Mandarin Orange Chicken Salad – It was a lazy Sunday afternoon when I stumbled upon the idea of the Mandarin Orange Chicken Salad. As I pounded the chicken to a uniform thickness, the anticipation of creating a wholesome yet vibrant dish grew within me. Little did I know that this salad would soon become a family dearest, cherished not just for its taste but for the memories it made.
The first time I served it to my husband and child, their eyes widened with excitement. The juicy mandarin oranges, perfectly complemented by the tender chicken, were an instant hit. Each bite seemed “to narrate a story of sweet and savory coming together, dancing on our palates. It was at that moment that I knew – this recipe was a keeper.
What makes this Mandarin Orange Chicken Salad special?
What sets the Mandarin Orange Chicken Salad apart is its impeccable balance. It seamlessly fuses the hearty satisfaction of a main course with the refreshing allure of a salad. The roasted chicken, full of succulent flavors forms a base while the refreshing addition of juicy Cutie Mandarin Oranges brings a vibrant zest. The combination of creamy mayo and Stone Ground Dijon Mustard acts as a binding element enhancing each ingredient and giving the dish a creamy texture. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a get-together, with friends this recipe guarantees a gratifying adventure.
What You Need To Make This Mandarin Orange Chicken Salad Recipe?
Chicken: The key to this recipe is choosing the chicken. Opt for boneless skinless chicken breasts for convenience and a neater presentation. By pounding the chicken to an even thickness you ensure that it cooks evenly resulting in tender and juicy meat that’s perfect for shredding or chopping.
Olive Oil: Drizzling some olive oil over the chicken before roasting not only enhances its flavor. Also creates a beautiful caramelized exterior. Use high-quality virgin olive oil to add a subtle yet distinctive undertone.
Seasoning: The magical combination of salt and pepper can truly transform a dish. Generously season the chicken before roasting to infuse each bite with goodness.
Celery: Chopped celery adds a crunch to the salad bringing texture and a mild earthy flavor. Remember to wash and trim the celery stalks before chopping them for the freshest taste.
Mayo: Mayonnaise acts as the base of the salad providing richness and binding all the ingredients together. Choose a mayo, with flavors that won’t overpower other elements.
Stone Ground Dijon Mustard: The star of our dressing is this ingredient that offers a blend of slight graininess. The tangy flavors of the dressing perfectly complement the sweetness of mandarin oranges adding depth, to the taste of the salad.
Citrus Zest: The Cutie Mandarin Oranges are like gems in this recipe infusing it with a burst of vibrant citrus flavor. Choose mandarin oranges that are ripe, plump and easy to peel for best results.
Salt and Pepper: While seasoning is incorporated at stages throughout the recipe never underestimate the impact of those adjustments. Fine-tune the salt and pepper, before serving to ensure a well-balanced flavor profile.
Steps To Make Mandarin Orange Chicken Salad:
Chicken:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 2: Brush a bit of olive oil, over the chicken breasts and generously season them with salt and pepper.
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Step 3: Place the chicken in a roasting dish. Roast for about 25 to 30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep in mind that cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken.
Step 4: Allow the roasted chicken to cool down before cutting or shredding it into bite pieces.
Chicken Salad:
Step 5: In a mixing bowl combine the chopped chicken and celery.
Step 6: Add mayonnaise and Stone Ground Dijon Mustard to the bowl. Season, with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
Step 7: Gently mix all ingredients together until well combined.
Step 8: Lastly, add a touch of deliciousness with Cutie Mandarin Oranges. Carefully incorporate them into the salad without crushing their segments.
Tip:
Looking to add a burst of flavor to your Mandarin Orange Chicken Salad? Don’t let that zesty goodness go unused! Before peeling your Cutie Mandarin Oranges gently grate the layer of one orange to collect its zest. This zest contains fruit oils, which are filled with an intense citrus aroma and taste.
Once you’ve combined all the ingredients for your salad sprinkle a pinch of the citrus zest on top. This small addition will infuse your salad with a hint of citrus creating a balance between the juicy oranges and tender chicken. It’s an effective technique that elevates your salad from good, to outstanding leaving your taste buds pleasantly surprised with every mouthful.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?
Definitely! This Mandarin Orange Chicken Salad Recipe is a fantastic way to give the leftover cooked chicken a delicious twist.
What can I substitute for Stone Ground Dijon Mustard?
If you’re looking for an alternative, Dijon mustard or even honey mustard can provide a slightly different taste.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the components of the salad separately. Then bring them together just before serving to ensure the best texture and flavor.
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Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Mandarin Orange Chicken Salad Recipe
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 2 lbs. Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (pounded to equal thickness)
- Olive Oil
- Salt and Pepper
Chicken Salad:
- 4 Celery Stalks chopped
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp. Stone Ground Dijon Mustard
- Salt and Pepper to taste
- 5 Cutie Mandarin Oranges peeled and segmented
Instructions
To make the chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 450ºF (232ºC).
- Drizzle some olive oil, over the chicken breasts. Season them generously with salt and pepper.
- Place the chicken in a roasting dish. Roast it for about 25 to 30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165ºF (74ºC). Remember, cooking time may vary depending on how thick the chicken breasts are.
- Let the roasted chicken cool down. Shred or chop it into bite pieces.
For the chicken salad:
- In a bowl combine the chopped chicken with some celery.
- Add mayonnaise and Stone Ground Dijon Mustard to the bowl and season, with salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Gently mix all the ingredients together until well combined.
- Finally, fold in some peeled, segmented Cutie Mandarin Oranges, being careful not to crush them.
- Enjoy your delicious Mandarin Orange Chicken Salad!
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
