Blackened Chicken Salad Whole Foods Recipe Foods was an exciting culinary journey from start to finish.
I prepared the dish for a group of close friends who are passionate about food and always appreciate a well-crafted meal.
The process involved seasoning chicken breasts with a blend of spices paprika, garlic powder, thyme, and cayenne and searing them in a hot skillet until a crispy, smoky crust formed.
The fresh greens and vegetables, including ripe tomatoes, avocado, and red onion, were tossed together with a tangy dressing that complemented the rich, flavorful chicken.
As the aroma of the chicken filled the kitchen, laughter and conversation flowed. Cooking in this atmosphere felt like a celebration of good food and great company.
Why You Should Try This Blackened Chicken Salad Whole Foods Recipe?
This blackened chicken salad from Whole Foods is a flavorful and healthy option that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds.
The chicken is coated in a blend of spices, creating a crispy, smoky exterior that pairs wonderfully with fresh greens, vegetables, and a light dressing.
It’s a great way to enjoy a protein-packed meal while keeping things light and refreshing. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner, this salad is a delicious choice.
How To Prepare Blackened Chicken Salad Whole Foods Recipe?
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Course: Salad
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American / Southern Fusion
Calories: Approximately 280–320 per serving
Yield: 3 servings
Equipment Needed:
- Medium mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Optional: Skillet (if cooking chicken fresh)
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped or shredded
- 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt
- 2 teaspoons honey
- ¾ teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon grainy mustard
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 stalk celery, finely diced
- ½ cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 4 tablespoons low-fat sour cream
Instructions
1. Prepare Chicken:
If not using pre-cooked chicken, season raw chicken breast with salt, a pinch of Cajun seasoning, and a dash of paprika. Cook in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked (about 5 minutes per side). Let it cool slightly, then chop or shred.
2. Mix Seasonings:
In a small bowl, combine paprika, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, oregano, cumin, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt.
3. Build the Base:
In a large bowl, add the cooked, chopped chicken. Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the chicken and toss until evenly coated.
4. Add Crunch & Flavor:
Stir in the diced celery, chopped green onions, and shredded carrots.
5. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together grainy mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, mayonnaise, and sour cream until smooth.
6. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the chicken and veggies. Mix thoroughly to ensure everything is well-coated.
7. Chill or Serve:
For best flavor, refrigerate the salad for 30 minutes before serving. Otherwise, serve immediately as a sandwich filling, wrap, or over greens.
Ways To Serve
We like serving blackened chicken salad from Whole Foods on a toasted brioche bun or wrapped in crisp romaine leaves for a lighter option.
It’s great scooped onto crackers or piled into a warm pita. Sometimes we just grab a fork and eat it straight from the bowl no extras needed.
Expert Tips
1. Use Fresh Spices: Mix your own blackening spice blend with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne, salt, and pepper for bold flavor.
2. Get the Perfect Sear: Use a hot cast iron skillet to sear the chickenthis locks in juiciness and gives that signature blackened crust.
3. Marinate for Moisture: Marinate the chicken in a bit of olive oil and lemon juice for at least 30 minutes before seasoning to keep it tender.
4. Balance with Creamy Dressing: Pair the spice with a creamy ranch or avocado-lime dressing to cool down the heat.
5. Add Crunch and Color: Use a mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, red onions, corn, and tortilla strips to mimic Whole Foods vibrant texture and flavor balance.
Proper Storage
To properly store blackened chicken salad from a Whole Foods-style recipe, first ensure the salad is cooled to room temperature if freshly made.
Transfer it into an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. For best quality and safety, consume within 3 to 4 days.
Keep any dressing or toppings like avocado or croutons separate until ready to serve to maintain texture and freshness.
Avoid leaving the salad at room temperature for more than two hours to prevent bacterial growth.
Conclusion
Blackened Chicken Salad Whole Foods Recipe was an easy success, full of bold flavor and fresh ingredients.
The spicy chicken pairs so well with the crisp vegetables and creamy dressing. I really enjoyed making it and hope you’ll give it a try today.
It’s simple, satisfying, and made with care. Let this be your go-to meal when you want something homemade and delicious without a lot of fuss.
Blackened Chicken Salad Whole Foods Recipe
Equipment
- Medium mixing bowl
- Cutting Board
- Knife
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Optional: Skillet (if cooking chicken fresh)
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast chopped or shredded
- 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt
- 2 teaspoons honey
- ¾ teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to taste
- 1 tablespoon grainy mustard
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 stalk celery finely diced
- ½ cup green onions finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 4 tablespoons low-fat sour cream
Instructions
Prepare Chicken:
- If not using pre-cooked chicken, season raw chicken breast with salt, a pinch of Cajun seasoning, and a dash of paprika. Cook in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked (about 5 minutes per side). Let it cool slightly, then chop or shred.
Mix Seasonings:
- In a small bowl, combine paprika, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, oregano, cumin, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt.
Build the Base:
- In a large bowl, add the cooked, chopped chicken. Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the chicken and toss until evenly coated.
Add Crunch & Flavor:
- Stir in the diced celery, chopped green onions, and shredded carrots.
Make the Dressing:
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together grainy mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, mayonnaise, and sour cream until smooth.
Combine Everything:
- Pour the dressing over the chicken and veggies. Mix thoroughly to ensure everything is well-coated.
Chill or Serve:
- For best flavor, refrigerate the salad for 30 minutes before serving. Otherwise, serve immediately as a sandwich filling, wrap, or over greens.
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