On a whim I decided to try and recreate a chicken salad that I have not tasted in over a decade. They used to make it at a natural foods store and restaurant in Marietta, Ohio. Although they have been out of business for years, I used to love their food. Their chicken salad was especially good spread on their warm, soft whole wheat rolls….sorry, I started drifting down memory lane.
Although very different from my other favorite chicken salad recipe , this chicken salad is also easy to make. Unlike the chunky, fruity salad that I often make, this chicken salad is smooth by comparison and spreads easily. Carrots give the salad a colorful, cheery appearance and a touch of sweetness.
Does it taste like what I remember? I can’t say for certain, but it is really delicious. In fact, if I am honest, I think I liked my version better.
I do know that carrots are not a common ingredient in most chicken salads. My husband was more than a little skeptical about my putting carrots in the salad when I was making it. So, I made him try it as soon as I finished it. He said it was “really good” and planned to take it in his lunch the next day…high praise from my husband. Of course, I can’t believe he doesn’t ever remember eating the original chicken salad from the restaurant. He says the only thing that he really remembers eating from there was their blackberry pie….they did have REALLY good blackberry pie.
Chicken Salad with Carrots
Ingredients
- 1 full or 2 split boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked OR any equivalent amount of cooked chicken
- 2 med. to large carrots, peeled
- 2 stalks celery
- 1/2 small onion, finely minced
- 1/2 c. +/- homemade mayonnaise or Miracle Whip salad dressing
- white pepper, to taste
- season salt, to taste
Instructions
- Cut chicken, carrots, and celery into large pieces so they fit in a grinder or a food processor.
- Process (or grind) until all very finely chopped.
- Place the processed ingredients in a mixing bowl.
- Stir in onion.
- Slowly add mayonnaise or salad dressing until desired consistency is achieved, adding more than listed if necessary.
- Taste.
- Add season salt and white pepper to taste.
Notes
Old Bay Seasoning may be substituted for salt and pepper for a different flavor/kick to the salad.