If you’re craving a chicken salad with a bold kick, the Jalapeno Holly from Chicken Salad Chick is a game-changer. This recipe blends tender chicken with creamy dressing and just the right amount of spicy jalapenos to wake up your taste buds. It’s perfect for those who love a little heat without overpowering the classic flavors of chicken salad.
Ingredients
To craft the perfect Chicken Salad Chick Recipe Jalapeno Holly, we need to gather fresh and flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in balancing creaminess and spice with tender chicken.
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or finely chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced thinly
Dressing Ingredients
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise (preferably full-fat for creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Jalapeño Holly Topping Ingredients
- 2 jalapeños, seeded and diced finely (adjust quantity for desired heat)
- 1/4 cup smoked gouda cheese, shredded
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1/2 lime
| Ingredient Type | Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Ingredients | Cooked chicken | 3 cups | Shredded or finely chopped |
| Celery | 1/2 cup | Diced | |
| Red bell pepper | 1/4 cup | Finely chopped | |
| Green onions | 1/4 cup | Thinly sliced | |
| Dressing Ingredients | Mayonnaise | 3/4 cup | Prefer full-fat |
| Sweet pickle relish | 1 tablespoon | ||
| Dijon mustard | 1 teaspoon | ||
| Garlic powder | 1/2 teaspoon | ||
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon | ||
| Black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon | Freshly ground | |
| Jalapeño Holly Topping | Jalapeños | 2 | Seeded, diced |
| Smoked gouda cheese | 1/4 cup | Shredded | |
| Fresh cilantro | 1 tablespoon | Chopped | |
| Lime juice | Juice of 1/2 lime | Freshly squeezed |
These ingredients together create the signature bold yet creamy flavor of our Jalapeno Holly chicken salad. The combination gives us the classic chicken salad base with a spicy and smoky twist that is unmistakably delicious.
Equipment Needed
To prepare the Chicken Salad Chick Recipe Jalapeno Holly with precision and ease, having the right equipment is essential. Below is a list of the key tools we use to achieve the perfect texture and bold flavor balance in this spicy chicken salad.
- Mixing Bowl: A large bowl to combine the cooked chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy dressing evenly.
- Chef’s Knife: For dicing the jalapeños, celery, red bell pepper, and green onions with accuracy.
- Cutting Board: A sturdy surface to safely chop all fresh ingredients.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure exact amounts of mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, sweet pickle relish, and spices.
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon: To gently fold the dressing into the chicken mixture without crushing the ingredients.
- Grater: For shredding the smoked gouda cheese finely to blend seamlessly into the salad.
- Citrus Juicer: To extract fresh lime juice efficiently, which brightens the flavor profile.
- Serving Dish or Container: To present or store the salad, keeping it fresh before serving.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowl | Combine all ingredients |
| Chef’s Knife | Dice fresh vegetables and jalapeños |
| Cutting Board | Safe chopping surface |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Accurate ingredient measurements |
| Spatula/Wooden Spoon | Mix ingredients gently |
| Grater | Shred smoked gouda cheese |
| Citrus Juicer | Extract fresh lime juice |
| Serving Dish/Container | Serve or store finished salad |
Using these tools will help us maintain the integrity of each ingredient and enhance the overall Jalapeno Holly chicken salad experience. Let’s ensure our workspace is organized and all equipment is at hand before starting to mix these bold and creamy flavors.
Prep Work
To create the perfect Chicken Salad Chick Recipe Jalapeno Holly, thorough preparation is essential. Let’s break down the key steps to ensure every ingredient shines with bold and fresh flavors.
Preparing the Chicken
Start with 3 cups of cooked chicken, shredded or finely diced to provide the ideal texture for our chicken salad base. We recommend using poached or roasted chicken breast for a tender and juicy result.
- If using raw chicken:
- Cook the chicken thoroughly until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Allow it to cool completely before shredding or dicing.
- Aim for uniform pieces about ½ inch in size to enhance even flavor distribution.
| Step | Detail | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Cook chicken | Poach or roast until 165°F | Poaching keeps chicken moist |
| Cool chicken | Completely cool to room temp | Prevents dressing from melting |
| Shred/dice | Uniform ½ inch pieces | Ensures smooth texture |
Chopping the Jalapeño and Other Veggies
Fresh vegetables give this salad its signature crunch and spicy kick. We work carefully to balance heat with flavor.
- Use 1 to 2 fresh jalapeños, depending on how bold you want the spice.
- Remove seeds and membranes for milder heat.
- Chop finely to evenly distribute the flavor without overpowering.
