If you’ve ever been lucky enough to bite into a Newk’s chicken salad sandwich, you know there’s something special about it. It’s creamy, savory, and loaded with just the right amount of satisfying crunch.
The good news? You don’t have to visit a restaurant to enjoy this classic. Let’s explore the secrets to crafting the perfect Newk’s chicken salad in your own kitchen!
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Key Takeaways
- Newk’s chicken salad is a beloved classic for its creamy texture, mix of flavors, and satisfying crunch.
- You can easily recreate this deli favorite at home with a few simple ingredients.
- Using high-quality ingredients and understanding flavor balance is crucial to a fantastic result.
What Makes a Great Newk’s Style Chicken Salad Recipe?
Before we dive into recipes, let’s break down the elements that make this salad so irresistible:
- The Star: Chicken Rotisserie chicken offers ultimate convenience while poaching your own gives you more control over flavor and texture. Either works!
- The Crunch Factor: Celery, grapes, and pecans deliver that delightful textural contrast.
- Creamy Delight: Classic recipes lean heavily on mayonnaise, but Greek yogurt offers a lighter, tangier alternative.
- Seasoning is Everything: The perfect blend of salt, pepper, and other spices ties the whole dish together. Don’t be afraid to experiment!
Newk’s Chicken Salad Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked Chicken | 2 cups | Shredded or diced |
| Celery | 1/2 cup | Finely diced |
| Red Grapes | 1/2 cup | Halved |
| Pecans | 1/4 cup | Chopped |
| Mayonnaise (or Greek Yogurt) | 1/2 cup | Choose your preference |
| Lemon Juice | 1 tbsp | Freshly squeezed |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp | |
| Black Pepper | 1/4 tsp | |
| Optional Seasonings | To taste | Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, etc. |
Newk’s Chicken Salad Instructions
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the Newk’s Chicken Salad instructions from the above recipe:
- Prep the Chicken:
- This recipe offers flexibility. You can use either rotisserie chicken or poached chicken.
- Rotisserie Chicken: This is the quicker and easier option. Simply remove the skin and shred the chicken using forks or your fingers.
- Poached Chicken: This method gives you more control over flavor and texture.
- Place boneless, skinless chicken breasts (around 1 pound) in a pot and cover with cold water. Add a bay leaf, peppercorns, and a pinch of salt for extra flavor (optional). Bring the water to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken cool slightly, then shred or dice it.
- This recipe offers flexibility. You can use either rotisserie chicken or poached chicken.
- Chop and Combine:
- Wash and finely dice your celery.
- Wash and halve your red grapes.
- Roughly chop your pecans.
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded or diced chicken, chopped celery, halved grapes, and chopped pecans. Toss everything together to ensure even distribution.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt, if using), lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
- Optional Flavor Boost: Here’s where you can personalize your dressing! Feel free to add a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or any other seasonings you enjoy that would complement the chicken salad. Start with a small amount and taste as you go, adding more if desired.
- Mix and Chill:
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture in a large bowl.
- Use a spatula to gently fold everything together until the chicken salad is evenly coated in the dressing.
- Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally an hour or more.
- Chilling allows the flavors to meld and develop, resulting in a more cohesive and delicious chicken salad.
Tips:
- Taste your chicken salad after chilling and adjust seasonings as needed.
- You can use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment on low speed to combine the dressing and chicken mixture if you prefer a more uniform texture.
- For a creamier result, use more mayonnaise or Greek yogurt. However, keep in mind that Greek yogurt will add a slightly tangy flavor compared to mayonnaise.
Recipe: Classic Newk’s Chicken Salad
Want a foolproof recipe? This is a great starting point, and you can always customize it from here!
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked Chicken | 2 cups | Rotisserie or Poached |
| Celery | 1/2 cup | Finely diced |
| Red Grapes | 1/2 cup | Halved |
| Pecans | 1/4 cup | Chopped |
| Mayonnaise | 1/2 cup | Or Greek Yogurt |
| Lemon Juice | 1 tbsp | Freshly squeezed |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp | |
| Black Pepper | 1/4 tsp |
Instructions: Follow the step-by-step instructions above.
Newk’s Chicken Salad Recipe Variations
The best thing about chicken salad is its versatility! Here are some ideas:
- Spice it Up: Add diced jalapeno, a dash of hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Herb-Infused: Fresh dill, tarragon, or chives add a bright, fresh dimension.
- Sweet Twist: Swap grapes for dried cranberries.
- Nutty Alternatives: Try walnuts or slivered almonds instead of pecans.
Newk’s Chicken Salad Storing and Meal Prep Ideas
- Staying Fresh: Your delicious chicken salad will last about 3-4 days in the refrigerator, stored in an airtight container.
- Freeze with Caution: While technically possible, chicken salad containing mayonnaise doesn’t always thaw with the best texture. If freezing, opt for a yogurt-based recipe for better results.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This is where chicken salad shines! Prep a big batch on the weekend and enjoy it for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.
Newk’s Chicken Salad Nutritional Information
Chicken salad can be part of a healthy diet, but let’s break down what’s in a typical serving:
| Calories | Protein | Fat | Carbs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Approx. 350 per cup | 25g | 20g | 10g |
Is Newk’s Chicken Salad Healthy?
The answer, like most things nutrition-related, is “it depends.” Here’s what to consider:
- Portion Control: Even the healthiest food can be unhealthy in excessive amounts.
- Bread Matters: A whole-wheat wrap is a far better choice than a buttery croissant.
- Mayo vs. Yogurt: Greek yogurt cuts fat and calories significantly.
- Customization is Key: More veggies, less mayo…the power is in your hands!
FAQs
Can I use canned chicken for Newk’s chicken salad?
Technically, yes. But the flavor and texture will be noticeably different from fresh chicken.
What kind of grapes are best in Newk’s chicken salad?
Red grapes are classic, with a nice pop of sweetness! Green grapes work too.
How can I make Newk’s chicken salad less mayonnaise-heavy?
Start by using half mayo, and half Greek yogurt. If you still want it creamier, add a little more mayo at a time until it reaches the texture you enjoy.
Is Newk’s chicken salad gluten-free?
If served on gluten-free bread or in a lettuce wrap, yes! Just be sure there are no gluten-containing ingredients snuck into your dressing or add-ins.
Is there a vegetarian alternative to Newk’s chicken salad?
Absolutely! Swap the chicken for chickpeas or crumbled firm tofu. Seasonings stay mostly the same!
What can I add to a chicken salad for more flavor?
Get creative! Diced bell pepper, a sprinkle of curry powder, chopped fresh parsley…the possibilities are endless. Experiment to find your flavor favorites.
Can I make Newk’s chicken salad ahead of time for a party?
Definitely! It’s even better with a little time to chill. Make it a day in advance for optimal flavor and less stress on party day.
Newk’s Chicken Salad Recipe Conclusion
Whether you’re a diehard fan of Newk’s chicken salad or just a lover of this classic dish, the beauty lies in its adaptability.
With a solid foundation and understanding of the importance of quality ingredients, you can take this recipe in many directions. Don’t be afraid to experiment, make it your own, and above all, enjoy every delicious bite!
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