Southern Living’s Classic Chicken Salad Recipe

Chicken salad is one of those foods that I could eat endlessly without getting bored. Classic, flavorful, and protein-packed, chicken salad goes well in any form: sandwiches, wraps, large lettuce leaves, or even eaten plain. There are a lot of chicken salad recipes out there, but I think this one is the best.

the Daring Gourmet

Who makes better versions of traditional recipes than Southern Living, who came up with this one? My guess is no. Use whatever extra chicken you may have on hand to whip up this delicious dish. Make use of any fresh chicken breasts you happen to have on hand, or another option.

Ingredients

Amanda’s Cookin’ is the source.

Chopped celery, red grapes, and dried cranberries give this chicken salad dish a wonderful range of tastes and just the right amount of crunch. The beauty of chicken salad is how adaptable it is to personal taste. Whatever you see fit, feel free to add or remove ingredients!

Directions

Southern Living is the source.

Let me cut to the chase: if you want to see the whole Southern Living recipe, go here. This chicken salad recipe is sure to please whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or preparing a large quantity to share at a family reunion. Have fun!

Slow Cooker Herb-Crusted Pork Tenderloin with Creamy Dijon and Herb Sauce!

One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles | Perfect for Busy Nights!

Ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tbsp olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
8 oz egg noodles
3 tbsp butter
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Directions:

Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Prepare Noodles: In the same skillet, add garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in chicken broth and heavy cream, then bring to a simmer. Add egg noodles, cover, and cook until tender (8-10 minutes).

Combine: Stir in butter and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Return chicken to the skillet to heat through.

Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve warm.

Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Pasta Bake

**Introduction**

Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Pasta Bake is a comforting, family-friendly dish that combines tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and pasta in a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s a one-pan meal that’s easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights, special gatherings, or meal prep. The dish is versatile, allowing you to customize it with various vegetables, spices, or cheese to suit your preferences.

**Origin and Cultural Significance**

The concept of a pasta bake, also known as “casserole” in some regions, has roots in American and European comfort foods, where various ingredients like pasta, meat, vegetables, and cheese are baked together to create a rich, hearty meal. Combining chicken with broccoli offers a nod to the popularity of these two ingredients in Western cuisine. The creamy, cheesy nature of the dish resonates with the comfort food traditions found across many cultures, especially in the United States, where pasta bakes are staples in family-friendly cooking.

**Cultural Significance**

In a broader context, pasta bakes hold significance in American home cooking and social gatherings. Dishes like this one are frequently served during holidays, potlucks, and family reunions due to their ease of preparation and ability to feed a crowd. Additionally, pasta dishes are widely recognized for their versatility in accommodating a variety of dietary needs and preferences, making them beloved in both casual and festive settings.

**Ingredients & Quantities**

**Main Ingredients:**
– 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or cubed)
– 1 medium head of broccoli (cut into florets)
– 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne or rotini works best)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion (diced)
– 2 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1 ½ cups heavy cream
– 1 ½ cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
– 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste

**Optional Additions:**
– 1 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (for a tangy kick)
– 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (for heat)
– Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Instructions:

**Tips for Success**
1. **Don’t Overcook the Broccoli:** When cooking the broccoli, blanch it for just 2-3 minutes to preserve its vibrant color and nutritional value. Overcooking can make it mushy.

2. **Choose the Right Pasta:** Pick pasta shapes that can hold sauce well, such as penne, rotini, or shells. Avoid delicate pasta like spaghetti, which may break down during baking.

3. **Use Fresh Chicken:** Shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken makes this recipe quicker and adds flavor.

4. **Cheese Varieties:** While cheddar and Parmesan are classic, you can experiment with Gruyère, mozzarella, or gouda for different flavor profiles.

5. **Adjust Seasoning:** Taste the sauce before baking and adjust seasoning as necessary. Don’t forget to season each layer (pasta, chicken, sauce) as you go.

### **Instructions**

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. **Cook the Pasta**: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta al dente according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.

3. **Prepare the Broccoli**: In the same pot, blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green and are slightly tender. Drain and set aside.

4. **Sauté the Aromatics**: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.

5. **Make the Creamy Sauce**: Add the heavy cream and chicken broth to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir in the Dijon mustard (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.

6. **Combine Ingredients**: Add the cooked chicken, pasta, and broccoli into the skillet. Stir in the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until the cheese melts and everything is evenly coated.

