We’ve always been captivated by the Hotel Arlington Chicken Salad, a timeless favorite that combines juicy chicken with crisp veggies and a zesty dressing. Originating from the historic Hotel Arlington hotel this dish embodies classic American comfort with a sophisticated twist.
Our version keeps it simple yet flavorful drawing from traditional recipes we’ve tested and refined. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or prepping a quick lunch you’ll love how easy it is to recreate this crowd-pleaser at home.
Ingredients
We select premium, fresh ingredients to bring the authentic flavors of our Hotel Arlington Chicken Salad recipe to life, ensuring a perfect balance of juicy textures and zesty tastes that make this dish a timeless favorite.
For the Chicken
To prepare the star of our Hotel Arlington Chicken Salad, we start with these key components:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound total; poach or grill for juicy, tender results)
- 1 teaspoon salt (for seasoning to enhance natural flavors)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground for a subtle kick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing to achieve a golden crust)
For the Salad
Next, we assemble the crisp, vibrant vegetables and add-ins that form the fresh base of our Hotel Arlington Chicken Salad, providing a refreshing crunch and colorful appeal:
- 4 cups mixed greens (such as romaine and spinach; washed and torn for easy mixing)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved for a burst of sweetness and juiciness)
- ½ cup celery (diced finely for added crunch and mild flavor)
- ¼ cup red onion (thinly sliced for a sharp, tangy contrast)
- ¼ cup almonds (sliced and toasted for a nutty, textural element)
For the Dressing
- ½ cup mayonnaise (full-fat for creaminess and rich mouthfeel)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (for a sharp, pungent note)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed for bright acidity)
- 1 teaspoon honey (to balance flavors with natural sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon fresh herbs (such as dill or parsley, chopped finely for aromatic freshness)
Instructions
We make preparing our Hotel Arlington Chicken Salad straightforward and delicious, drawing on fresh ingredients and simple techniques to capture its juicy chicken, crisp vegetables, and tangy dressing for a timeless flavor profile.
Prep the Ingredients
First, we gather and prepare the key components to ensure everything is fresh and ready for assembly. Start by rinsing 2 cups of mixed greens under cold water and patting them dry with a paper towel for a crisp base. Next, dice 1 cup of celery and 1/2 cup of red onion into fine, even pieces to add a satisfying crunch—aim for 1/4-inch cubes for the best texture.
Chop 1 cup of cherry tomatoes in half to release their juicy sweetness, and toast 1/2 cup of almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until golden and fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning. For the dressing, whisk together 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of honey, and 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill in a small bowl until smooth and creamy—this creates a zesty balance that elevates the salad’s flavors.
Cook the Chicken
We focus on cooking the chicken to achieve that tender, juicy texture that defines our Hotel Arlington Chicken Salad. Begin by seasoning 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound total) with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, rubbing it in evenly for full flavor infusion.
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken breasts and sear for 6-7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, flipping once for an even golden-brown crust. Remove from heat, let rest for 5 minutes, and slice into 1/2-inch thick strips to lock in the moist, succulent juices that make this dish so appealing.
Assemble the Salad
Finally, we bring it all together to create a vibrant, refreshing salad that’s perfect for any occasion. In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared mixed greens, celery, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and toasted almonds, tossing gently to distribute the textures evenly.
Add the sliced chicken on top, then drizzle with the creamy dressing and mix everything thoroughly until each bite is coated in its tangy zest—imagine the contrast of crunchy almonds against the soft, juicy chicken for a sensory delight. Serve immediately for the freshest taste, or chill for 10-15 minutes to let the flavors meld further.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Hotel Arlington Chicken Salad with ease and precision, we rely on a few key tools that streamline the process from prepping fresh ingredients to assembling the final dish. Below, we’ve outlined the essential equipment, organized by category for quick reference.
Basic Kitchen Tools
- Cutting board: A sturdy, non-slip board for safely dicing celery, red onion, and halving cherry tomatoes, ensuring clean cuts and efficient prep.
- Chef’s knife: Sharp and reliable for chopping vegetables and herbs; we suggest one with an 8-inch blade for optimal control.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate sets for measuring ingredients like lemon juice, honey, and herbs, guaranteeing the dressing’s perfect balance.
Cooking and Mixing Essentials
- Skillet or frying pan: Non-stick or cast-iron, at least 10 inches in diameter, for searing the chicken to a juicy, golden brown finish.
- Whisk or mixing spoon: Ideal for blending the creamy dressing—combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and other elements smoothly.
- Mixing bowls: A set of medium-sized bowls (one for vegetables and one for the dressing) to keep ingredients organized and prevent cross-contamination.
Additional Items
- Toaster oven or baking sheet: For toasting almonds to add that signature crunch; if using an oven, preheat to 350°F for even results.
- Serving platter or large salad bowl: A wide, shallow bowl to assemble and toss the mixed greens, chicken, and dressing for a vibrant presentation.
