We’ve always been huge fans of Straub’s Chicken Salad, a timeless favorite that blends tender chicken with crisp veggies and zesty flavors for a refreshing twist on classic American fare. It’s the perfect go-to for quick lunches or summer gatherings, packing a punch of taste without the fuss.
In our kitchen, we’ve simplified this beloved recipe so you can recreate it effortlessly at home. Join us as we dive into what makes this salad a staple in our meal rotation—healthy, versatile, and downright delicious.
Ingredients
To bring our simplified take on Straub’s Chicken Salad to your kitchen, we start with fresh, high-quality ingredients that capture the essence of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and zesty flavors. We’ve organized this list in the order you’ll use them, including prep specifics for accuracy and ease.
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced into bite-sized pieces (we suggest using rotisserie chicken for convenience and added flavor)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise, full-fat for creaminess (opt for a brand without added sugars to keep it authentic to the original)
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped (about 2 stalks, for that essential crunch that balances the salad’s texture)
- 1/4 cup red onion, minced (provides a sharp, zesty kick; soak in cold water for 5 minutes if you prefer a milder taste)
- 1/4 cup fresh grapes, halved (seedless varieties work best; they add a sweet contrast to the savory elements)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (enhances the herbal notes; use flat-leaf for the most vibrant flavor)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed (brightens the salad and prevents browning of the chicken)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (adds a tangy depth; it’s a key secret in our Straub’s Chicken Salad recipe)
- Salt and pepper, to taste (start with 1/2 teaspoon each and adjust based on your preferences for seasoning)
Required Tools and Equipment
Having gathered our fresh ingredients for Straub’s Chicken Salad, we now turn to the essential tools and equipment that make preparation straightforward and efficient. These items help us achieve the perfect texture and flavor balance while minimizing effort.
To ensure success, here’s a curated list of the key tools we’ll need, organized by their primary function in the recipe:
- Cutting Board: A sturdy, non-slip surface for safely chopping vegetables like celery and red onion. We recommend a large wooden or plastic board to handle multiple ingredients at once.
- Chef’s Knife: Sharp and versatile for dicing cooked chicken breast, slicing grapes, and mincing parsley. Opt for an 8-inch blade to make precise cuts quickly.
- Mixing Bowl: A medium-sized (at least 4-quart) glass or stainless steel bowl for combining all ingredients. This allows us to toss everything evenly without spills.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate sets for portioning mayonnaise, lemon juice, and seasonings. We suggest a set with both dry and liquid measurements to avoid errors.
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon: Ideal for gently mixing the salad to coat ingredients without crushing delicate items like grapes. A silicone spatula works best for easy cleanup.
- Lemon Juicer or Reamer: A simple hand-held tool for extracting fresh lemon juice efficiently, ensuring we get every drop for that zesty flavor.
By using these essential tools, we streamline the process of creating our Straub’s Chicken Salad, making it accessible for home cooks of all levels. Always prioritize safety and quality when selecting equipment to enhance our cooking experience.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through creating Straub’s Chicken Salad with simple, step-by-step instructions to achieve a flavorful, healthy dish bursting with zesty flavors and textures.
Prep
Before mixing our salad, we prepare the ingredients to ensure everything is fresh and ready for assembly. Start by placing the cooked chicken breast on a clean cutting board and use a sharp chef’s knife to dice it into bite-sized pieces, yielding about 2 cups for a balanced salad that highlights its tender, juicy texture. Next, wash and trim the celery stalks, then chop them finely—aim for 1/2 cup—to add a crisp, refreshing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy elements.
For the red onion, peel and dice it into small pieces, about 1/4 cup, to infuse a sharp, tangy bite without overwhelming the other flavors. Halve the grapes—use 1 cup of seedless varieties like red or green—for their sweet, juicy bursts that elevate the salad’s appeal. Finally, finely chop the fresh parsley to get 2 tablespoons, releasing its bright, herbaceous aroma that ties the ingredients together.
Cook
Although Straub’s Chicken Salad relies mostly on pre-cooked elements, we ensure optimal flavor by quickly refreshing or warming components if needed. If your cooked chicken breast isn’t at room temperature, gently heat it in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s warm and aromatic—be careful not to overcook it to maintain its moist, succulent quality.
For any additional enhancement, toast nuts or seeds if you’re adding them (though not in the original list), by heating a dry skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until golden and fragrant. This step adds a nutty depth, but for our simplified version, we keep it minimal to preserve the salad’s light, fresh profile.