7. **Bake**: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with a little more shredded cheese (if desired) and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

8. **Garnish and Serve**: Remove from the oven and let the pasta bake sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

**Description**

This **Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Pasta Bake** is a satisfying dish that balances protein, vegetables, and comforting carbs in a rich, velvety sauce. The chicken provides lean protein, the broccoli contributes fiber and vitamins, and the pasta adds a hearty element to this baked casserole. The cheesy sauce binds it all together, creating a dish that’s both indulgent and nutritious. It’s a wonderful weeknight dinner option or a make-ahead meal for busy days.

**Nutritional Information (Per Serving)**

– **Calories**: ~400-450 kcal
– **Protein**: ~35g
– **Carbohydrates**: ~40g
– **Fiber**: ~3g
– **Fat**: ~20g
– **Saturated Fat**: ~10g
– **Cholesterol**: ~75mg
– **Sodium**: ~600mg
– **Vitamin A**: 15% DV
– **Vitamin C**: 50% DV
– **Calcium**: 20% DV
– **Iron**: 10% DV

(Note: Nutritional information can vary based on portion size and ingredient choices.)

**Conclusion**

Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Pasta Bake is a delicious and balanced meal that offers comfort without compromising on nutrition. It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and perfect for satisfying a variety of tastes. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping meals for the week, this dish ticks all the boxes for flavor, texture, and convenience.

**Recommendation**

For a healthier alternative, consider using whole-grain pasta for added fiber or a lighter version by substituting some of the heavy cream with a lower-fat option like Greek yogurt or a milk-based sauce. Add more vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to boost the nutritional profile. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

**Embracing Healthful Indulgence**

By using lean chicken, incorporating plenty of vegetables, and controlling the amount of cheese and cream, this pasta bake offers the best of both worlds: indulgence and nourishment. It’s a great way to enjoy a creamy, cheesy meal while making conscious choices about the ingredients you use!p

Beef Shepherd’s Pie

Shepherd’s Pie is a classic comfort food dish that brings together rich, savory flavors in a hearty, satisfying meal. This version, featuring ground beef, is both simple to prepare and perfect for cozy family dinners or festive gatherings.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)

• 1/4 cup beef broth

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared in advance)

• 2 tablespoons butter (for topping)

Instructions

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.

Prepare the Filling

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until softened. Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.

Assemble the Pie

Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the prepared mashed potatoes evenly over the top, smoothing them with a spatula.

Top and Bake

Dot the mashed potatoes with butter. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden and the edges are bubbling.

Serve

Let the Shepherd’s Pie rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Conclusion

This Beef Shepherd’s Pie makes a warm, hearty, and comforting meal perfect for the holiday season. Its rich layers of savory beef and vegetables topped with creamy mashed potatoes offer a classic dish that’s both satisfying and festive.

These light and airy Banana and Carrot Muffins combine the best of banana bread and carrot cake in one delicious bite. With ripe bananas, shredded carrots, and a hint of cinnamon, they’re perfect for a quick breakfast or a wholesome snack.

Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-24 minutes
• Total Time: 40-44 minutes
• Servings: 12 muffins

Ingredients:

• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour (163 g / 5.7 oz)
• ½ cup lightly packed brown sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ¾ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp table salt
• ½ cup rolled oats, plus more for topping
• 2 medium ripe bananas, mashed
• 2 large eggs
• ⅓ cup light oil (such as vegetable, canola, or peanut)
• ¼ cup plain yogurt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup grated carrots (from 2 small or 1 medium carrot)
• ¼ cup raisins (optional)
• ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a standard muffin tin with paper cups.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, baking soda, salt, and oats until well combined.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Add eggs, oil, yogurt, and vanilla extract, and whisk until combined. Stir in grated carrots, raisins, and nuts.
4. Combine Ingredients: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Fill Muffin Cups: Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about ⅔ full. Sprinkle additional oats and nuts on top.
6. Bake: Bake for 20-24 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Serve: Let muffins cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving Suggestions:

• Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for a perfect breakfast or snack.
• Pair with a dollop of cream cheese or a smear of butter for added richness.

Cooking Tips:

• If your bananas aren’t ripe, roast them in the oven at 350°F for 15 minutes until blackened.
• Swap out cinnamon for ginger, allspice, or nutmeg for a different flavor profile.
• Do not overmix the batter to avoid dense muffins.

