categories Chicken
Time 6h
Yield 10 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 5
Steps:
- In a large bowl mix all ingredients together until well blended.
- Add in chicken pieces, cover and refrigerate for 6-8 hours.
- When ready to grill, remove the chicken from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels.
- Season the chicken with seasoning salt and pepper, then grill.
- There is enough marinade for up to 10 pieces of chicken.
- Delicious!
Nutrition Facts : Calories 183.1, Fat 18.2, SaturatedFat 2.7, Sodium 472, Carbohydrate 5.6, Fiber 0.1, Sugar 3.8, Protein 0.4
KITTENCAL'S CHICKEN CRESCENT ROLL CASSEROLE
This will also work great with turkey; if you do not have chicken breasts, then use any leftover cooked chicken. If desired you can fill the crescents just with the filling mixture and omit the soup, just brush with butter before baking. They are wonderful just stuffed with the filling! A few members have experienced a soggy bottom, so you might want to consider just drizzling half (or even a little less) of the soup mixture on top and a little around the sides of the crescents, then save the rest of the soup mixture for another time (this will help prevent a soggy bottom). You may use the jumbo crescent rolls and stuff with more chicken mixture :)
Provided by Kittencalrecipezazz
Categories Chicken
Time 55m
Yield 8 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 14
Steps:
- Set oven to 350°F.
- Butter a casserole dish (any size to hold crescent rolls).
- In a saucepan, mix half and half cream, 3/4 cup grated cheese (can use more cheese if desired) and undiluted chicken soup (can season with black pepper if desired).
- Heat just until the cheese melts (do not boil).
- For the filling --- (make certain that the cream cheese and butter are very soft) in a bowl, mix the soft cream cheese with butter until very smooth, then add in garlic powder (if using).
- Add in the chopped chicken, onion and cheddar cheese; mix well until combined.
- Add in 2 tablespoons whipping cream or mayonnaise; mix to combine (add in a little more if the mixture seems too dry).
- Season with seasoned salt or white and black pepper to taste.
- Unroll the crescent rolls.
- Place 1 heaping tablespoon chicken mixture (or a little more) on top of each crescent triangle, then roll up starting at the thicker end.
- Drizzle a small amount of soup mixture on the bottom of the dish.
- Then place the crescent rolls seam-side down on top of the creamed mixture in the casserole.
- Drizzle the remaining sauce on top (you don't have to use the full amount of cream sauce, just use as much as desired) and sprinkle with 1 cup (or more) grated cheese, or amount desired.
- Bake for about 30 minutes.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 518.1, Fat 31.8, SaturatedFat 17, Cholesterol 126.4, Sodium 847.5, Carbohydrate 34.8, Fiber 2.3, Sugar 3.6, Protein 22.9
Tips:
- For the best flavor, use high-quality, free-range chicken.
- Poach or boil the chicken until it is cooked through but still tender. Do not overcook, or the chicken will become dry.
- Let the chicken cool completely before shredding it. This will help to prevent the chicken from falling apart.
- Use a variety of vegetables in your chicken salad. This will add flavor, texture, and nutrients.
- Be creative with your dressing. You can use mayonnaise, yogurt, or a vinaigrette. You can also add herbs, spices, or other flavorings to taste.
- Serve the chicken salad on a bed of lettuce, or use it as a sandwich filling. You can also enjoy it as a dip with crackers or vegetables.
Conclusion:
Kittencal's chicken salad is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it is a great option for busy weeknights or special occasions. So next time you are looking for a quick and easy meal, give Kittencal's chicken salad a try. You won't be disappointed!
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