Kardea Browns Chicken Salad Recipe: Simple & Delicious Treat

August 16, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Chicken salad has long been a beloved classic in kitchens across America, and it’s easy to see why! It’s a dish that combines tender chicken with crisp vegetables and a creamy dressing, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. One standout version that I can’t get enough of is Kardea Brown’s chicken salad recipe. Kardea, a culinary star known for her delicious Southern-inspired dishes, elevates this simple salad into something truly special. With just the right balance of flavors and textures, her chicken salad is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of fresh ingredients coming together. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be hooked on its delightful taste and heartiness!

kardea browns chicken salad recipe - detail 1

Ingredients for Kardea Browns Chicken Salad Recipe

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making Kardea Brown’s chicken salad a standout dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or poach your own for a fresh option.
1/2 cup celery, diced: This adds a lovely crunch and a hint of freshness.
1/2 cup red grapes, halved: Their natural sweetness beautifully complements the savory elements.
1/4 cup almonds, slivered: For a bit of nutty flavor and texture; feel free to toast them for extra depth.
1/4 cup mayonnaise: This gives the salad its creamy base; use your favorite brand.
2 tablespoons Greek yogurt: This adds tanginess and a boost of creaminess; it’s a great way to lighten the dish.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: For a subtle kick; it enhances the overall flavor profile.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: Freshly squeezed is best for that zesty brightness.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
Mixed greens for serving: A fresh bed for your chicken salad, adding vibrancy to your plate.

How to Prepare Kardea Browns Chicken Salad Recipe

Preparing Kardea Brown’s chicken salad is a breeze, and you’ll love how quickly it comes together. Here’s my step-by-step guide:

Start by gathering all your ingredients and a large mixing bowl. It’s always easier to have everything within reach!
In your mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced celery, halved red grapes, and slivered almonds. Gently toss these together to distribute the ingredients evenly. This mix already looks so vibrant, right?
Now, in a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Make sure it’s well blended; this dressing is the heart of the flavor!
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss until everything is nicely coated. You want each bite to be bursting with flavor!
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite even more delicious.
When you’re ready to serve, scoop the salad onto a bed of mixed greens, and enjoy the freshness!

Why You’ll Love Kardea Browns Chicken Salad Recipe

Quick preparation: This recipe comes together in just about 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Fresh ingredients: With vibrant vegetables and juicy grapes, every bite is a refreshing burst of flavor that you can feel good about.
Adaptable flavors: Feel free to tweak the ingredients to your liking! Swap in different fruits, nuts, or even dressings to create your own unique twist.
Suitable for various occasions: Whether it’s a picnic, a potluck, or just a light lunch at home, this chicken salad fits right in, making it a versatile dish everyone will enjoy.
Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch ahead of time, and you’ve got delicious lunches ready to go throughout the week!

Nutritional Information

Understanding the nutritional content of Kardea Brown’s chicken salad can help you make informed choices about your meals. Here’s the estimated nutritional data per serving (1 cup):

Calories: 250
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 300mg
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g
Protein: 20g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you choose to use. Adjustments in portions or ingredient brands may affect the overall nutritional content, so feel free to modify it according to your dietary needs!

Tips for Success with Kardea Browns Chicken Salad Recipe

To make sure your Kardea Brown’s chicken salad turns out delicious every time, here are some tried-and-true tips that I swear by:

Balance flavors: Taste your dressing before adding it to the salad. If it seems a bit too tangy, a pinch of sugar can help balance it out. Remember, the goal is to achieve a harmonious blend of savory and sweet!
Adjust seasoning: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! Seasoning is key to bringing out the natural flavors of your chicken and veggies. Start with a small amount and add more to your taste as needed.
Chill for flavor development: Allowing the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes is crucial. This resting time lets the flavors meld together, making each bite even more delightful. If you can, chill it for longer—up to a couple of hours is ideal!
Use quality ingredients: Since this salad relies on a few key components, the quality of your chicken, mayonnaise, and yogurt really matters. Opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
Don’t overmix: When combining the chicken and dressing, mix gently. You want to coat everything evenly without breaking up the chicken too much. We want those tender shreds to shine!
Experiment with textures: If you want to elevate your salad, consider adding ingredients like chopped apples for crunch or dried cranberries for a sweet contrast. Mixing in different textures can make the eating experience even more enjoyable!