Assemble
With all ingredients prepped, we bring everything together in a large mixing bowl to create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Add the diced chicken, chopped celery, red onion, halved grapes, and chopped parsley to the bowl, then incorporate 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, and seasonings like salt and pepper to taste.
Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently toss the mixture until evenly coated, ensuring the creamy dressing clings to each piece for a silky, tangy finish that makes every bite irresistible. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, then chill the salad in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to let the flavors meld, resulting in a refreshing, vibrant dish perfect for any occasion.
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the best features of our Straub’s Chicken Salad is its flexibility for make-ahead preparation, allowing us to save time while keeping flavors fresh and vibrant. By planning ahead, we ensure the salad remains crisp and delicious for meals throughout the week.
Preparing Ingredients in Advance
To get started, we focus on prepping the key components early. Begin by cooking and dicing the chicken breast up to 24 hours ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its tender texture and prevent drying. Similarly, chop the celery, red onion, and parsley, then place them in separate containers to avoid sogginess from moisture buildup.
For the grapes, halve them and keep them in a sealed bag or container. This step helps preserve their juicy sweetness without causing them to release excess liquid into other ingredients.
Assembling the Salad Ahead of Time
Once ingredients are prepped, we can fully assemble the salad up to 2 days in advance for optimal flavor melding. Combine the diced chicken, chopped vegetables, grapes, and herbs in a large mixing bowl. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and seasonings to create the dressing. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss thoroughly until everything is evenly coated.
Transfer the assembled salad to an airtight container and refrigerate immediately. This chilling process allows the zesty flavors to infuse deeply, resulting in a refreshing dish that tastes even better the next day.
Storage and Serving Tips
For best results, we recommend the following guidelines to maintain quality:
- Refrigerate promptly: Always store the salad at or below 40°F (4°C) to prevent bacterial growth and keep it safe to eat.
- Avoid freezing: The texture of the mayonnaise and fresh produce may become watery or mushy if frozen, so stick to refrigeration only.
If needed, stir the salad gently before serving to redistribute any settled dressing. For added crunch, we can sprinkle in fresh herbs or toasted nuts just before eating to enhance the salad’s vibrant appeal.
| Storage Component | Recommended Method | Maximum Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Prepped ingredients | Airtight containers in refrigerator | Up to 2 days |
| Fully assembled salad | Airtight container in refrigerator | Up to 3 days |
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing our take on Straub’s Chicken Salad, a dish that’s become a go-to favorite in our kitchen.
It’s not just about the flavors—it’s the ease and versatility that make it perfect for any day.
Give it a try and see how it adds a fresh twist to your meals—we’re confident it’ll become a staple for you too.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Straub’s Chicken Salad?
Straub’s Chicken Salad is a refreshing, healthy dish featuring tender chicken, fresh veggies, and zesty flavors like grapes, celery, and Dijon mustard. It’s perfect for quick meals or summer events, offering versatility and ease. The author simplifies the recipe for home cooks, making it a staple for balanced, flavorful eating.
What ingredients are needed for Straub’s Chicken Salad?
Key ingredients include cooked chicken breast, mayonnaise, celery, red onion, grapes, parsley, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and seasonings. Use fresh, high-quality items for the best taste. They’re listed in order of use with prep details to ensure accuracy and simplicity in your kitchen.
What tools are required to prepare Straub’s Chicken Salad?
Essential tools include a cutting board, chef’s knife, mixing bowl, measuring cups and spoons, spatula or wooden spoon, and a lemon juicer. These items help achieve the right texture and flavor while keeping the process safe and efficient for cooks of all levels.
How do I make Straub’s Chicken Salad step by step?
Start by prepping ingredients: dice chicken, chop celery, onion, parsley, and halve grapes. Combine in a bowl with dressing (mayonnaise, lemon juice, mustard, seasonings), toss until coated, and chill. Optionally, warm the chicken or add toasted nuts for extra flavor. The process is straightforward and takes little time.
Can I make Straub’s Chicken Salad ahead of time?
Yes, prepare components like diced chicken and chopped veggies in advance and store them refrigerated. Assemble the full salad up to two days ahead to let flavors meld. This makes it ideal for busy schedules, but stir gently before serving to maintain freshness and texture.
How should I store Straub’s Chicken Salad?
Store prepped ingredients or the assembled salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps for up to two days when fully made. For best results, add fresh herbs or nuts just before serving to preserve crunch and flavor.
What makes Straub’s Chicken Salad healthy and versatile?
It’s packed with lean protein from chicken, fresh veggies for nutrients, and light flavors that keep it low-calorie. Use it as a main dish, side, or sandwich filling for meals or events, making it adaptable while promoting balanced eating with simple, wholesome ingredients.