Chicken Salad in Baskets

Chicken Salad in Baskets is an elegant and versatile dish that brings together the creamy, flavorful goodness of a well-seasoned chicken salad with a charming, edible basket-style presentation. Whether served in flaky puff pastry shells, crispy phyllo cups, or even savory bread baskets, this dish transforms a classic salad into a showstopping appetizer or light entrée. The tender chicken is mixed with a blend of crunchy vegetables, creamy dressing, fresh herbs, and optional add-ins like grapes or nuts to create a harmonious balance of flavor and texture. Perfect for brunches, baby showers, tea parties, picnics, or even lunchboxes, Chicken Salad in Baskets is a crowd-pleaser that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Elegant Yet Effortless

• The beautiful basket presentation makes this dish perfect for entertaining.
• Easy to make ahead and assemble just before serving for a stress-free event.
• Minimal prep and no complex techniques required.

Flavorful and Textured

• Tender chicken pairs with crunchy celery, crisp apples or cucumbers, and creamy dressing.
• Optional ingredients like nuts, grapes, or herbs add depth and personality to each bite.
• The contrast between the creamy salad and the crisp basket creates a perfect mouthfeel.

Versatile and Customizable

• Works with multiple basket types—puff pastry shells, phyllo cups, tart shells, or even hollowed bread rolls.
• Dressing can be creamy or light depending on preference.
• Adaptable with a variety of flavor profiles, add-ins, and dietary needs.

Perfect for Any Occasion

• Suitable for casual lunches or upscale gatherings.
• Ideal for portion-controlled servings at buffets and parties.
• Great for meal prep—prepare the filling ahead and assemble as needed.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes (for cooking chicken and baking baskets)
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings (12 baskets)
• Serving Size: 1 chicken salad basket

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 220 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Protein: 16g
• Fat: 13g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 3g

Ingredients

For the Chicken Salad

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, finely diced or shredded
• 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
• 1/2 cup seedless grapes, halved (or chopped apple or cucumber for a savory version)
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or almonds (optional)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Creamy Dressing

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard or mild mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Pinch of paprika (optional)

For the Baskets (Choose One Option)

• Puff Pastry Shells: 1 sheet puff pastry, cut into 12 squares, fitted into muffin tins
• Phyllo Cups: 24 phyllo sheets, buttered and layered in muffin tins (3 sheets per cup)
• Bread Baskets: 12 thick bread slices, pressed into muffin tins and toasted
• Savory Tart Shells: 12 mini tart shells, pre-baked

Optional Garnishes

• Chopped herbs
• Paprika sprinkle
• Microgreens or arugula
• Sliced olives or grape halves

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken

• Boil or bake chicken breasts until fully cooked and tender (internal temperature 165°F / 74°C).
• Cool slightly, then dice or shred into small pieces. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Dressing

• In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
• Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

3. Mix the Chicken Salad

• In a large bowl, combine chicken, celery, red onion, grapes (or apples), nuts (if using), and parsley.
• Pour in the dressing and mix gently until well coated.
• Chill in the refrigerator for 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

4. Prepare the Baskets

Option A: Puff Pastry Shells

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cut puff pastry sheet into 12 squares and press into a greased muffin tin.
• Prick bottoms with a fork and bake for 12–15 minutes until golden. Cool before filling.

Option B: Phyllo Cups

• Layer 3 phyllo sheets brushed with butter in muffin tins to form cups.
• Bake at 375°F for 10–12 minutes until crispy and golden. Let cool.

Option C: Bread Baskets

• Flatten thick bread slices with a rolling pin and press into greased muffin tins.
• Brush with butter or olive oil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes until toasted.

Option D: Tart Shells

• Use pre-baked mini tart shells or make from scratch and bake until golden.

5. Assemble the Chicken Salad Baskets

• Spoon chilled chicken salad into each basket generously.
• Garnish with fresh herbs, paprika, or toppings of your choice.
• Serve immediately for crispy texture or chill briefly before serving.

Ingredient Background

Chicken

• A lean and versatile protein, perfect for soaking up flavors.
• Poached or baked chicken breast gives a tender bite without dryness.

Celery and Onion

• Add crunch, freshness, and sharp contrast to creamy dressing.
• Red onion offers color and mild pungency.

Grapes or Apples

• Provide natural sweetness and juicy texture.
• For a savory-only version, omit and use cucumbers or bell peppers.

