If you're looking for a healthy and delicious snack, consider trying 1/3 cup (85 g) of Chunky Chicken Salad. This serving contains approximately 200 calories, making it a filling option that won't derail your diet.

Chicken Salad is a popular choice among health enthusiasts as it's high in protein and low in carbs. According to the USDA, a single serving of chunky chicken salad provides 14 grams of protein and only 6 grams of carbs.

In this article, we'll discuss the nutritional benefits of chicken salad, how to make chunky chicken salad, and ways to enjoy it. We'll also provide some tips on storing and substituting ingredients in this recipe.

Serving size and Calories

A 1/3 cup (85 g) serving of Chunky Chicken Salad contains approximately 200 calories. The serving size can be adjusted based on individual needs, but it's important to keep track of the calories to maintain a healthy diet. You can use online calorie trackers to monitor your intake and make sure you're staying within your daily limit.

Fat and Cholesterol

A serving of Chunky Chicken Salad contains 11 grams of fat, 3 grams of saturated fat, and 60 milligrams of cholesterol. While this may seem like a lot, the majority of the fat comes from heart-healthy sources like chicken and nuts. Additionally, consuming monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats in moderation can help improve heart health.

Carbohydrates and Fiber

A serving of Chunky Chicken Salad contains 6 grams of carbohydrates and 1 gram of fiber. Low-carb and high-protein diets like the Paleo diet often call for dishes like chicken salad as a staple food item to help maintain balance in nutrient intake. It is essential to note the carb content of this meal. Fiber can help keep you feeling full, so adding additional sources of fiber, like leafy greens, can help improve your satisfaction after eating a low-carb meal.

Protein and Sodium

A serving of Chunky Chicken Salad provides 14 grams of protein and 290 milligrams of sodium. Protein is important for maintaining muscle mass and keeping you feeling full longer, and this dish offers an excellent source. Sodium can cause water retention if consumed in excess but is essential for keeping cells active and providing synapse activity in the nervous system. To reduce sodium intake, you can try adding additional spices or seasoning to your chicken salad, like garlic or lemon juice.

Vitamins and Minerals

A serving of Chunky Chicken Salad provides several essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron. Vitamin A is crucial for maintaining healthy vision, skin, and immune function, while vitamin C aids in collagen production and supports the immune system. Calcium and iron are important for maintaining bone health and carrying oxygen in the blood. You can make this dish more nutritious by adding additional vegetables like spinach or carrots, which provide additional vitamins and minerals.

Healthy Benefits of Chicken Salad

Chicken salad is a versatile and healthy option for several reasons. Chicken protein provides a satisfying and filling meal option that is affordable and healthy. Adding healthy fats through nuts like almonds or pecans can help reduce inflammation in the body and regulate blood sugar. Consuming low-carb meals also helps regulate blood sugar and keeps hunger at bay for longer periods, reducing snacking.

How to make Chunky Chicken Salad?

To make Chunky Chicken Salad, you'll need to start with cooked and shredded chicken breast or canned chicken breast. You can add chopped celery, onion, nuts, and some mayonnaise or plain Greek yogurt. Place all of the ingredients in a bowl and mix well, seasoning it according to your taste with salt, pepper, seasonings, or other herbs like cilantro or basil. Refrigerate the salad for two minutes before serving to keep it fresh, and serve it with a side of leafy greens or other veggies for added health benefits.

Ways to Enjoy Chunky Chicken Salad

Chunky Chicken Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in several ways. You can make lettuce wraps or use it as a filling for a sandwich or pita. It can also be eaten as a dip with pita or vegetable sticks or served over a bed of mixed greens as a salad.

Substitutes for Chicken Salad

Chicken salad can be easily modified to fit varying dietary restrictions or preferences. For non-meat eaters, options like chickpeas, black beans, or tofu can work as replacements with the other ingredients you prefer to use in your chicken salad recipe. There are also several meat options for people looking for plant-based or less fatty options, such as turkey breast or salmon. It's essential to pay attention to the nutritional content of the substitutes to ensure you're getting a meal that's still nutritionally balanced.

Tips to Store Chunky Chicken Salad

Chicken salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Adding a slice of bread in the container can absorb excess moisture and help keep the chicken salad fresh. To keep it chilled on-the-go, you can pack the salad with an ice pack. If you're preparing chicken salad in advance it may be better to incorporate ingredients like fresh fuits or veggies before serving to maintain crunchiness and freshness. It's important to avoid leaving the chicken salad sitting at room temperature for too long, as this can allow bacteria to grow and cause food poisoning.