Chicken Salad with Cucumber and Dressing Recipe

Imagine a refreshing salad that combines the vibrancy of fresh cucumbers, the savory taste of chicken, and the tangy sweetness of honey-mustard dressing. A culinary concerto of flavors and textures, this chicken salad with cucumber and honey-mustard dressing is a delight for the senses and a healthy, satisfying meal.

chicken-salad-with-cucumber-and-hone-mustard-dressing-recipe

Photos of Chicken Salad with Cucumber and Honey-Mustard Dressing Recipe

This recipe incorporates a combination of commonly found ingredients and some that might require a quick trip to the supermarket. The star here is the mango, a tropical fruit that adds a sweet, slightly tart, and smooth touch to the salad. When shopping, look for mangoes that are slightly soft to touch and exude a fruity aroma. Unripe mangoes are firm and often green, but they can be ripened at home in a paper bag at room temperature.

Ingredients for Chicken Salad with Cucumber and Honey-Mustard Dressing

Lime juice: Adds a bright, tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the honey mustard.

Mayonnaise: Gives the dressing a creamy, rich base.

Honey mustard: Provides a sweet and tangy flavor profile.

Salt and Black pepper: Seasonings to enhance the flavors of the salad.

Olive oil: Used in the dressing for its rich and fruity flavor.

Chicken: The protein source of the salad, which can be grilled, roasted, or poached.

Cucumber: Adds a refreshing crunch to the salad.

Red bell pepper: Gives a sweet, slightly smoky flavor and a vibrant color.

Red onion: Offers a sharp flavor and crunch.

Mango: Adds a tropical, sweet element to the salad.

Fresh tarragon: An aromatic herb that complements the salad's fresh flavors.

Mixed salad greens: The base of the salad, providing various textures and flavors.

One reader, Barbra Seals says:

This chicken salad with cucumber and honey-mustard dressing recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the dressing is simply divine. The combination of tender chicken, crisp cucumber, and tangy dressing is a match made in culinary heaven. It's a refreshing and satisfying dish that I can't get enough of!

Barbra Seals

Cooking Techniques for Chicken Salad With Cucumber and Honey-Mustard Dressing

Whisking the dressing: Combine lime juice, mayonnaise, mustard, salt, and black pepper in a large glass or stainless-steel bowl. Slowly add the olive oil while whisking to emulsify the dressing.

Tossing the chicken salad: In a medium glass or stainless-steel bowl, toss the chicken, cucumber, bell pepper, onion, mango, and tarragon with half of the prepared dressing.

Tossing the greens: Toss the mixed salad greens into the remaining dressing until well coated.

Checking mango ripeness: The skin of a ripe mango is yellow and red, and its flesh yields to gentle pressure. If the mango is underripe, place it in a paper bag at room temperature to ripen. Once ripe, it can be refrigerated for a couple of days before use.

How To Make Chicken Salad with Cucumber and Honey-Mustard Dressing

Crisp bell peppers, fresh cucumbers, and juicy chicken is tossed in a thick sweet and rich dressing to yield a flavorful and delightful chicken salad meal!

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking:

Total: 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2tbsplime juice,(from about 1 lime)
1tbspmayonnaise
2tsphoney mustard
½tspsalt
¼tspfresh ground black pepper
½cupolive oil
2cupschicken,diced, cooked
1cucumber
1red bell pepper
2tbspred onion,minced
1large mango
2tspfresh tarragon,chopped
½lbmixed salad greens,(about 4 quarts)

Instructions

In a large glass or stainless-steel bowl, whisk together the lime juice, mayonnaise, mustard, salt and black pepper. Add the oil slowly, whisking.
In a medium glass or stainless-steel bowl, toss the chicken, cucumber, bell pepper, onion, mango and tarragon with half the dressing. Toss the greens into the remaining dressing.
Put the greens on plates and top with the chicken salad.
Serve and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 513.28kcal
Fat: 41.11g
Saturated Fat: 7.32g
Trans Fat: 0.07g
Monounsaturated Fat: 24.98g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.97g
Carbohydrates: 23.47g
Fiber: 3.71g
Sugar: 17.66g
Protein: 15.73g
Cholesterol: 53.91mg
Sodium: 408.92mg
Calcium: 63.59mg
Potassium: 627.52mg
Iron: 1.99mg
Vitamin A: 346.86µg
Vitamin C: 87.55mg

Expert Tip for Perfecting the Honey-Mustard Dressing

When preparing the chicken for this salad, it's best to grill or roast it for maximum flavor. However, if you're short on time, you can also use pre-cooked chicken or even leftover rotisserie chicken. Just make sure to remove the skin and bones before dicing it into bite-sized pieces. This will ensure that every bite of your salad has a perfect balance of chicken, cucumber, mango, and honey-mustard dressing.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe

Prep ahead: Prepare the dressing and chop the vegetables and chicken the night before to save time on the day of serving.