Nuts

• Toasted walnuts or almonds add crunch and richness.
• Optional, but highly recommended for balanced texture.

Dressing

• Mayonnaise gives creaminess; mustard adds tang and complexity.
• Lemon juice lifts flavors, while garlic and onion powders round out the taste.

Technique Tips

Shred Chicken Finely

• Smaller chicken pieces mix better with dressing and fit into cups easily.
• Use two forks or a hand mixer for shredding large batches quickly.

Chill Salad Before Assembling

• Cold salad holds better in warm pastry cups and prevents sogginess.
• Flavors meld more deeply after resting in the refrigerator.

Bake Cups Until Crisp

• Especially for bread or phyllo, ensure baskets are golden and firm enough to hold filling.

Assemble Just Before Serving

• Fill baskets right before serving to maintain their texture and crispness.
• Keep salad and baskets separate during storage.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Mini Party Bites: Use mini muffin tins for bite-sized baskets, ideal for cocktail parties.
• Lettuce Cups: Serve in butter lettuce or endive leaves for a carb-free option.
• Cucumber Cups: Hollow out thick cucumber slices and fill with salad for a refreshing twist.
• Tortilla Cups: Press tortilla rounds into muffin tins and bake into crispy cups.
• Avocado Halves: Spoon chicken salad into avocado halves for a hearty, low-carb meal.

Additional Tips for Success

• Add salad toppings last minute for best crunch and freshness.
• Double the salad batch and serve some separately on lettuce for guests who prefer a lighter option.
• Use a piping bag for neat, decorative filling in fancy events.
• Pair with soup or fresh juice for a complete light meal.

Recipe Variations

• Mediterranean Chicken Salad: Add olives, cucumber, dill, and feta cheese.
• Spicy Chicken Salad: Stir in chopped jalapeños or chili flakes.
• Curried Chicken Salad: Add curry powder, golden raisins, and chopped cashews.
• Sweet & Savory Mix: Add chopped dates, orange zest, and pistachios.
• Herb Chicken Salad: Mix in tarragon, chives, and thyme for an herbal flavor profile.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigerator

• Store chicken salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep baskets in a separate container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Re-crisp baskets in the oven before serving if needed.

Freezing

• Not recommended for assembled baskets, as texture will degrade.
• Chicken salad (without fresh fruits or vegetables) can be frozen for up to 1 month, but fresh texture is best when made fresh.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo.
• Add extra veggies like shredded carrots, zucchini, or chopped bell peppers.
• Reduce dressing quantity and increase lemon juice for a lighter coating.
• Serve in lettuce wraps or cucumber cups for low-carb version.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Brunch Buffet: Arrange baskets on a tiered tray with fresh herbs.
• Garden Party: Serve alongside fruit salad and tea sandwiches.
• Holiday Appetizer Tray: Add to a spread with dips, cheeses, and crackers.
• Lunchbox Favorite: Pack salad and a separate roll for easy assembly later.
• Tea Party Delight: Present on doily-lined plates with a sprig of dill or parsley.

Special Equipment

• Muffin tin or mini tart molds
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Pastry brush (for phyllo or bread baskets)
• Cooling rack
• Serving platter or tray

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the salad and baskets separately. Assemble just before serving to keep baskets crisp.

2. What kind of chicken works best?

Poached or roasted chicken breast works best for texture and moisture balance.

3. Can I use canned chicken?

Yes, drain and flake well before mixing, though fresh chicken has better flavor.

4. Are these good for kids?

Absolutely—use mini baskets and omit strong flavors like onion for a kid-friendly version.

5. Can I serve the salad warm?

It’s best served chilled or at room temperature. Warm salad can make baskets soggy.

6. What if I don’t have a muffin tin?

Use silicone molds, ramekins, or shape baskets freehand and bake on a tray.

7. Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free mayonnaise or plant-based yogurt.

8. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe scales easily. Just prepare salad and baskets in larger batches.

Conclusion

Chicken Salad in Baskets is a charming, flavorful, and versatile dish that effortlessly combines elegance with ease. Whether you’re hosting a party or preparing a casual lunch, this recipe delivers a beautiful presentation and a delicious combination of textures and flavors. With endless customization options and make-ahead convenience, this dish is sure to become a favorite for every occasion—light, satisfying, and always a delight to serve.

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