- Dice the celery, red bell pepper, and green onions into small, even pieces (about ¼ inch).
- Handle the jalapeños with care, washing your hands immediately after to avoid irritation.
| Vegetable | Prep Details | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Jalapeño | Remove seeds, finely chop | Adds signature spicy kick |
| Celery | Dice into ¼ inch pieces | Adds crunch and freshness |
| Red Bell Pepper | Dice into ¼ inch pieces | Adds sweetness and color |
| Green Onions | Chop finely | Adds mild onion flavor |
“Chopping ingredients uniformly not only improves texture but helps the bold flavors meld effortlessly in our Jalapeno Holly chicken salad.”
With the chicken and veggies prepped meticulously, we are ready to combine these components into a creamy, spicy masterpiece.
Directions
Follow these detailed steps to craft the bold and creamy Chicken Salad Chick Recipe Jalapeno Holly. Precision and care in each phase will bring out the signature flavors we love.
Making the Chicken Salad Base
- Prepare the chicken: Using 3 cups of poached or roasted chicken breast, ensure the meat is fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F. Allow it to cool completely for optimal shredding or dicing.
- Dice the vegetables: Finely chop ⅓ cup celery, ⅓ cup red bell pepper, and 2 tablespoons green onions. Aim for uniform pieces to balance texture and flavor evenly.
- Combine the base ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, stir together the cooked chicken, diced vegetables, ½ cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper.
- Mix gently: Use a spatula to fold the ingredients, maintaining the chicken’s tender texture. The result should be a creamy and well-incorporated base with classic chicken salad flavors.
Preparing the Jalapeño Holly Topping
- Handle jalapeños carefully: Dice 1 medium jalapeño, removing seeds to moderate heat or leaving them in for extra spice. Use gloves to avoid skin irritation.
- Grate smoked gouda cheese: Shred ½ cup smoked gouda for a subtle smoky note that complements the spiciness.
- Chop fresh cilantro: Finely mince 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro for a bright herbal lift.
- Juice the lime: Extract 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice using a citrus juicer to add tangy brightness.
- Combine topping ingredients: In a small bowl, mix the jalapeños, smoked gouda, cilantro, and lime juice until evenly distributed.
Combining the Salad and Topping
- Add topping to base: Spoon the jalapeño holly mixture over the prepared chicken salad base.
- Fold gently: Using a spatula, gently fold the topping into the chicken salad to combine the creamy base with the bold spicy elements.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste and add more salt or lime juice if needed to enhance the balance of heat and creaminess.
- Serve or chill: Transfer the finished salad to a serving dish or airtight container. Chill for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld before serving.
| Step | Action | Key Points |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cook and cool chicken | Use poached/roasted, 165°F temp |
| 2 | Dice vegetables | Uniform chopping |
| 3 | Mix base ingredients | Creamy texture, balanced flavor |
| 4 | Prepare jalapeño topping | Control heat, fresh bright notes |
| 5 | Combine base and topping | Gentle folding to maintain texture |
| 6 | Adjust seasoning and chill | Taste for balance, chill before serving |
Serving Suggestions
The Chicken Salad Chick Recipe Jalapeno Holly offers a vibrant flavor profile perfect for versatile serving options. Here are creative ways to enjoy this bold and creamy chicken salad:
- Classic Sandwich
Spread a generous layer of Jalapeno Holly chicken salad between two slices of your favorite bread. We recommend using a toasted brioche or whole-grain bread to complement the creamy texture and add a subtle crunch.
- Lettuce Wraps
For a low-carb option, serve the chicken salad wrapped in large, crisp lettuce leaves such as romaine or butter lettuce. This presentation highlights the fresh ingredients and lets the jalapeño kick shine.
- Cracker or Crostini Topping
Spoon the salad onto buttery crackers or toasted crostini for a perfect appetizer or snack. The combination of creamy chicken salad and crunchy base creates a delightful contrast.
- Stuffed Avocado
Halve an avocado and remove the pit, then fill the center with the jalapeño-infused chicken salad. This serving style adds creaminess and a boost of healthy fats, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Salad Bed
Serve a scoop of the Jalapeno Holly chicken salad over a bed of mixed greens or baby spinach. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette to complement the smoky and spicy notes.
| Serving Option | Description | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Sandwich | Bread of choice, toasted preferred | Texture contrast, easy handheld |
| Lettuce Wraps | Crisp large leaves for wrapping | Low-carb, fresh, crisp |
| Cracker or Crostini | Bite-sized toasted base | Appetizer-friendly, crunchy |
| Stuffed Avocado | Halved avocado filled with salad | Creamy, healthy fats |
| Salad Bed | Served over mixed greens | Light, fresh, balanced |
Pro Tip: Chill the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and intensify.
