Lunch & Dinner

Chicken And Wild Rice Salad Recipe – Cheap Delicious Meals

Name: Chicken And Wild Rice Salad Recipe – Cheap Delicious Meals
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 1/4 cup chopped green onions; 1 tablespoon natural honey; 1/4 cup dried cranberries; 2/3 cup creamy mayonnaise; 2 cups cooked wild rice; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1/8 teaspoon sea salt; 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper; 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken; 1 1/2 cups halved red or green grapes; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley; 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice; 1 cup toasted cashews

Martha Adams March 19, 2025

Servings: 6 Total Time: 15 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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Summer is a wondrous time. Everyone’s bustling around, looking for fresh, easy meals to keep them cool and healthy. One dish that ticks all those boxes is chicken and wild rice salad. This isn’t merely a salad; it’s a refreshing blend of flavors, textures, and nutrients that can tantalize your taste buds while keeping you light on your feet. Who doesn’t want a meal that’s not just good for you but also brings a party to your palate?

I first fell in love with this salad during a summer cookout. My neighbor had put together a feast, and this delicious salad caught my eye. With its vibrant colors and inviting aroma, I just had to know how to make it. I did my research, adapted it to suit my taste, and now I’m thrilled to share it with you.

Let’s unfold the beauty and flavors of chicken and wild rice salad together.

What is Chicken and Wild Rice Salad?

At its core, chicken and wild rice salad is a mix of shredded rotisserie chicken and cooked wild rice, combined with fresh vegetables, nuts, and a creamy dressing. It’s cold, refreshing, and perfect for warm weather! The blend of ingredients not only makes it delicious but also nutritious.

Wild rice is a fantastic grain full of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. When combined with chicken, nuts, and vibrant veggies, this dish quickly becomes a powerhouse of flavor and nutrients. Picture the nutty taste of wild rice mingling with the tender chicken, all the while being enlivened by the interesting textures of grapes and cashews.

What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?

Let’s dig into the flavors that harmonize in this delightful dish.

Savory Elements: The chicken brings a rich, savory note. Grounding the dish, it provides protein and sustains your hunger.
Nutty Goodness: Wild rice adds depth. Its earthy, nutty flavors elevate the entire dish. The toasted cashews introduce a crunchy texture with a slightly sweet note.
Fresh and Fruity: Each grape burst adds sweetness, creating a delightful contrast with the savory and nutty elements.
Creamy Zing: The combination of mayonnaise, lemon juice, honey, and Dijon mustard makes for a tangy dressing that ties everything together seamlessly.

This salad is a balance between creaminess and crunch, sweetness and savoriness. You won’t want to miss a bite!

Why You’ll Love This?

First off, this chicken and wild rice salad is versatile. You can enjoy it as a main dish or serve it as a side at your next picnic or barbecue. It can be prepped ahead of time, making it an excellent choice for busy days when you don’t feel like cooking.

Secondly, it’s a colorful celebration of ingredients that’s sure to impress your guests. They’ll appreciate the thoughtfulness in flavor, texture, and presentation. Plus, this dish is health-conscious. Packed with protein, healthy fats, and a variety of vitamins and minerals from all those colorful veggies, you feel satisfied without the post-meal slump.

And don’t forget, it’s also easy to customize. You can substitute ingredients based on what you have at home or your family’s preferences. Whether you prefer cranberries, pecans, or even diced apples, the choice is yours! Repeatedly, I’ve found that once people have a taste, they come back for seconds—and those seconds are earned.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups cooked wild rice (preferably a blend for added texture)
2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1 ½ cups halved red or green grapes
1/4 cup dried cranberries
1 cup toasted cashews
1/4 cup creamy mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (or honey for sweetness)
1 tablespoon natural honey
1/8 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Chicken Breast And Yellow Rice Copycat Recipe

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook Your Wild Rice

Begin by preparing your wild rice. Rinse it under cold water to remove excess starch. Then, in a pot, combine 1 cup of wild rice with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 45-50 minutes. Once cooked, fluff with a fork and let it cool.

Step 2: Shred the Chicken

While the rice is cooking, let’s move on to the chicken. If you have a rotisserie chicken, simply shred it with your hands or two forks until you have nice, bite-sized pieces. This adds convenience and flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

In a separate bowl, combine the creamy mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, sea salt, and black pepper. Whisk it until smooth. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste; if you like it sweeter, add a touch more honey.

Step 4: Chop the Veggies and Measure Other Ingredients

Chop the green onions and parsley. Halve the grapes and set all your measured ingredients aside, so you’re ready to combine.

Step 5: Combine All Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled wild rice, shredded chicken, green onions, grapes, cranberries, and cashews. Pour in your dressing from Step 3. Toss it all gently until equally coated.

Step 6: Chill

Cover the salad with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes up to an hour. This chill time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 7: Serve

Once chilled, give it a little stir, sprinkle fresh parsley on top, and serve! Everyone will marvel at your culinary skill.

Tips & Tricks

Use Leftover Rice: If you have leftover rice from another meal, use that—it’ll save time!
Adjust With Seasonal Ingredients: Consider seasonal fruits or vegetables available, like diced apples in fall.
Experiment with the Dressing: Switch out mayonnaise for Greek yogurt if you’re looking for a lighter option.
Add Some Kick: If you like spice, mix in jalapeños for a vibrant twist.
Think Ahead: This salad keeps well in the refrigerator for three to five days, making it a great make-ahead meal.

How Can You Store This Chicken and Wild Rice Salad Recipe?

Storage is straightforward! Place the salad in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It can last in the fridge for up to five days. To maintain the crunchiness of the cashews, you can add them right before serving. Freezing is not recommended, as the textures may alter once thawed.

Ingredient Alternatives

Sometimes you don’t have every ingredient on hand. Here are some alternatives to consider:

1. Wild Rice Substitute:

Quinoa: If you want a gluten-free option, quinoa works well. It has a similar texture and flavor.

2. Chicken Variations:

Canned Chicken: In a hurry? Canned chicken is a quick alternative. Simply drain and shred it for ease.

3. Nuts and Seeds:

Pecans or Sunflower Seeds: You can swap cashews for pecans if you’re looking for a more robust flavor or use sunflower seeds for a nut-free option.

Best Chicken Breast And Yellow Rice Recipe

Conclusion

Now, with all this information, you’re fully equipped to make an outstanding chicken and wild rice salad! The ingredients may seem simple, but the fusion of flavors creates something just extraordinary. It’s an easy recipe that invites experimentation; there’s always room to make it your own.

Enjoy your meal as summer rolls on, and let this salad be a staple at your next gathering. It’s effortless, flavorful, and full of goodness. And remember, each time you whip it up, you might just be creating your new favorite dish. Happy cooking!

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Print Recipe

Chicken And Wild Rice Salad Recipe – Cheap Delicious Meals

Author: Martha Adams Cuisine: American Courses: Lunch & Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 15 mins Total Time 15 mins

Servings: 6 Calories: 300 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Before diving into the delightful world of chicken and wild rice salad, let’s talk about what you can enjoy alongside this colorful dish. Picture this: a sunny afternoon, a picnic blanket spread on the grass, and your plate full of vibrant salad.

It’s just begging for a refreshing drink. Consider serving it with chilled iced tea flavored with lemon and mint. The tartness will contrast beautifully with the creamy elements of your salad.

Or perhaps you might like a light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, which won’t overpower the flavors. For a vegetarian option, pair it with some oven-roasted vegetables or grilled corn on the cob for that smoky touch. Finish off your meal with a slice of lemon tart, and you’ve created an al fresco dining experience that’s perfect for any gathering—whether it be brunch, lunch, or a casual dinner.

Now, let's jump into the specifics of creating your own chicken and wild rice salad.