Pecan Chicken Salad

Chicken Salad with Maple Pepper

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• cup mayonnaise
• cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 teaspoons white wine vinegar
• teaspoon garlic powder
• teaspoon dried thyme
• teaspoon Park Hill maple pepper (or similar)
• 2 cups chopped cooked chicken
• 2 stalks celery, sliced
• cup chopped toasted pecans
• 2 tablespoons minced red onion

Directions:

1. In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, white wine vinegar, garlic powder, thyme, and maple pepper. Stir until smooth and well mixed.
2. Add the chopped chicken, sliced celery, toasted pecans, and minced red onion. Toss everything together until evenly combined.
3. Serve immediately for a fresh taste, or refrigerate for up to 3 days for later use.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 421
• Fat: 36g
• Carbs: 4g
• Protein: 20g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Total Sugars: 2g
• Cholesterol: 76mg
• Vitamin C: 1mg
• Calcium: 62mg
• Iron: 2mg
• Potassium: 295mg

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your needs. Please consult a healthcare professional if you're following a medically restrictive diet.

Origin Story:
Pecan chicken salad is a modern twist on the classic chicken salad, introduced in the southern United States where pecans are abundant. Pecans, native to the southern states, are often incorporated into both savory and sweet dishes. This salad combines tender chicken with creamy dressing and toasted pecans, offering a perfect blend of textures and flavors. It is thought to have originated in the 20th century, when chicken salads began evolving beyond the traditional boiled chicken, eggs, and mayonnaise base. Adding toasted nuts, such as pecans, became a popular variation, adding a crunchy element and a touch of Southern flair.

Regional Features:
Pecans are a staple ingredient in Southern cooking, especially in dishes such as pecan pie and salads. The regions affinity for this nut gives pecan chicken salad its distinctive character. While chicken salads are popular across the United States, Southern versions are known for their incorporation of locally sourced ingredients like pecans, fresh herbs, and homemade dressings. In Southern cuisine, the balance of sweet and savory flavors is often celebrated, which is reflected in the maple seasoning used in this dish.

How It Differs From Similar Dishes:
The key difference between pecan chicken salad and other similar dishes lies in the use of toasted pecans and the unique seasoning of maple pepper. Traditional chicken salads often feature simple ingredients like boiled eggs, celery, and mayonnaise, whereas pecan chicken salad elevates the dish by adding roasted nuts for crunch and complexity. The maple pepper, a mix of sweet and smoky flavors, also sets this recipe apart from the standard chicken salad, making it more aromatic and flavorful.

Common Serving Locations:
Pecan chicken salad is typically served in casual dining settings, such as family gatherings, picnics, or brunches. Its often found in cafes or bistros in the Southern United States, where regional ingredients are emphasized. You can enjoy this salad as a main dish or serve it on a bed of lettuce as an appetizer. It pairs wonderfully with toasted bread or in a wrap, making it versatile for various meal occasions.

Interesting Facts:
1. The pecan tree is the only tree nut native to North America, and it is the state tree of Texas and Alabama.
2. The salad is often a great way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken, making it both practical and delicious.
3. Pecans are rich in healthy fats, antioxidants, and vitamins, making them a nutritious addition to this hearty dish.
4. Some variations of pecan chicken salad incorporate fruits like grapes or apples, adding a burst of sweetness that complements the savory flavors of the chicken and nuts.
5. The salad can be made ahead of time and kept in the fridge for up to 3 days, allowing the flavors to meld together.

FAQ about Pecan Chicken Salad

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