Best 4 Michigan Chicken Salad Recipes

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When it comes to Michigan cuisine, one dish that stands above the rest is the iconic Michigan chicken salad. Known for its delightful blend of flavors and textures, this salad has become a beloved staple at potlucks, picnics, and family gatherings throughout Michigan and beyond. The combination of tender, juicy chicken, crunchy celery and walnuts, and a creamy, tangy dressing creates a taste that is both comforting and refreshing, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. While there are many variations of the recipe, all versions share a commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients and a focus on balancing flavors. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey as we explore the history, ingredients, and preparation methods of this beloved dish, and discover the best recipe for making the ultimate Michigan chicken salad.

Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!

MICHIGAN CHERRY SALAD



Michigan Cherry Salad image

This recipe reminds me what I love about my home state: picking apples with my children, buying greens at the farmers market and tasting cherries on vacations. -Jennifer Gilbert, Brighton, Michigan

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Lunch

Time 15m

Yield 8 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 12

7 ounces fresh baby spinach (about 9 cups)
3 ounces spring mix salad greens (about 5 cups)
1 large apple, chopped
1/2 cup coarsely chopped pecans, toasted
1/2 cup dried cherries
1/4 cup crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
1/4 cup fresh raspberries
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
3 tablespoons cider vinegar
3 tablespoons cherry preserves
1 tablespoon sugar
2 tablespoons olive oil

Steps:

  • In a large bowl, combine the first 6 ingredients., Place raspberries, vinegars, preserves and sugar in a blender. While processing, gradually add oil in a steady stream. Drizzle over salad; toss to coat.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 172 calories, Fat 10g fat (2g saturated fat), Cholesterol 3mg cholesterol, Sodium 78mg sodium, Carbohydrate 21g carbohydrate (16g sugars, Fiber 3g fiber), Protein 3g protein. Diabetic Exchanges

EAT MICHIGAN SALAD



Eat Michigan Salad image

I live in Buckeye country, that's the land of Ohio State University football to the rest of you. We love to tailgate and watch the Bowl games, and are always trying to come up with clever things to do to our biggest rivals up north, the Michigan Wolverines. The cherries and maple in this wonderful salad inspired the name. Enjoy!

Provided by Saveur

Categories     Salad     Green Salad Recipes

Time 30m

Yield 12

Number Of Ingredients 11

½ cup mayonnaise
⅓ cup pure maple syrup
¼ cup white wine vinegar
1 teaspoon white sugar
½ cup vegetable oil
salt and pepper to taste
3 heads butter lettuce - rinsed, and torn
½ cup dried cherries
2 Granny Smith apples, cored and cut into matchsticks
4 ounces goat cheese, crumbled
3 ounces chopped candied pecans

Steps:

  • In the container of a blender, combine the mayonnaise, maple syrup, vinegar, and sugar. Cover and blend on low speed. Gradually pour in the vegetable oil while mixing until fully incorporated. Taste and season accordingly with salt and pepper. Set aside.
  • In a large serving bowl, combine the lettuce, cherries, apples, goat cheese and candied pecans. Toss with just enough of the dressing to coat, then serve with the remaining dressing on the side.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 275.5 calories, Carbohydrate 17.3 g, Cholesterol 10.9 mg, Fat 21.1 g, Fiber 2.1 g, Protein 5.6 g, SaturatedFat 4.8 g, Sodium 140.5 mg, Sugar 12.5 g

TRAVERSE CITY SALAD



Traverse City Salad image

Posted per a request. Traverse City Salad (featuring dried cherries)is served by many Michigan restaurants - each with their own variation. This one is my version for one very healthy salad. Note: The Traverse City area, in northern lower Michigan is known as a major cherry growing area.

Provided by Satisfied Kris

Categories     One Dish Meal

Time 10m

Yield 1 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 8

2 cups mixed greens
1 slice red onion, chopped or separated into rings (or to taste)
3 tablespoons dried cherries (or to taste)
3 tablespoons pecans or 3 tablespoons walnuts, roughly chopped
6 grape tomatoes or 1 small tomatoes, quartered
2 tablespoons blue cheese, crumbled (or to taste)
4 ounces turkey (optional) or 4 ounces chargrilled chicken, cut into strips (optional)
raspberry vinaigrette dressing (bottled)

Steps:

  • Place the mixed greens in a bowl or dish.
  • Sprinkle/place remaining ingredients over the greens.
  • Serve with Raspberry Vinaigrette Dressing.

CHERRY CHICKEN SALAD



Cherry Chicken Salad image

After dining at a cafe in Michigan about 10 years ago, I tried duplicating this scrumptious twist on Chicken Salad at home. The cherries can be ordered on-line these days, which makes it much easier for those of us living where cherries are not readily available. Regular milk can be substituted for buttermilk, if necessary.

Provided by MIABING

Categories     Salad

Time 45m

Yield 4

Number Of Ingredients 9

3 cooked, boneless chicken breast halves, diced
⅓ cup dried cherries
⅓ cup diced celery
⅓ cup toasted, chopped pecans
⅓ cup low-fat mayonnaise
1 tablespoon buttermilk
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
⅓ cup cubed apples

Steps:

  • In a large bowl, combine the chicken, dried cherries, celery, nuts, mayonnaise, milk, salt and pepper and apple if desired. Toss together well and refrigerate until chilled. Serve on toasted cracked wheat bread or croissants.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 263.8 calories, Carbohydrate 12 g, Cholesterol 62 mg, Fat 12.7 g, Fiber 2.3 g, Protein 24.3 g, SaturatedFat 2.3 g, Sodium 355.7 mg, Sugar 7.5 g

Tips:

  • Cook the chicken thoroughly: Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure that it is safe to eat. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
  • Use high-quality mayonnaise: Mayonnaise is a key ingredient in chicken salad, so it's important to use a good-quality brand. Look for a mayonnaise that is made with fresh, simple ingredients and has a creamy, rich flavor.
  • Add your favorite mix-ins: Chicken salad is a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking. Some popular mix-ins include celery, onion, grapes, nuts, and dried fruit.
  • Chill the chicken salad before serving: This will help the flavors to meld and the salad to firm up.
  • Serve the chicken salad on a bed of lettuce or crackers: This will make the salad more refreshing and easier to eat.

Conclusion:

Michigan chicken salad is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. It is also a great way to use up leftover chicken. With its creamy, tangy flavor and variety of mix-ins, Michigan chicken salad is sure to please everyone at your table.

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