By Dr. Leah Alexander | Published on June 9, 2023 | Last Updated on November 27, 2023
Did you ever try the most popular dish, Fancy Nancy Chicken Salad? This mouthwatering yet healthy salad is made with shredded chicken breast and other herbs.
There’s something about the combination of crunchy vegetables and creamy dressing that makes Fancy Nancy Chicken Salad a crowd favorite.
This savory dish is easy to make and can be served as a side or main course, depending on your preference. You should try this Fancy Nancy Chicken Salad dish at least once in your life because it’s simply delicious and always a hit.
You can serve this salad as an appetizer or side dish for any gathering, or enjoy it for lunch or dinner. However, read this article till the end to learn how to make this food at home.
What Is Fancy Nancy Chicken Salad?
Fancy Nancy Chicken Salad is a classic dish made with shredded chicken, apples, grapes, celery, and pecans. This popular recipe is creamy, crunchy, and full of flavor. Moreover, it’s easy to make and doesn’t require too much time or effort.
The combination of juicy apples with the creamy mayonnaise dressing makes this dish a total hit. Besides being delicious, it’s also a healthy choice, as it’s packed with proteins and vitamins.
Where Did I First Try Fancy Nancy Chicken Salad?
I first tried Fancy Nancy Chicken Salad at the national favorite restaurant chain, Chicken Salad Chick. I was in the mood for something light and fresh yet satisfying, and their Fancy Nancy Chicken Salad fits the bill perfectly.
When I took my first bite, I was amazed at how delicious it was! The chicken was moist and tender, the apples were crunchy, the grapes juicy, and the celery flavorful. But what really blew me away was the creamy mayonnaise dressing. It was the perfect match for the chicken and veggies.
I’ve been eating Fancy Nancy Chicken Salad from Chicken Salad Chick ever since! It’s always so flavorful, and I know I can always count on them to deliver a delicious salad that’s sure to satisfy my cravings.
Not only is it tasty, but it’s also a healthier option than most other fast-food salads. It has plenty of protein to fill me up, plus some crunchy vegetables that provide extra vitamins and fiber.
Plus, the portions are generous enough for two people, so I often order one salad to share with my friends. We enjoy getting together over a delicious meal, and I’m always proud to share my favorite dish with them.
All in all, Fancy Nancy Chicken Salad from Chicken Salad Chick is one of the best salads I’ve ever had. It’s always so flavorful and satisfying, and that creamy mayonnaise dressing really takes it to the next level.
However, as a recipe developer, I’ve learned how to make this dish at home. The recipe I’ve shared below will give you a delicious Fancy Nancy Chicken Salad that’s comparable to the one you love from Chicken Salad Chick.
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Ingredients
- Shredded Chicken: Proper amount of shredded chicken is essential for this recipe. You can use either rotisserie or freshly cooked chicken.
- Salt: A bit of salt is needed to enhance the flavor of this dish.
- Pepper: You can use freshly ground or coarsely cracked pepper in your Fancy Nancy Chicken Salad.
- Apples: Red apples work best, but feel free to get creative and try different types!
- Grapes: Use seedless grapes for a sweeter taste.
- Celery: Slice the celery stalks into small pieces for the perfect crunch.
- Pecans: Toasted pecans add a delicious nutty flavor to this recipe.
- Mayonnaise: Use low-fat mayonnaise for a healthier version of the Fancy Nancy Chicken Salad.
Cooking Directions
Step 1
Start by adding the chicken to a large bowl. Add ¼ teaspoon of salt and pepper. Mix with a spoon until the seasoning is evenly distributed.
Step 2
Cut up the apples into small cubes, about ½ inch square, then add them to the bowl along with the grapes and celery.
Step 3
Chop the pecans into small pieces and add them to the bowl. In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and ranch seasoning until well combined.
Step 4
Add the dressing to the chicken mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated. Serve the Fancy Nancy Chicken Salad chilled, or store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Tips
- Use freshly cooked chicken, not canned or precooked chicken, for the best results.
- Cut all the ingredients into equal-sized pieces so each bite is full of flavor and texture.
- Toast the pecans in a skillet to bring out their nutty flavor before adding them to the salad mix.
- Mix the dressing ingredients together before adding it to the salad so that all the flavors are well combined.
- Serve this Fancy Nancy Chicken Salad chilled for a refreshing taste.
What Ingredients Can I Replace or Substitute While Making It?
- If you want to make a healthier version of Fancy Nancy Chicken Salad, you can easily substitute or replace some of the ingredients.
- Instead of regular mayonnaise, you can use low-fat Greek yogurt or light mayonnaise for a lighter dressing.
- Substitute the pecans with pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds to give your salad an extra crunch.
- Replace the grapes with dried cranberries or raisins for a sweeter flavor.