Nutritional Benefits:

• High in Fiber: Thanks to the oats and carrots.
• Vitamin-Rich: Carrots provide essential vitamins like A and beta-carotene.
• Natural Sweetness: Bananas and raisins add natural sweetness, reducing the need for sugar.

Dietary Information:

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and oats.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute with plant-based yogurt or milk.
• Egg-Free: Replace eggs with 2 tablespoons of flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with water.

Storage:

• Counter: Store at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerate: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and quick preparation.
• Healthy: Packed with nutrients and fiber.
• Versatile: Suitable for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.

Conclusion:

These Banana and Carrot Muffins offer a tasty, healthy treat that’s easy to whip up. Perfect for any time of day, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy them warm from the oven for the best flavor!

Ingredients :

Boost Your Immune System Year-Round with Garlic, Onion, and Lemon

In the quest for a strong immune system, natural remedies have always been at the forefront. Among the most effective natural ingredients that can help you maintain a resilient immune system are garlic, onion, and lemon. These three powerhouses are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and antibacterial properties that can keep you healthy throughout the year. In this article, we will explore the benefits of these ingredients and provide a simple step-by-step guide to making a potent immune-boosting remedy.

Health Benefits of Garlic, Onion, and Lemon

Garlic

Garlic is widely known for its medicinal properties. It contains allicin, a compound with strong antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. Garlic also boosts white blood cell production, which helps fight infections and diseases.

Onion

Onions are rich in flavonoids and sulfur compounds that act as natural antibiotics. They support the body’s defense mechanisms and help reduce inflammation. Additionally, onions are great for respiratory health, making them ideal for flu and cold prevention.

Lemon

Lemon is a vitamin C powerhouse. It enhances immune function, aids digestion, and detoxifies the body. The high acidity of lemon juice helps kill bacteria and viruses while also improving hydration and nutrient absorption.

Step-by-Step Recipe for an Immune-Boosting Remedy

This simple yet powerful remedy is easy to prepare and can be consumed daily to keep your immune system in top shape.

Ingredients:

• 3 cloves of garlic
• 1 medium-sized onion (preferably red onion for more antioxidants)
• 1 whole lemon
• 1 cup of warm water
• 1 tablespoon of honey (optional, for taste)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   • Peel the garlic cloves and chop them finely or crush them.
   • Peel and finely chop the onion.
   • Wash the lemon thoroughly and cut it into slices. If using organic lemon, you can include the peel for extra benefits.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
   • Place the chopped garlic and onion into a bowl.
   • Squeeze the lemon juice over them and mix well.
   • Optionally, add honey to balance the strong flavors and provide additional antibacterial properties.
3. Mix with Warm Water:
   • Pour a cup of warm water over the mixture and let it sit for 5–10 minutes to allow the nutrients to blend.
4. Consume:
   • Drink this mixture once a day, preferably in the morning on an empty stomach, to maximize absorption and effectiveness.

Additional Tips for Maximum Benefits

• Use raw ingredients: Heating garlic and onion can reduce their medicinal properties, so it’s best to consume them raw.
• Stay consistent: For best results, drink this remedy daily or at least 3–4 times a week.
• Pair with a healthy lifestyle: While this remedy boosts immunity, maintaining a balanced diet, exercising, and staying hydrated are also crucial for overall health.

Conclusion

Garlic, onion, and lemon create a natural and effective immune-boosting remedy that can be used year-round. With their combined antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties, these three ingredients help protect your body from infections and strengthen your immune system. Incorporate this simple yet powerful drink into your daily routine to enjoy its numerous health benefits and keep illnesses at bay.

Homemade Ice Cream

Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt

Directions:
1. In a mixing bowl, grab your whisk and combine the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and just a pinch of salt. Keep whisking until the sugar is fully dissolved—no one wants crunchy ice cream!
2. Once you’ve got that creamy goodness, pour it into your KitchenAid ice cream maker bowl.
3. Churn it up according to your machine’s instructions. You’ll know it’s ready when it thickens up and starts looking like that soft-serve we all love.
4. Finally, transfer your delicious homemade ice cream to a container. Pop it in the freezer for at least 4 hours, and resist the urge to dive in right away!

4 Ingredient Cabbage Gratin

This easy cabbage gratin is a rich, cheesy twist on traditional side dishes. Using just four ingredients, it transforms humble cabbage into a comforting, low-carb dish. The bacon adds smoky flavor while Gruyere cheese creates a golden, bubbling crust. Perfect for using up leftover cabbage or adding elegance to any meal.