Variations of Kardea Browns Chicken Salad Recipe

One of the best things about Kardea Brown’s chicken salad is its versatility! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or to use up what you have on hand. Here are some delicious variations to inspire your creativity:

Turkey Twist: Swap the chicken for shredded turkey for a seasonal touch, especially great after Thanksgiving! It holds up just as well and offers a slightly different flavor profile.
Fruit Fusion: Add chopped apples or diced pears for a refreshing crunch and a hint of sweetness. Dried fruits like cranberries or raisins can also bring a lovely chewy texture.
Nuts About Nuts: While almonds are fantastic, don’t hesitate to experiment with other nuts! Walnuts or pecans add a rich, buttery flavor. For a spicy kick, try adding some chopped candied pecans.
Herb-Infused: Fresh herbs like dill, cilantro, or parsley can elevate the flavor profile. Toss in a handful of your favorite herb to give the salad a fresh, vibrant taste.
Spicy Kick: If you love a bit of heat, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the dressing. It’s a fun way to spice things up and add another layer of flavor.
Greek Style: For a Mediterranean twist, add feta cheese and chopped cucumbers, and swap the mayonnaise for a yogurt-based tzatziki. It’s a refreshing change that’s perfect for summer picnics!

Don’t be afraid to get creative! Mix and match ingredients to discover new flavor combinations that you love. The beauty of this chicken salad is that it can be tailored to fit your preferences, so enjoy experimenting!

Serving Suggestions for Kardea Browns Chicken Salad Recipe

When it comes to enjoying Kardea Brown’s chicken salad, the serving options are endless! Here are some delightful ideas to take your meal to the next level:

Whole Grain Sandwiches: Spread the chicken salad generously between slices of whole grain bread for a hearty sandwich. Add some crisp lettuce and sliced tomatoes for a fresh crunch.
Wrap It Up: For a lighter option, spoon the chicken salad into a whole wheat wrap. Add some spinach or arugula, roll it up tightly, and you’ve got a satisfying lunch on the go!
On a Platter: Serve the chicken salad as a standalone dish on a large platter, garnished with fresh herbs. It’s perfect for potlucks or gatherings, allowing guests to help themselves.
Side Salad: Pair your chicken salad with a light, refreshing side salad. A simple mix of mixed greens, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the heartiness of the chicken salad beautifully.
With Soup: This chicken salad makes a fantastic companion to a warm, light soup. Think of a classic tomato basil or a delicate vegetable broth that won’t overpower the flavors of the salad.
Stuffed Avocados: For a fun twist, hollow out ripe avocados and fill them with the chicken salad. It’s not only delicious but also adds a lovely visual element to your meal.

These serving suggestions not only enhance your meal experience but also allow you to enjoy Kardea Brown’s chicken salad in various delightful ways. So, get creative and find your favorite way to serve this delicious dish!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your leftover Kardea Brown’s chicken salad properly is essential to keep it fresh and delicious for later enjoyment. Here’s how to do it right:

Airtight Containers: Transfer any leftover chicken salad into airtight containers. This helps prevent it from absorbing odors from your fridge and keeps it flavorful.
Chill Promptly: Make sure to refrigerate the salad within two hours of serving to maintain food safety and quality. It’s best served chilled, so stick it right in the fridge!
Shelf Life: When stored properly, Kardea Brown’s chicken salad can last in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. After that, the freshness begins to decline, and the texture may change, so aim to enjoy it before that!
Serving Chilled: The salad is meant to be enjoyed cold, so there’s no need to reheat it. Simply take it out of the fridge, give it a good stir, and serve it over fresh greens or in a sandwich.
Quality Retention: If you find the salad has thickened in the fridge, you can loosen it up by stirring in a little extra mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to restore that creamy texture before serving.

By following these storage tips, you can ensure that your Kardea Brown’s chicken salad remains as tasty as the day you made it! Enjoy your delicious leftovers guilt-free, knowing they’re still packed with flavor!

Frequently Asked Questions

As you dive into making Kardea Brown’s chicken salad recipe, you might have a few questions. Don’t worry! Here are some common queries I often hear, along with my answers to help you along the way:

Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken for this salad?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken is perfect for this recipe. It saves time and adds fantastic flavor. Just shred it and you’re good to go!

What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute mayonnaise with additional Greek yogurt or even avocado for a creamy texture. Both will work wonderfully!

How can I make this salad gluten-free?
This chicken salad is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure that any bread or wraps you serve it with are also gluten-free if that’s a concern.

What if I have nut allergies?
No problem! Simply omit the almonds and consider adding sunflower seeds for a nice crunch instead. Your salad will still be delicious!

How do I adjust the serving size for a crowd?
To adjust the serving size, simply multiply the ingredient amounts by the number of servings you need. It’s super easy to scale up for potlucks or gatherings!

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a day in advance! Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. The flavors will meld beautifully while chilling.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! Kardea Brown’s chicken salad holds up well in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prep. Just store it in individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches!

Can I add other vegetables?
Of course! Feel free to add your favorite veggies like diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even sweet corn for extra flavor and color.

How long will leftovers last in the fridge?
When stored properly in an airtight container, your chicken salad should stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. Enjoy it while it’s still at its best!

Hopefully, these FAQs help clear up any uncertainties you might have. Enjoy making and sharing Kardea Brown’s chicken salad—it’s sure to be a hit!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.