Use pre-cooked chicken: Utilize leftover rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken breasts to cut down on cooking time.

Invest in a good knife: A sharp, quality knife will make chopping and slicing ingredients quicker and more efficient.

Organize your workspace: Before you start, make sure all your ingredients and tools are easily accessible to streamline the cooking process.

Multi-task: While the chicken is marinating, use that time to prepare the salad greens and other ingredients to maximize efficiency.

Substitute Ingredients For Chicken Salad with Cucumber and Honey-Mustard Dressing Recipe

lime juice - Substitute with lemon juice: Lemon juice can provide a similar level of acidity and citrus flavor to the dish.
mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can provide a creamy texture and tangy flavor similar to mayonnaise, while also adding a boost of protein.
honey mustard - Substitute with Dijon mustard and honey: Mixing Dijon mustard and honey together can replicate the sweet and tangy flavor of honey mustard.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil in this recipe.
chicken - Substitute with grilled tofu: Grilled tofu can provide a similar texture and absorb the flavors of the dressing and other ingredients.
cucumber - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini can offer a similar crisp texture and mild flavor to cucumber in the salad.
red bell pepper - Substitute with yellow bell pepper: Yellow bell pepper can provide a slightly sweeter flavor and vibrant color similar to red bell pepper.
red onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can offer a milder, sweeter flavor compared to red onion.
mango - Substitute with peach: Peach can provide a similar level of sweetness and juiciness to the salad.
tarragon - Substitute with dill: Dill can provide a fresh, herbaceous flavor similar to tarragon.
mixed salad greens - Substitute with baby spinach: Baby spinach can offer a tender, mild base for the salad.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken Salad With Cucumber and Honey-Mustard Dressing

Elevate the plating: Arrange the salad in a visually appealing manner, ensuring that each ingredient is showcased beautifully on the plate.
Incorporate color contrast: Utilize the vibrant hues of the salad ingredients to create an eye-catching and visually stimulating presentation.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of each component, ensuring that the dish exudes elegance and sophistication.
Emphasize freshness: Highlight the freshness of the ingredients by arranging them in a way that conveys a sense of vibrancy and vitality.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space to create a balanced and visually striking composition on the plate.
Garnish with edible flowers: Add a touch of elegance by incorporating delicate and edible flowers as a garnish, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the dish.
Consider plate selection: Choose the appropriate plate to complement the colors and textures of the salad, enhancing the overall presentation.
Employ artistic drizzling: Skillfully drizzle the honey-mustard dressing over the salad, using artistic flair to create an enticing visual effect.
Incorporate height: Create dimension by stacking or layering certain elements of the salad, adding visual interest and sophistication to the presentation.
Attention to detail: Pay meticulous attention to every detail, ensuring that the presentation reflects the artistry and precision expected in a Michelin-starred setting.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Recipe

Whisk: A kitchen tool used for whipping and mixing ingredients such as dressings and sauces.
Glass or stainless-steel bowl: Used for mixing and tossing ingredients together.
Knife: Essential for cutting and preparing the chicken, cucumber, bell pepper, onion, and mango.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting and chopping ingredients.
Salad spinner: Useful for washing and drying the salad greens.
Paper bag: Used for ripening underripe mangoes at room temperature.
Refrigerator: Used for storing ripe mangoes before using.
Wine glass: For serving the recommended wine to accompany the salad.

Storage and Freezing Guidelines for Chicken Salad

To store leftover chicken salad, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will meld and develop over time, making it even more delicious the next day.
If you want to prepare the salad in advance, mix the dressing and store it separately from the chicken, vegetables, and @mango. Combine the ingredients just before serving to prevent the salad from becoming soggy.
For longer storage, you can freeze the chicken salad for up to 2-3 months. However, keep in mind that the texture of the cucumber and bell pepper may change after thawing, becoming slightly softer.
To freeze, place the chicken salad in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the container with the date and contents for easy reference.
When ready to enjoy the frozen chicken salad, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. If the dressing appears separated, give it a good stir to recombine the ingredients.
If you have leftover mixed salad greens, store them separately from the chicken salad in a plastic bag or container lined with paper towels. The paper towels will absorb excess moisture, helping the greens stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Interesting Trivia About Chicken Salad

The mango used in this chicken salad recipe adds a tropical twist to the dish, complementing the flavors of the honey-mustard dressing.

