Zesty Paula Deen Chicken Salad Recipe Bursting with Flavor

Paula Deen’s chicken salad transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary culinary experience.

Southern charm infuses every delectable bite with luscious flavor profiles.

Crisp vegetables and tender chicken create a harmonious dance of textures that tantalize the senses.

Creamy dressing weaves through each ingredient, binding them into a mouthwatering symphony.

Fresh herbs and unexpected spices elevate this classic dish beyond typical expectations.

Versatile and quick to assemble, this recipe delivers maximum satisfaction with minimal effort.

Grab your fork and get ready to savor a truly unforgettable meal that will become your new favorite comfort food.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 0 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Calories: 450 kcal

Servings: 5

Everything You’ll Need for Paula Deen’s Chicken Salad

• Mayonnaise: Choose a creamy, full-fat version for rich texture and smooth consistency.
• Lemon Juice: Select fresh, bright lemons with firm, glossy skin for maximum zesty flavor.
• Curry Powder: Opt for a high-quality blend with vibrant color and aromatic spices.
• Salt: Use fine sea salt for even distribution and clean seasoning.
• Black Pepper: Freshly ground provides more intense and robust flavor profile.

• Chicken, Sliced Almonds: Select tender, well-cooked chicken and golden-brown almonds for delightful textural contrast.
• Celery: Pick crisp, bright green stalks with minimal blemishes for maximum crunch.

• Red Seedless Grapes: Choose plump, glossy grapes with deep rich color for sweet and juicy elements.
• Red Onion: Select firm, smooth onions with vibrant purple skin for sharp, zesty notes.

Tools to Prep Paula Deen’s Chicken Salad

• Mixing bowl: Spacious and deep for combining ingredients smoothly.
• Whisk: Essential for blending dressing ingredients until creamy and well-integrated.
• Cutting board: Sturdy surface for chopping chicken, grapes, celery, and onions.
• Chef's knife: Sharp blade for precise dicing and slicing ingredients.
• Measuring spoons: Accurate tools for adding salt, pepper, and curry powder.
• Measuring cups: Precise measurements for mayonnaise and other liquid ingredients.
• Airtight container: Perfect for storing and keeping chicken salad fresh in the refrigerator.

Chicken Salad Directions from Paula Deen

• Whip Up a Zesty Dressing

Grab a large bowl and create a luscious sauce by whisking together tangy mayonnaise, bright lemon juice, warming curry powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper until silky smooth.

• Mix Vibrant Ingredients

Toss in tender shredded chicken, sweet juicy grape halves, crunchy diced celery, sharp minced red onion, and toasted nutty almonds. Fold everything gently so each bite gets a perfect blend of flavors and textures.

• Elevate the Flavor Profile

Sample your creation and tweak the seasoning. A quick dash of salt or pepper can transform the entire dish from good to absolutely mouthwatering.

• Serve with Creativity

Spread this delectable mixture between slices of hearty whole wheat bread for a classic sandwich. Or create an elegant salad by nestling the chicken mixture atop crisp greens for a lighter option.

• Maximize Deliciousness

Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for half an hour to allow the flavors to dance and mingle. This magical resting time allows each ingredient to shine. Store in a sealed container and enjoy within three days for maximum freshness and taste.

Customization Ideas and Tips

Elevate the classic recipe with these delightful twists and smart cooking tips.

Replace chicken with turkey, tofu, or chickpeas for a unique protein alternative that keeps the dish exciting and adaptable.

Mix in water chestnuts, toasted pecans, or crispy bacon bits to add unexpected texture and depth to your salad.

Experiment with different curry powder blends like Madras or Thai-style curry to transform the flavor profile and create a global-inspired dish.

Prepare the salad a day in advance to allow the flavors to develop and intensify, making your meal prep even more convenient and delicious.

How to Serve Paula Deen’s Chicken Salad

• Sandwich Spectacular: Layer the creamy chicken salad between slices of toasted whole wheat bread for a satisfying lunch that packs a flavor punch.
• Green Bed Delight: Serve the chicken salad atop a crisp bed of mixed greens, creating a light and refreshing meal that's perfect for warm days.
• Wrap It Up: Roll the chicken salad in a soft tortilla or lettuce wrap for a portable and convenient meal option that's easy to enjoy anywhere.
• Scoop and Dip: Use crisp cucumber slices, bell pepper strips, or crackers as a crunchy vehicle for scooping up this delectable chicken salad.

Storage Tips for Freshness

• Refrigerate Wisely: Store the curry chicken salad in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. Keep the salad chilled at or below 40°F to preserve its quality and taste.
• Maximize Shelf Life: This delightful salad stays delicious for 3-4 days when properly refrigerated. Always use clean utensils when serving to avoid contamination and extend the storage time.
• Prevent Soggy Texture: Keep crunchy ingredients like almonds and celery separate until just before serving to maintain their crisp texture. Mix these elements right before enjoying to preserve their satisfying crunch.
• Freeze with Caution: While possible to freeze, the creamy dressing may slightly separate upon thawing. For best results, consume fresh within the recommended refrigeration period. If freezing, consume within 1-2 months and gently stir before serving to reincorporate ingredients.

Creamy Paula Deen Chicken Salad Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 12 reviews

• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 5 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Paula Deen’s chicken salad blends Southern comfort with creamy elegance. Crisp celery, tender chicken, and mayonnaise mingle in a classic recipe that beckons you to savor each delightful bite.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 (3 lb / 1.36 kg) roasted chicken, skin removed, meat picked
• 2 cups red grapes, halved, seedless
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• ½ cup almonds, roasted and salted, chopped
• 1 stalk celery, finely chopped
• 2 tbsps red onion, finely chopped
• 2 tsps curry powder
• ½ lemon, juiced
• kosher salt, to taste
• black pepper, to taste
• optional: lettuce
• optional: tomato, sliced
• optional: whole wheat bread

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Dressing Preparation: Whisk mayonnaise, lemon juice, curry powder, kosher salt, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl until a smooth, uniform consistency is achieved.
2. Ingredient Integration: Gently fold diced cooked chicken, halved red grapes, chopped celery, minced red onion, and toasted almonds into the curry-infused dressing, ensuring even coating without crushing delicate ingredients.
3. Flavor Refinement: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, creating a harmonious balance that highlights the unique flavor profile of the chicken salad.
4. Serving Suggestions: Elevate the dish by assembling as a classic sandwich with whole wheat bread, crisp lettuce, and tomato slices, or serve chilled over a vibrant mixed green salad for a lighter presentation.
5. Chilling and Serving: Refrigerate for 30-45 minutes to allow flavors to meld and intensify, or serve immediately while maintaining optimal temperature and freshness.

Notes

• Chill for Maximum Flavor: Refrigerate the chicken salad for 30-45 minutes to allow the curry dressing to infuse deeply into the ingredients, creating a more complex and harmonious taste profile.
• Toast Almonds Carefully: Lightly toast almonds in a dry skillet to enhance their nutty flavor and add a delightful crunch, being careful not to burn them for the perfect textural contrast.
• Customize Grape Selection: Choose sweet, firm red grapes for a burst of natural sweetness that complements the savory curry dressing and adds a refreshing element to the chicken salad.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste and season incrementally, adding salt and pepper in small amounts to achieve a perfectly balanced flavor without overwhelming the delicate ingredients.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Blending
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 5
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 8 g
• Sodium: 650 mg
• Fat: 30 g
• Saturated Fat: 4.5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 22 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 22 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 24 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg