Celery salad with chicken breast

Delicious Celery Salad with Chicken Breast

If you are looking for an appetizer recipe that will impress at any festive meal or gathering with friends, celery salad with chicken breast is the perfect choice! This recipe combines the crunchy texture of celery with the juiciness of chicken breast, all dressed in a creamy mayonnaise that brings a touch of freshness and flavor. You will find that it is a simple, quick, and extremely versatile recipe that can be adapted to your preferences.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 small celery
- 1 chicken breast
- 4 tablespoons of mayonnaise (you can adjust the amount according to your preference)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- A sprig of rosemary
- A teaspoon of paprika
- Juice of half a lemon

Let’s begin our culinary adventure!

Step 1: Preparing the chicken breast
The first step is to take care of the chicken breast. Cut it into thin strips to reduce cooking time. Place the chicken strips in a pot of cold water and add a bit of salt, rosemary, and paprika to infuse the meat with delicious flavors. Bring the water to a boil and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Don’t forget to remove the foam that forms on the surface – this step will ensure a clear and clean broth.

Step 2: Cooling and cutting the chicken
Once the chicken breast is cooked, remove it from the pot and let it cool on a cutting board. Once cooled, cut it into smaller cubes for perfect integration into the salad.

Step 3: Preparing the mayonnaise
While the chicken breast cools, it’s time to prepare the mayonnaise. To make the mayonnaise, boil a hard-boiled egg yolk (about 10 minutes). Once the egg has cooled, peel it and place it in a bowl. Add a tablespoon of mustard, a bit of oil (the amount depends on how much mayonnaise you want, but start with 100 ml), and the juice of half a lemon. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to emulsify the ingredients until you achieve a smooth and creamy mixture. You can adjust the taste with salt and pepper according to your preferences.

Step 4: Grating the celery
Now let’s take care of the celery! Peel the celery and grate it using a fine grater. The crunchy texture of the celery will add a pleasant contrast to the salad. Make sure to mix it well with the chicken breast and mayonnaise to achieve a uniform combination.

Step 5: Mixing the ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the grated celery, chicken strips, and prepared mayonnaise. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Gently mix everything, ensuring that each ingredient is well coated with mayonnaise.

Step 6: Resting the salad
To allow the flavors to meld, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the salad chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This step is essential as it will make all the flavors blend and become even more delicious.

Step 7: Serving
To add a touch of elegance, serve the salad in parmesan cups. You can create cups from melted parmesan cheese in the oven (place grated cheese on a baking sheet and bake until melted and golden). Add the celery salad with chicken breast into the cups and enjoy an appetizer that will attract all eyes.

Nutritional benefits
This salad is a healthy option, full of protein from the chicken breast, while celery provides a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It can be an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. Additionally, the mayonnaise can be adapted with healthier versions, such as avocado mayonnaise or yogurt, to reduce calories.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can replace the chicken breast with turkey or even canned tuna, depending on your preferences.

2. How can I make the salad spicier?
Add a few drops of hot sauce or chopped chili pepper to the mayonnaise for a more intense flavor.

3. What can I serve the salad with?
This salad pairs wonderfully with a slice of toasted bread or crackers. You can serve it alongside a glass of white wine or a refreshing cocktail.

Possible variations
To bring a touch of originality, you can add other ingredients: toasted nuts for crunch, apples for a sweet-sour taste, or olives for a salty note. These variations will turn each serving into a unique culinary experience.

I conclude this recipe by telling you that celery salad with chicken breast is not only simple and delicious, but it is also a versatile option for any occasion. Prepare it with love and enjoy the appreciation of your loved ones!