Budget-Friendly: Is This Recipe Economical?

The cost-effectiveness of this chicken salad with cucumber and honey-mustard dressing recipe is quite favorable. The use of affordable ingredients like chicken, cucumber, and mixed salad greens keeps the overall cost reasonable. The addition of mango and tarragon adds a touch of sophistication without breaking the bank. With an approximate cost of $20, this recipe offers a delightful and nutritious meal for a household of four. Overall Verdict: 9.

Is This Chicken Salad Recipe Healthy?

The chicken salad with cucumber and honey-mustard dressing recipe is a relatively healthy dish, offering a balance of protein, vegetables, and fruits. The chicken provides lean protein, while the cucumber, bell pepper, onion, and mixed salad greens contribute essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The mango adds a touch of natural sweetness and additional nutrients. However, there are a few aspects that could be improved to make the recipe even healthier.

The dressing contains mayonnaise and a significant amount of olive oil, which can increase the overall calorie and fat content of the dish. To make the recipe healthier:

Reduce the amount of olive oil used in the dressing or replace some of it with a lower-calorie alternative like chicken broth or water
Use a low-fat or Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise to reduce the fat content and increase the protein
Add more vegetables to the salad, such as tomatoes, carrots, or avocado, to increase the fiber and nutrient content
Use whole grain bread or lettuce wraps instead of serving the salad on a bed of greens to incorporate more complex carbohydrates
Experiment with different herbs and spices to add flavor without relying on salt or fat, such as basil, cilantro, or cumin

Editor's Opinion on This Chicken Salad Recipe

This chicken salad with cucumber and honey-mustard dressing recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The tangy lime juice and honey-mustard dressing perfectly complement the tender chicken and crisp vegetables. The addition of mango adds a sweet and tropical twist, while the fresh tarragon provides a subtle hint of licorice flavor. The wine recommendation is a thoughtful touch, offering a perfect pairing for this refreshing and vibrant salad. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful balance of savory, sweet, and tangy elements, making it a delightful choice for a light and satisfying meal.

Enhance Your Chicken Salad with Cucumber and Honey-Mustard Dressing Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic and chives

Grilled Asparagus: Tender grilled asparagus spears with a balsamic glaze

Fruit Salad: Colorful fruit salad with a honey-lime dressing

Similar Recipes to Try If You Enjoy This Chicken Salad

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Marinate the vegetables in a mixture of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and herbs before grilling them to perfection on skewers.

Beef Stir-Fry with Broccoli and Cashews: Stir-fry thinly sliced beef with broccoli, cashews, and a savory sauce for a quick and delicious meal.

Fruit Tart with Vanilla Pastry Cream: Bake a buttery tart shell and fill it with vanilla pastry cream, then top with an assortment of fresh fruits for a stunning dessert.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Chicken Salad With Cucumber and Honey-Mustard Dressing

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Bruschetta: Satisfy your guests' taste buds with this classic Italian appetizer. Toasted baguette slices topped with a vibrant mixture of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and olive oil. A refreshing and delicious start to any meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and decadent flavor will satisfy any chocolate lover's cravings.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Delight in a creamy and luscious strawberry cheesecake, featuring a buttery graham cracker crust and a vibrant strawberry topping. Each bite offers a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.

Why trust this Chicken Salad with Cucumber and Honey-Mustard Dressing Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, featuring succulent chicken, crisp cucumber, and sweet mango paired with a zesty lime juice and creamy mayonnaise dressing. The addition of honey mustard lends a perfect balance of sweetness and tang, while the use of tarragon adds a refreshing herbal note. With the vibrant colors and fresh ingredients, this dish promises a tantalizing experience for your taste buds. Trust in the quality of this recipe to elevate your culinary journey.

Want to share your own twist on this Chicken Salad with Cucumber and Honey-Mustard Dressing Recipe? Head over to the Recipe Sharing section of our forum to discuss and exchange ideas with fellow cooking enthusiasts!

FAQ:

What type of chicken should I use for this salad?

You can use either grilled or roasted chicken for this salad. I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for a lean and tender texture.

Can I substitute the mango with another fruit?

Absolutely! If you're not a fan of mango, you can substitute it with diced pineapple, sliced strawberries, or even diced peaches for a sweet and tangy flavor.

Is there a substitute for tarragon if I can't find it?

If you can't find tarragon, you can use fresh basil or dill as a substitute. Both herbs will add a fresh and aromatic flavor to the salad.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the honey-mustard dressing ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good whisk before using it on the salad.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

While the dressing and chicken salad can be prepared ahead of time, I recommend tossing the salad greens and assembling the salad just before serving to keep the greens fresh and crisp.