Craving a quick, satisfying, and utterly delicious lunch or light dinner? Look no further than this cheesy chicken salad recipe! This isn't your grandma's bland chicken salad; we're talking creamy, cheesy perfection bursting with flavor. Forget dry, boring chicken – this recipe uses simple ingredients to create a truly unforgettable dish that's perfect for sandwiches, wraps, crackers, or even enjoyed straight from the bowl. The combination of tender chicken, sharp cheddar, and a zesty homemade dressing creates a symphony of taste sensations that will leave you wanting more.
This incredibly versatile recipe is as easy to make as it is to enjoy. Ready to transform simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece? Let's dive into the simple step-by-step process to create your own unforgettable cheesy chicken salad.
Tools Needed
- fridge
- pan
- oven
Ingredients
- Chicken: 1 loaf, cut into small cubes
- Garlic powder: 1 tablespoon
- Red chili powder: 1 tablespoon
- Cumin: 1 tablespoon
- Salt: to taste
- Black pepper powder: 1 tablespoon
- Thyme: 1 tablespoon
- White vinegar: 3 tablespoons
- Chili sauce: 3 tablespoons
- Tomatoes: 4 medium, chopped
- Onion: 1 large, chopped
- Garlic cloves: 3, chopped
- Green chilies: 2, chopped
- Paprika powder: 1 tablespoon
- White cumin: 1 teaspoon
- Ginger powder: 1 teaspoon
- Oregano: 1 teaspoon
- Sugar: 1 teaspoon
- Chicken powder: 1 tablespoon
- Vinegar: 3 tablespoons (½ cup)
- Ketchup: 1 cup
- Mozzarella and cheddar cheese: 1 cup
- Tortillas
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Marinate and Cook Chicken
- Combine chicken with garlic powder, red chili powder, cumin, salt, black pepper, thyme, vinegar, and chili sauce. Mix well and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Cook the marinated chicken in a pan until its water evaporates and it's cooked through.
Step 2. Prepare the Creamy Sauce
- Sauté chopped onions until softened.
- Add chopped garlic and cook briefly.
- Add chopped tomatoes and cook until softened.
- Stir in paprika powder, white cumin, red chili powder, salt, ginger powder, oregano, sugar, black pepper, chicken powder, and vinegar.
- Simmer until thickened, then let cool.
- Blend the cooled sauce until smooth.
Step 3. Assemble the Chicken Salad Rolls
- Spread some sauce on a tortilla, add chicken, cheese, and roll it up.
Step 4. Bake and Serve
- Place the rolls in a baking dish, top with remaining sauce and cheese.
- Bake at 200°C for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
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Tips
- Don't overcook the onions and garlic in the sauce.
- You can add 1 tablespoon of flour to the sauce for extra thickness, but it's optional.
- If you don't have ketchup, you can use tomato puree instead.
- Don't apply too much sauce when assembling the rolls, as there will be sauce on the bottom and top.
- You can cut the salad rolls into smaller pieces if desired.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 600-700
- Fat: 35-45g
- Carbs: 50-60g
- Protein: 40-50g
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Experiment with your favorites! Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even pepper jack would all be delicious substitutions or additions.
2. How can I make this ahead of time?
This salad is great made ahead! Prepare it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will actually meld nicely overnight.
This cheesy chicken salad recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion. Its simplicity and delicious flavor make it a versatile addition to your recipe repertoire. So go ahead, give it a try and enjoy the cheesy, chickeny goodness!