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Shredded Chicken Salad With Cilantro

Shredded Chicken Salad With Cilantro recipe image
This shredded chicken salad offers a delightful balance of textures and flavors, combining tender, poached chicken with deeply caramelized Vidalia onions and crunchy toasted walnuts. The dressing is brightened by fresh cilantro and scallions, creating a refreshing yet hearty dish that stands on its own. It is an excellent choice for a quick lunch, a picnic side, or a light dinner that feels substantial without being heavy. The sweetness of the onions pairs perfectly with the herbal notes of the cilantro, while the walnuts add a satisfying crunch. Simple to prepare with pantry staples, this salad is a versatile favorite that brings a touch of homestyle comfort to any meal.
Cooking Method: , ,
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Advanced
Servings: 6
Calories: 561.8
Dietary: Gluten-free
Description
This shredded chicken salad offers a delightful balance of textures and flavors, combining tender, poached chicken with deeply caramelized Vidalia onions and crunchy toasted walnuts. The dressing is brightened by fresh cilantro and scallions, creating a refreshing yet hearty dish that stands on its own. It is an excellent choice for a quick lunch, a picnic side, or a light dinner that feels substantial without being heavy. The sweetness of the onions pairs perfectly with the herbal notes of the cilantro, while the walnuts add a satisfying crunch. Simple to prepare with pantry staples, this salad is a versatile favorite that brings a touch of homestyle comfort to any meal.
Ingredients
  • 3 pound Whole chicken breasts
  • 1/4 cup Light vegetable oil
  • 2 cups Chopped Vidalia onions
  • 3/4 cup Walnuts, lightly toasted
  • 1/4 cup Finely chopped scallions
  • 3/4 cup Finely chopped cilantro
  • 1 1/3 cups Homemade mayonnaise
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt
  • to taste Fresh ground black pepper
Directions
  1. 1
    Place the chicken breasts in a saucepan and add enough water to cover them completely.
  2. 2
    Bring the water to a boil, then add 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
  3. 3
    Reduce the heat and simmer the chicken until it is cooked through, about 15 minutes.
  4. 4
    Drain the chicken and allow it to cool enough to handle.
  5. 5
    Remove and discard the skin, then remove the chicken from the bones and tear the meat into shreds.
  6. 6
    Place the shredded chicken in a large salad bowl and set aside.
  7. 7
    Heat the vegetable oil in a medium-size skillet over medium-high heat.
  8. 8
    Add the chopped Vidalia onions and sauté, stirring frequently, until deep golden brown, about 20 minutes.
  9. 9
    Drain any excess oil from the onions and add them to the chicken.
  10. 10
    Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.
  11. 11
    Add the toasted walnuts, chopped scallions, and cilantro to the bowl.
  12. 12
    Toss everything together with the mayonnaise.
  13. 13
    Season with fresh ground black pepper and additional salt if needed.
  14. 14
    Serve the salad at room temperature.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

Amount Per Serving
Calories 561.8kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 12.3g19%
Saturated Fat 3.4g17%
Cholesterol 289.4mg97%
Sodium 252.0mg11%
Total Carbohydrate 0.0g0%
Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
Sugars 0.0g
Protein 105.6g212%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

For best flavor, ensure the onions are cooked slowly until deeply caramelized, not just softened. This adds a crucial sweet depth to the salad.

Toasting the walnuts enhances their crunch and nutty flavor. Spread them on a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant, watching closely to prevent burning.

This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld nicely overnight, making it a great meal-prep option.

If homemade mayonnaise is not available, a high-quality commercial mayo works well. For a lighter version, you can substitute half the mayo with Greek yogurt.

Cilantro is key to the fresh profile of this dish. If you dislike cilantro, you can substitute with additional scallions or fresh parsley.

Keywords: shredded chicken, chicken salad, cilantro, vidalia onions, toasted walnuts, caramelized onions, fresh herbs, light lunch, picnic food, protein salad, homemade mayonnaise, scallions, easy recipe, meal prep, healthy dinner, side dish
Read it online: https://www.chefs-mate.com/recipe/shredded-chicken-salad-with-cilantro/