In our fast-paced world, finding meals that are both nutritious and quick to prepare can feel daunting. Enter this healthy chicken salad with vegetable oil-free mayo recipe—a game-changer for anyone seeking a delicious, wholesome meal without compromising on time or health. This delightful chicken salad is packed with lean protein, vibrant vegetables, and fresh herbs, making it a powerhouse of nutrients.

The real star is the homemade vegetable oil-free mayo crafted with avocado oil. This choice eliminates unhealthy trans fats and replaces them with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which are known to support cardiovascular health and reduce inflammation. Plus, the simplicity of the ingredients ensures that you’re not consuming any unnecessary preservatives or additives commonly found in store-bought mayo.

Preparation is a breeze, allowing you to whip up this dish quickly. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a satisfying dinner, or a nutritious snack, this chicken salad is versatile enough to fit the bill. Serve it over a bed of greens, in a whole grain sandwich, or as a filling for lettuce wraps to keep things light and low-carb.

Perfect for meal prepping, this chicken salad can be made beforehand, ensuring you have a healthy option ready whenever hunger strikes. It’s not just a meal; it’s a convenient and delicious way to stay on track with your health goals. Enjoy this chicken salad’s vibrant flavors and nourishing ingredients, and let it become a staple in your healthy eating repertoire.

Healthy Chicken Salad with Vegetable Oil-Free Mayo
Ingredients:

For the Chicken Salad:
– 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
– 1 cup celery, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil-free mayonnaise (see recipe below)
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste

For the Vegetable Oil-Free Mayo:
– 1 large egg yolk
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 cup avocado oil
– Salt to taste

Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetable Oil-Free Mayo:
– In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg yolk, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice until well combined.
– Slowly add the avocado oil in a thin stream while continuously whisking. This should take a few minutes. Make sure the oil is fully incorporated before adding more.
– Season with salt to taste once all the oil is added, and the mayo is thickened. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Chicken Salad:
– In a large bowl, combine the diced or shredded chicken, celery, red bell pepper, red onion, parsley, and dill.
– Mix the vegetable oil-free mayo, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice in a small bowl until smooth.
– Pour the mayo mixture over the chicken and vegetables. Stir until everything is well coated.
– Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
– Chill the chicken salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

3. Serving Suggestions:
– Serve the chicken salad on a bed of mixed greens.
– Enjoy it as a sandwich on whole grain bread.
– Stuff it into a whole wheat pita or lettuce wrap for a low-carb option.

This healthy chicken salad is perfect for a light lunch or a quick dinner. The homemade vegetable oil-free mayo adds a creamy texture and rich flavor without using vegetable oils. Enjoy!