Recipe: Blackened Chicken Salad

Just like pizza, pasta, or chili, chicken salad is one of those recipes that can have endless variations!  But some are clear standouts above all the rest, like this Blackened Chicken Salad.

Rotisserie chicken is not only a time-saving hack but also ensures moist, flavorful chicken in every bite.  Onion and carrots add a wonderful pop of freshness and crunch, while the blackened seasoning is a true flavor all-star.  Whether paired with crackers, on a bed of greens, or rolled into a tortilla, this chicken salad is as satisfying to eat as it is simple to prepare.

Blackened Chicken Salad

Serves 6

Ingredients

• 1 Rotisserie whole chicken
• 1/2 red onion, diced small
• 1 cup tricolor carrots, diced small
• 3/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup blackened seasoning (see tip below)

Directions:

1. Allow the chicken to cool slightly. Remove and discard the skin. Pull off the legs and wings at the joints, then remove the breast meat by slicing along the breastbone and lifting the meat away from the carcass. Shred or chop the meat into bite-sized pieces and place in a medium-sized bowl.
2. Add red onion and carrots to the bowl, then mix them with the chicken.
3. Add mayonnaise and olive oil.  Use a spatula to stir the ingredients together.
4. Sprinkle half the blackened seasoning mix on top (about 2 Tbsp), using a spatula to work the seasoning into the creamy mixture until well combined.  Then sprinkle in the remaining seasoning, and stir through again until combined.
5. Serve with your favorite Plate Method pairings and store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Tips:

• Blackened seasoning can be purchased in the spice aisle at the grocery store, though flavors vary by brand.  Consider making your own, as we did for this recipe!
• Spice preferences vary.  If you prefer less spice, you may prefer to start with 2 Tbsp of blackened seasoning, then taste-test.
• Use a food processor to quickly dice the carrots and onion to a nearly minced size.

Swaps:

• Whole rotisserie chicken: 16 oz packaged rotisserie chicken
• Tricolor carrots: carrots