Imagine a lunch so irresistible that it transforms your ordinary meal into a gourmet experience - without spending hours in the kitchen. This Creamy Basil Chicken Salad is your secret weapon to a quick, delicious, and utterly satisfying dish that will have everyone asking for your recipe. Packed with fresh basil, crunchy walnuts, and a creamy yogurt base, this chicken salad isn't just a meal; it's a culinary adventure waiting to happen!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all the ingredients needed for the Creamy Basil Chicken Salad. Ensure you have 2 cups of cooked chicken that is diced, 1/2 cup of Greek yogurt, 1/4 cup of mayonnaise, 1/4 cup of fresh basil that is finely chopped, 1/4 cup of walnuts that are chopped, and salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced cooked chicken, Greek yogurt, and mayonnaise. Use a spatula or spoon to mix these ingredients together until the chicken is well-coated with the creamy mixture.
- Add the freshly chopped basil to the bowl. This will give the salad a fresh, aromatic flavor that complements the chicken beautifully. Gently fold the basil into the chicken mixture.
- Next, add the chopped walnuts to the mixture. The walnuts will add a nice crunch and a nutty flavor to the salad. Stir the mixture gently to ensure the walnuts are evenly distributed.
- Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your preference. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Once the salad is well mixed, taste it and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can add a little more Greek yogurt or mayonnaise.
- Chill the Creamy Basil Chicken Salad in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This will enhance the overall taste of the salad.
- After chilling, remove the salad from the refrigerator. Serve it on a bed of fresh greens, in a sandwich, or with crackers for a delightful meal or snack.
- Enjoy your delicious Creamy Basil Chicken Salad, perfect for a light lunch or a quick dinner!
Tips
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken or quickly grill fresh chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture.
- For extra creaminess, use full-fat Greek yogurt and high-quality mayonnaise.
- Chop the basil just before adding to maintain its vibrant flavor and color.
- Toast the walnuts lightly before chopping to enhance their nutty flavor.
- Let the salad chill for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute some mayonnaise with additional Greek yogurt.
- Serve chilled on a bed of mixed greens or as a sandwich filling for maximum enjoyment.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 244kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