Ingredients

• 1 medium green cabbage
• 5 slices thick cut bacon
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 ½ cups grated Gruyere cheese

Directions:

1 Heat oven to 400°F.

2 Cut cabbage into 8 wedges.

3 Fry bacon in a large skillet until crispy; remove.

4 Sear cabbage wedges in bacon fat on both sides.

5 Arrange in skillet in spiral.

6 Add heavy cream to cover ⅔ of the wedges.

7 Sprinkle with cooked bacon and cheese.

8 Bake for 20–30 minutes.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Kcal: 265

Dijon-Tarragon Cream Chicken

Pan-seared chicken breasts smothered in a silky Dijon mustard and tarragon cream sauce—fresh, vibrant, and full of flavor. Perfectly paired with a crisp cucumber tomato salad for a bright and elegant dinner.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter

For the Sauce:

• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh tarragon (or 1 tsp dried)
• 1 tsp lemon juice (optional)

Directions ‍

1️⃣ Sear Chicken: Season chicken with salt and pepper. In a skillet, heat oil and butter over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

2️⃣ Make Sauce: In the same pan, sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Add broth and deglaze the pan. Stir in cream, Dijon, tarragon, and lemon juice. Simmer 3–5 minutes until thickened.

3️⃣ Combine: Return chicken to skillet and spoon sauce over top. Simmer 2 more minutes.

4️⃣ Serve: Plate with a side of fresh cucumber tomato salad or steamed veggies. Spoon extra sauce over everything!

⏰ Prep Time: 10 minutes

⏰ Cook Time: 20 minutes

Servings: 2

Calories: ~420 kcal per serving

Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Salad

Ingredients:

• 4 medium beets, scrubbed and trimmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 4 cups mixed salad greens (e.g., arugula, spinach, and baby kale)
• 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette

Directions:

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare Beets: Cut the beets into wedges and place them on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat.

Roast Beets: Roast the beets in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until tender and caramelized. Let them cool slightly.

Assemble Salad: In a large bowl, toss the mixed salad greens with the balsamic vinaigrette.

Add Toppings: Top the greens with roasted beets, crumbled goat cheese, chopped walnuts, and sliced red onion.

Serve: Gently toss the salad to combine and serve immediately.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes

Honeycrisp Apple Broccoli Salad

A crisp and refreshing salad combining sweet Honeycrisp apples, crunchy broccoli, and a creamy tangy dressing. Perfect for fall gatherings or as a healthy side dish, this salad is packed with flavor and texture from fresh ingredients and a touch of sweetness.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups broccoli florets, chopped
• 1 large Honeycrisp apple, diced
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
• 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (optional)

For the dressing:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, diced Honeycrisp apple, dried cranberries, chopped pecans, red onion, and shredded cheddar (if using).

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss until everything is well coated.

Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Chilling Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes

clean eating lunch

A high-protein clean meal that’s perfect for meal prep champs!

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup ground beef or turkey
• 1/4 cup diced onion
• 1 tsp olive oil
• Salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika (to taste)
• 1 small sweet potato, peeled & diced
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp dried parsley
• Salt & pepper
• 2 hard-boiled eggs
• 1/2 ripe avocado, sliced
• 2–3 dill pickle spears
• Optional: chili flakes or hot sauce for kick

️ How to Make It :

1️⃣ Roast the Sweet Potatoes:

Toss diced sweet potatoes with olive oil, parsley, salt, and pepper. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden and crisp. These are your clean carb fix and an easy meal prep win on Facebook!

2️⃣ Cook the Ground Meat:

In a skillet, heat olive oil and cook diced onions until soft. Add ground meat, season generously, and cook until browned. This protein-packed hero adds serious flavor and fuel for the day.

3️⃣ Boil the Eggs:

Boil eggs for 8–9 minutes, then peel and slice. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and chili flakes. A classic breakfast staple with a strong protein punch.

4️⃣ Slice Avocado & Pickles:

Slice avocado and dill pickles. These add cool, creamy goodness and a zingy crunch to balance out the bowl.

5️⃣ Assemble the Plate:

Arrange everything on a large plate: ground meat, sweet potatoes, boiled eggs, avocado, and pickles. This plate is clean eating heaven and perfect for high-protein meal preppers.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes

Calories: ~550 per serving | Protein: ~35g per serving