We also suggest pairing the Jalapeno Holly chicken salad with refreshing beverages such as iced tea with lemon or a sparkling water infused with lime for a balanced meal experience.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
To keep our Chicken Salad Chick Recipe Jalapeno Holly fresh and flavorful, proper storage is essential. Follow these tips to maintain the vibrant taste and creamy texture for days after preparation.
Storing Jalapeno Holly Chicken Salad
- Transfer the chicken salad into an airtight container immediately after preparation. This prevents exposure to air which can dry out the salad and dull the fresh flavors.
- Store the container in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below.
- Consume within 3 to 4 days for optimal freshness and safety.
| Storage Condition | Time Frame | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerated (40°F/4°C) | 3 to 4 days | Keep in airtight container |
| Freezer (-0°F/-18°C) | Not recommended | May alter texture and flavor |
Freezing the Jalapeno Holly chicken salad is not recommended due to the creamy dressing and fresh vegetables which can become watery and lose texture upon thawing.
Make-Ahead Preparation Tips
- We can prepare the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Cook, cool completely, and shred or dice the chicken before storing it separately in the fridge.
- Chop all fresh vegetables and herbs, including jalapeños, celery, red bell pepper, and cilantro. Keep them in separate airtight containers or sealed plastic bags to preserve their crunch and brightness.
- Assemble the chicken salad just before serving by combining chilled chicken, vegetables, dressing, and cheese. This ensures each ingredient maintains its texture and the flavors blend ideally.
- For the best integration of flavors, allow the composed salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This resting period lets the spicy jalapeños and smoky gouda permeate the creamy base.
“Chill before serving is a key step for our Jalapeno Holly Chicken Salad to achieve that signature bold and creamy flavor.”
Tips for Transporting
- If taking this salad to a picnic or event, keep the salad chilled in an insulated cooler.
- Pack any bread, crackers, or lettuce separately and combine right before eating to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.
Applying these storage and make-ahead tips keeps our Chicken Salad Chick Recipe Jalapeno Holly deliciously ready whenever we want it.
Conclusion
The Jalapeno Holly chicken salad is a fantastic way to spice up your classic chicken salad routine. Its vibrant flavors and creamy texture make it a versatile dish that works beautifully for lunches, gatherings, or quick meals. With the right ingredients and a few simple steps, we can easily bring this bold, smoky, and refreshing recipe to our table.
Whether served as a sandwich, on crackers, or in a lettuce wrap, this chicken salad delivers a satisfying kick that keeps us coming back for more. Keeping it fresh and properly stored ensures every bite stays delicious. Let’s enjoy this flavorful twist and make it a staple in our recipe collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Jalapeno Holly chicken salad unique?
The Jalapeno Holly chicken salad combines tender chicken and creamy dressing with spicy jalapeños and smoked gouda cheese. This blend adds a bold, smoky, and spicy twist to the classic chicken salad flavor.
What ingredients are needed for the Jalapeno Holly chicken salad?
Key ingredients include cooked chicken, diced celery, red bell pepper, green onions, mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, jalapeños, smoked gouda, fresh cilantro, lime juice, salt, and black pepper.
What equipment is essential to make this chicken salad?
You’ll need a mixing bowl, chef’s knife, cutting board, measuring cups and spoons, spatula or wooden spoon, grater, citrus juicer, and a serving dish for easy and effective preparation.
How should the chicken be prepared for the salad?
Use poached or roasted chicken breast cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F. Let it cool completely before shredding or dicing for the best texture and flavor.
How do I add the spicy kick to the salad?
Freshly chopped jalapeños are added to the salad, balanced with creamy dressing and smoked gouda to give a smoky, spicy flavor without overpowering the dish.
What are some serving suggestions for this chicken salad?
Serve it as a sandwich, in lettuce wraps, on crackers or crostini, stuffed in avocados, or over a bed of fresh salad greens for variety.
How long should I chill the chicken salad before serving?
Chilling the salad for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld and creates a better taste experience.
How do I store leftovers to keep the salad fresh?
Store the chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C) and consume within 3 to 4 days. Avoid freezing to prevent texture changes.
Can I prepare the chicken salad ahead of time?
Yes, cook and store the chicken separately and chop vegetables in advance in airtight containers. Assemble the salad just before serving for best freshness and texture.
What is a good drink pairing with Jalapeno Holly chicken salad?
Refreshing drinks like iced tea with lemon or sparkling water infused with lime complement the bold and creamy flavors perfectly.