| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 30 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 350 | 12g | 2g | 20g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 15g | 3g | 30g | 0.75g |
Few things charm the Southern heart more than a fresh, crisp salad loaded with the perfect mix of zesty and sweet components. Kitchen alchemy at its finest, one of my personal favorites is the fabulous Horseradish Chicken Salad. Vibrant with the flavors of South Carolina coastline and bursting with both health benefits and flavor, this is not your average salad.
Embracing A Love for Balanced Flavors
Chicken salad is a classic dish that finds a cherished place at many a Southern table – my own included! What sets this Horseradish Chicken Salad recipe apart is the harmonious balance it strikes between the various elements, stemming from both the ingredients it uses and the unique manner in which they’re combined. The horseradish and Dijon mustard lend a zingy kick to the tender chicken, while the addition of sweet fruits like grapes and apple slices creates a pleasing counterbalance—an homage to my love for Southern-style dishes with depth. It’s similar to a Waldorf Salad, with layers of flavor and textures that tango in every bite.
Healthful, Wholesome Goodness
But it’s not just the spirited flavors that I adore. This recipe is also a powerhouse of nutrition. Lean chicken breast is a great source of protein, while the Greek yogurt adds a creamy tanginess to the dish without the excess fat or calories often found in traditional mayo-based salads. Plus, let’s not forget about the walnuts—an excellent source of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids—along with fiber-rich fruits like apple and dried cranberries.
This Horseradish Chicken Salad is as versatile as it is delicious, playing the main role in a hearty lunch, or starring side-by-side with traditional Southern dishes like honey-drizzled biscuits and country-fried chicken for a family get-together. Or, jazz it up as a fancy appetizer by serving robust spoonfuls on crostini or endive leaves for your next Southern soiree.
Ah, the charm of the South and the health-conscious minds of today converge in this delightful salad recipe. Add the Horseradish Chicken Salad to your table and captivate the heart, soul, and tummies of all who grace your table.
What You’ll Need
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup prepared horseradish
- 1/4 cup light mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cups red grapes, halved
- 1 apple, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 6 cups fresh mixed salad greens
Method
Step One
Season the boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and black pepper to taste. Cook them in a skillet over medium heat until browned and cooked through, usually 10-12 minutes each side. Once done, remove from heat and let them cool.
Step Two
While waiting for your chicken to cool, you can prepare the salad dressing. In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of prepared horseradish, 1/4 cup of light mayonnaise, 1/2 cup of Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. Mix all these ingredients until they form a smooth dressing.
Step Three
When the chicken is cool enough to handle, cut it into bite-size pieces. Add these pieces into the bowl with the horseradish dressing. Also add in 2 cups of halved red grapes, 1 finely chopped apple, 1/2 cup of dried cranberries, and 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts. Stir well to make sure that the chicken pieces and fruits are well-coated with the dressing.
Step Four
Taste the chicken salad. If necessary, add more salt and black pepper to taste. Be sure to mix well after each addition of seasonings.
Step Five
Serve your Horseradish Chicken Salad over 6 cups of fresh mixed salad greens. Enjoy this vibrant and tangy salad as a healthy lunch or dinner option.
