Dr. Gourmet Newsletter

"Chicken salad has a certain glamour about it. Like the little black dress, it is chic and adaptable anywhere."
-Laurie Colwin, Author

Chef Tim Says....

Indeed, the simple, humble chicken salad can be taken in almost any direction, from the classic to the Indian, from Mexican to Southeast Asian. This week's featured recipe uses Sriracha to give it a certain zing, but other variations don't just play with the spices - they might also replace the binding agent, whether that's mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, or avocado.

Use your imagination and make your own delicious variation.

Sriracha Chicken Salad

Cook the onions lightly. There is a balancing point when the onions lose their harshness but still have a bit of bite. It is the same point when the onions are not firm, but not wilted either. Likewise, the corn should be cooked just a bit: not browned and not mushy, but still with the fresh sweetness and a bit of texture.

Chicken Salad

Chicken salad is easy. I love this healthy version with the gently poached chicken breasts and fresh garlic. If you want a more authentic chicken salad replace the garlic (or add) a tablespoon (or two) of sweet pickle relish. Heinz makes a wonderful relish that my brother first introduced me to called India Relish that is particularly good. Pickle relish does have about 125 mg of sodium in each tablespoon so if you are on a low-sodium diet, it might be good to reduce the added salt a little.

Chicken Guacamole Salad

I believe that great chicken salad begins with poaching the chicken gently so that it is well cooked but tender. Savory, tender chicken combined with the great flavors of classic guacamole makes a great entrée salad, fantastic sandwiches, or even as a filling in tacos.

Mediterranean Chicken Salad

This recipe is really easy. Even though there's a lot of ingredients, the hardest part is slicing everything to get it ready for the grill pan. Don't feel restricted by the veggies -- you can use the equivalent amount of anything you want. If you're in a rush, using some of the pre-sliced veggies that are now in the salad / lettuce section of grocery stores can be a real time saver.

Rice Noodle Chicken Salad

I love rice noodles. The texture is great and they are quick to cook. There are a few tricks though. One is to not overcook them or they will become gummy. Second is that they will stick together if not oiled or sauced almost immediately, especially if you're going to use them in a salad like this recipe.

The Dr. Gourmet Diet for
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More Chicken Salad Variations

Mango Chicken Salad
Chinese Chicken Salad
Spicy Corn and Chicken Salad
Southwest Chicken & Corn Salad
Curried Chicken Salad
Alfredo Chicken Salad
Tarragon Chicken Salad
Chicken Salad with Avocado
Asian Peanut Chicken Salad

Your day-by-day guide to a Mediterranean diet

Dr. Tim Harlan has translated Mediterranean Diet principles for the American kitchen, with recipes that include Taco Salad, Red Beans and Rice, and Fettuccine Alfredo. With Just Tell Me What to Eat! you'll find out how familiar foods that your family will love can be great for you.

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