Lunch

Smoky Chicken Salad Delight

★★★★★ 4.7 (576)

This smoky chicken salad is a perfect blend of bold flavors and fresh ingredients that’s both satisfying and easy to make. It’s great for a quick lunch or a light dinner when you want something delicious without the fuss.

◷ 1 hr 20 min Total Time

♜ 4 Servings

▥ Hard Difficulty

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Ingredients

4 servings

5 pounds chicken breasts 2 tablespoons ground black pepper 1 tablespoon celery salt 1 pound celery, diced 1 medium red onion, diced 1 teaspoon caraway seeds 30 ounces mayonnaise

Pilaf with Skewered Kebabs

Instructions

Step 1

Start by boiling the chicken breasts in a pot of water until they’re cooked through and no longer pink inside—this usually takes about 40 minutes. While the chicken is cooking, get your charcoal grill ready for medium-high heat. Light about 10 coals on one side of the grill, and once they’re covered with a bit of white ash, scatter some hickory wood chips over them for that smoky flavor.

Step 2

Place the cooked chicken breasts on the cooler side of the grill, away from the direct heat, and let them smoke gently for about 15 minutes—just enough to pick up a subtle smoky aroma. After smoking, move the chicken to a plate and let it rest for around 10 minutes so it cools down.

Step 3

Once cooled, dice the chicken and sprinkle it with a little pepper and celery salt. In a large bowl, toss together diced celery and red onion, then add the chicken in batches—about three breasts at a time—sprinkling in a pinch of caraway seeds each time and mixing everything well. Finally, stir in some mayonnaise, cover the bowl, and pop it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad brings together smoky, tender chicken with fresh, crisp vegetables for a perfect balance of flavors. It’s light yet satisfying, making it ideal for a quick lunch or a healthy dinner. The smoky taste adds a unique twist that elevates a simple chicken salad to something special.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this salad over a bed of mixed greens or inside a pita bread for a tasty wrap. It pairs well with crusty bread or crackers on the side. Add a squeeze of lemon or a drizzle of olive oil just before serving to brighten the flavors.

Storage Tips

Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep any dressing separate until ready to serve to maintain freshness. If possible, add fresh herbs or crunchy toppings just before eating to preserve their texture.