RestaurantsDriftaway CafeChicken Salad Recipe

Chicken Salad Recipe

Inspired by Driftaway Cafe
Time35m
Serves4

Make Chicken Salad Recipe in just 35m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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Salad

Method

Salad

1

Prepare the chicken: if you don’t have cooked chicken, poach 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts in enough water to cover with a pinch of salt for 12–15 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove, let rest 5 minutes, then shred or dice into roughly 1/2-inch pieces. Allow to cool slightly.

2

Place the cooled chicken in a large mixing bowl. Add the sliced celery, halved grapes, finely diced red onion, chopped toasted nuts, and chopped parsley.

3

Season the mixture with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. Toss gently to combine so the solids are evenly distributed before adding dressing.

Dressing

4

In a medium bowl or jar, combine 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon honey, and 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar.

5

Add 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder and 1/4 teaspoon celery seed (if using). Whisk or shake vigorously until the dressing is smooth and slightly thick. Taste and adjust seasoning: add more lemon for brightness, honey for sweetness, or salt/pepper as needed.

6

If the dressing seems too thick, thin with 1–2 teaspoons cold water or additional lemon juice until it reaches desired consistency.

Assemble & Serve

7

Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture. Fold gently with a spatula until everything is evenly coated. Do not overmix to preserve grape and nut textures.

8

Taste and adjust final seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired.

9

Chill for at least 30 minutes for flavors to meld (optional). Serve over mixed salad greens, spoon into croissants or between slices of bread, or enjoy straight from a bowl. Garnish with extra chopped parsley and lemon wedges if desired.