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New York Deli Chicken Salad Recipe

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3.9 from 13 reviews

This classic New York Deli Chicken Salad features tender, poached chicken breasts combined with crisp celery, tangy Dijon mustard, and creamy mayonnaise. Infused with savory seasonings and a hint of sweetness, it's a flavorful and satisfying dish perfect for sandwiches or as a refreshing salad.

Ingredients

Chicken and Broth

  • 3 large chicken breasts (about 1 1/2-2 pounds)
  • 2 tablespoons Better than Bouillon chicken base

Vegetables

  • 1/2 cup finely diced celery
  • 1/4 cup finely diced onion

Seasonings and Condiments

  • 1 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon granulated garlic
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (plus more to taste)
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 cup mayonnaise

Instructions

  1. Soak Onions: Soak the finely diced onion in water to reduce its sharpness and bitterness. Drain the onions thoroughly before mixing into the chicken salad.
  2. Prepare Broth: In a large saucepan or pot, heat water along with 2 tablespoons of Better than Bouillon chicken base until it reaches a boil. Ensure the chicken breasts can be fully submerged by at least 3 inches of water.
  3. Poach Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the boiling broth, cover the pot, and bring back to a boil. Once boiling again, remove the pot from heat and let the chicken cook off heat for at least 20 minutes to ensure tenderness.
  4. Chop and Season Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the pot and chop into chunks. Spread the pieces on a cutting board to cool slightly. Sprinkle with white pepper, salt, granulated garlic, and sugar, allowing the flavors to absorb into the chicken.
  5. Combine Ingredients: Once the chicken is cooled, place it into a large bowl along with the finely diced celery, drained onions, Dijon mustard, and mayonnaise. Mix thoroughly and taste to adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper as needed.
  6. Refrigerate: Cover the chicken salad and refrigerate overnight to meld the flavors together. Before serving the next day, drain any excess liquid and incorporate a bit more mayonnaise if desired for creaminess. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

  • Soaking the onions helps soften their sharp flavor and improves the salad's overall taste.
  • Poaching the chicken gently ensures it stays moist and tender.
  • Adjust the seasoning to your personal preference, especially the salt and sugar levels.
  • Refrigerating overnight significantly enhances flavor development.
  • Good served on sandwich bread, lettuce wraps, or as a stand-alone salad.