- Add some chopped bell peppers or carrots for more color and flavor.
- You can also use cooked quinoa instead of chicken if you want to make a vegetarian version of Fancy Nancy Chicken Salad.
- If you have an aversion to mayonnaise, substitute it with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a tasty vinaigrette dressing.
Fancy Nancy Chicken Salad Recipe
Equipment
- Large Bowl
- spoon
- knife
Ingredients
- 1 cup of vibrant red seedless grapes cut into quarters, offering bursts of fruity juiciness and a pop of color.
- 1/2 teaspoon of delicate salt enhancing the flavors of the dish and bringing a subtle savory note.
- 1/2 teaspoon of aromatic black pepper adding a touch of mild spiciness and a hint of warmth.
- 1 cup of crisp and juicy Fuji or Honeycrisp apples lending a refreshing sweetness and a delightful crunch.
- 3 teaspoons of flavorful ranch seasoning infusing the dish with a tangy and herby taste that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
- 1 cup of freshly chopped celery providing a refreshing and crisp element to balance the flavors and add a subtle hint of earthiness.
- 4 tablespoons of chopped pecans delivering a rich and nutty flavor, as well as a pleasant crunch.
- 8 cups of tender and succulent shredded chicken providing a generous amount of protein and a satisfying meaty texture.
- 2 cups of creamy and velvety mayonnaise binding all the ingredients together and imparting a smooth and indulgent texture.
Instructions
- Start by adding the chicken to a large bowl. Add ¼ teaspoon of salt and pepper. Mix with a spoon until the seasoning is evenly distributed.
- Cut up the apples into small cubes, about ½ inch square, then add them to the bowl along with the grapes and celery.
- Chop the pecans into small pieces and add them to the bowl. In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and ranch seasoning until well combined.
- Add the dressing to the chicken mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated. Serve the Fancy Nancy Chicken Salad chilled, or store it in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Notes
- Use freshly cooked chicken, not canned or precooked chicken, for the best results.
- Cut all the ingredients into equal-sized pieces so each bite is full of flavor and texture.
- Toast the pecans in a skillet to bring out their nutty flavor before adding them to the salad mix.
- Mix the dressing ingredients together before adding it to the salad so that all the flavors are well combined.
- Serve this Fancy Nancy Chicken Salad chilled for a refreshing taste.
Nutrition Information
Fancy Nancy Chicken Salad is full of healthy ingredients and it’s a great option for those looking for a light meal. Each serving contains approximately:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Protein: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Vitamin A: 8%
- Vitamin C: 10%
- Calcium: 6%
- Iron: 6%
How to Store Leftover Fancy Nancy Chicken Salad?
Any leftover Fancy Nancy Chicken Salad should be stored in an airtight container and kept in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days, but it’s best to consume it within one day of making it. Reheat your leftovers before serving them for a delicious meal every time.
You can also make extra servings of this dish and freeze them for up to three months. Thaw your leftovers in the refrigerator overnight before reheating them for a tasty meal.
FAQs
Can pregnant women eat this?
Yes, pregnant women can eat Fancy Nancy Chicken Salad as long as it’s been prepared with fresh ingredients. Be sure to check the expiration date of all the ingredients before using them in this recipe.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely make Fancy Nancy Chicken Salad ahead of time. Prepare the and store them in separate containers until you’re ready to assemble them. When it’s time to serve, just mix everything together with the dressing.
Is it gluten-free?
Yes, Fancy Nancy Chicken Salad is gluten-free. This dish does not contain any ingredients that contain gluten and it’s safe for those with a gluten intolerance or sensitivity to enjoy.
Can I make this without mayonnaise?
Yes, you can make Fancy Nancy Chicken Salad without mayonnaise. Use olive oil and balsamic vinegar instead for a tasty vinaigrette dressing. You can also use yogurt or light mayonnaise for a healthier version of the recipe.
Wrapping Up
As you have seen making this Fancy Nancy Chicken Salad is really easy, and with a few simple ingredients you can create something delicious.
The combination of the flavors of the salad makes it an excellent choice for lunch or dinner. You can add some extra crunch with toasted nuts and dried fruits and give it your own twist by adding different vegetables. With this recipe, you’ll be sure to impress and satisfy their taste buds.
Try this out and let us know how it turned out for you. Please share this recipe with your friends and family.
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Dr. Leah Alexander, M.D., is a board-certified Pediatrician in New Jersey and has been working at Elizabeth Pediatric Group of New Jersey since 2000.
She also has a passion for culinary arts that extends beyond the medical realm. After completing culinary school at the French Culinary Institute, she started Global Palate, LLC, a catering firm, in 2007. She ran her own six-year-old catering company and served small group parties as an owner and executive chef.