By having these items ready, we ensure our Hotel Arlington Chicken Salad preparation is seamless and enjoyable, allowing the flavors to shine through every step.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To simplify your preparation of the Hotel Arlington Chicken Salad and enhance its flavors through melding, we often plan ahead for busy days or gatherings. This approach allows the ingredients to develop deeper tastes while keeping textures fresh and vibrant. Below, we outline step-by-step instructions for making components in advance, ensuring a seamless assembly when you’re ready to serve.
Preparing Ingredients in Advance
We recommend prepping the core elements up to 24 hours ahead to maintain optimal freshness:
- Cook the chicken: Season and sear the boneless, skinless chicken breasts as described in the recipe, then let them cool completely. Shred or dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This step preserves the juicy texture and allows flavors to intensify.
- Chop the vegetables: Rinse and prepare the mixed greens, celery, red onion, and cherry tomatoes. Dice the celery and red onion finely, and halve the cherry tomatoes for even distribution. Place these in separate sealed containers or bags in the fridge to avoid sogginess—fresh vegetables like these retain their crisp crunch when stored properly.
- Toast the almonds: Toast the almonds in advance for that signature nutty aroma. Once cooled, transfer them to a sealed jar or container at room temperature to keep their added crunch without absorbing moisture.
Making the Dressing Ahead
The creamy dressing is ideal for make-ahead preparation, as it benefits from resting to blend flavors perfectly:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, honey, and fresh herbs until smooth.
- Transfer the dressing to a jar with a tight lid and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. This allows the zesty and tangy notes to meld, creating a more flavorful finish when you drizzle it over the salad.
Storage and Reassembly Tips
For best results, focus on proper storage to preserve the dish’s sensory appeal—the juicy chicken paired with crisp vegetables and creamy dressing shines even after waiting.
| Component | Make-Ahead Time | Storage Method | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cooked Chicken | Up to 24 hours | Airtight container in fridge | Keep it covered to prevent drying; reheat gently if needed for serving. |
| Chopped Vegetables | Up to 24 hours | Separate sealed containers in fridge | Pat dry greens and veggies before storing to maintain crisp texture. |
| Toasted Almonds | Up to 48 hours | Airtight jar at room temperature | Avoid refrigeration to prevent softening. |
| Dressing | Up to 48 hours | Sealed jar in fridge | Stir before use to ensure even consistency and enhanced zest. |
When it’s time to assemble, combine the ingredients just before serving to keep the salad vibrant and fresh. In our experience, this Hotel Arlington Chicken Salad make-ahead strategy makes it a go-to for effortless, flavorful meals.
Conclusion
We’re thrilled you’ve explored the Hotel Arlington Chicken Salad with us. This timeless dish offers a perfect mix of simplicity and elegance, elevating everyday meals effortlessly.
It’s not just a recipe—it’s a gateway to creating memorable gatherings that showcase fresh flavors and ease. Let’s make it a staple in our kitchens and enjoy its vibrant taste time and again.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hotel Arlington Chicken Salad?
Hotel Arlington Chicken Salad is a classic American dish from the historic Hotel Arlington, featuring juicy chicken, fresh veggies, and a tangy dressing. It’s a sophisticated take on comfort food, perfect for lunches or gatherings, blending simple ingredients for a flavorful, easy-to-make meal.
What are the key ingredients in Hotel Arlington Chicken Salad?
The main ingredients include boneless, skinless chicken breasts for protein, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, celery, red onion, and toasted almonds for crunch. The dressing is made with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, honey, and fresh herbs, creating a creamy, zesty finish that balances flavors for an authentic taste.
How do you prepare Hotel Arlington Chicken Salad?
Start by seasoning and searing chicken in olive oil until juicy. Prep veggies by rinsing greens, dicing celery and onion, halving tomatoes, and toasting almonds. Mix everything together and drizzle with a dressing of mayonnaise, mustard, lemon juice, honey, and herbs. Assemble just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
What equipment is needed to make Hotel Arlington Chicken Salad?
You’ll need basic tools like a cutting board, sharp knife, and measuring cups. For cooking, use a skillet for the chicken, a whisk for the dressing, and mixing bowls to organize ingredients. A toaster oven for almonds and a serving platter add convenience, making preparation straightforward and efficient.
Can I make Hotel Arlington Chicken Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep components up to 24 hours in advance. Cook and store chicken, chop veggies, toast almonds, and make the dressing ahead for flavor blending. Keep ingredients separate to maintain freshness, then combine just before serving to preserve the salad’s crispness and vibrancy.
How should I store Hotel Arlington Chicken Salad?
Store prepared components in airtight containers in the fridge: cooked chicken for up to 2 days, chopped veggies for 1-2 days, and dressing for up to 3 days. Assemble the full salad no more than a few hours before serving to keep it fresh and prevent sogginess from the dressing.
Why is Hotel Arlington Chicken Salad so popular?
It’s popular for its blend of juicy chicken, crisp veggies, and creamy dressing, offering a sophisticated yet comforting flavor. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, it’s versatile for quick meals or events, and its origins from the historic Hotel Arlington add a touch of nostalgia and appeal.