Introduction to Arlington Chicken Salad

The tropical chicken salad is a satisfying dish that blends lean protein, fresh produce, and a light, creamy dressing. Its ease of preparation and vibrant flavors make it a crowd-pleaser for quick meals or gatherings, as celebrated by The Mediterranean Dish.

Originating in early 20th-century Arlington, Virginia, this salad was crafted from leftover chicken and garden vegetables, evolving into a beloved American classic known for its simplicity and versatility. For more salad ideas, explore our Chicken Salad Recipes.

Origins of the Recipe

Originating in early 20th-century Arlington, Virginia, this salad was crafted from leftover chicken and garden vegetables, evolving into a beloved American classic known for its simplicity and versatility.

Health Benefits of Arlington Chicken Salad

Provides ~25g protein from chicken, vitamins A, C, and K from vegetables, and healthy fats from olive oil, supporting immunity, heart health, and muscle maintenance. At ~300-400 kcal per serving, it’s a filling yet light option, ideal for weight management and balanced eating.

Preparation Steps

Cooking the Chicken

Season 2 chicken breasts with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp pepper, grill in 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat (375°F/190°C) for 7 minutes per side until 165°F (74°C), cool, and dice into bite-sized pieces.

Chopping Vegetables

Chop 1/2 cup celery, 1/2 cup red onions, 1/2 cup bell peppers, and 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes; slice 1 cup cucumbers and dice 1 cup tomatoes for vibrant freshness.

Making the Dressing

Combining Ingredients

In a bowl, mix 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup Greek yogurt, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1 minced garlic clove, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp pepper until smooth, as recommended by Bon Appétit.

Achieving the Right Consistency

Stir until creamy; add water (1 tsp at a time) if too thick, aiming for a spoon-coating texture.

Assembling the Salad

Layering Ingredients

Start with a lettuce base, add diced chicken, then layer vegetables evenly for vibrant color and balanced texture; include optional fruits or nuts for contrast.

Mixing Everything Together

Toss gently with dressing to avoid crushing vegetables, adding herbs and nuts last for flavor and crunch.

Serving Suggestions

Ideal Pairings

Pair with whole-grain crackers, fresh fruits (grapes, berries), vegetable sticks (carrots, celery), or a side of mixed greens for a balanced meal.

Presentation Tips

Variations to Try

Vegetarian Options

Replace chicken with 1 cup chickpeas or cubed tofu, adding extra bell peppers or cucumbers for crunch; explore more in our Vegetarian Recipes.

Spicy Versions

Add 1 tbsp diced jalapeños, 1 tsp hot sauce, 1 tsp spicy mustard, or 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes to the dressing for a zesty kick.

Storage Tips

Refrigeration Guidelines

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator’s coldest part (≤40°F/4°C); avoid leaving out for over 2 hours to prevent spoilage.

Shelf Life

Common Mistakes

Overcooking Chicken

Cook chicken to 165°F (74°C), let rest 5 minutes to retain juices, and dice evenly.

Improper Dressing Balance

Add dressing gradually, tasting to balance sweet, salty, and tangy flavors.

Expert Tips

Ingredient Substitutions

Use rotisserie chicken for convenience, full-fat Greek yogurt for creaminess, or add cucumbers, apples, or pecans for variety.

Time-Saving Techniques

Pre-cook chicken, use pre-cut vegetables, batch-prepare dressing, or multitask by chopping veggies while chicken grills.

Dietary Considerations

Gluten-Free Options

Serve with gluten-free bread or lettuce wraps, ensuring mayonnaise and mustard are gluten-free.

Dairy-Free Adjustments

Use dairy-free mayonnaise, skip yogurt or use a plant-based alternative.

More Chicken Recipes to Try