Ensalada de Pollo
When I think of summertime gatherings, the first dish that comes to mind is a refreshing Ensalada de Pollo. This easy potato and chicken salad has been a family favorite for as long as I can remember. Picture a sunny afternoon, friends and family gathered around, and everyone digging into this creamy, hearty salad. It’s not just a meal; it’s a memory maker. The flavors meld together beautifully, creating a savory dish that satisfies on so many levels.
Recipe Snapshot
20 mins
20 mins
0 mins
Easy
320 kcal
20 g
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
15 g
Large Pot, Chef’s Knife, Cutting Board, Peeler
The Best Thing About This Ensalada de Pollo
It’s Quick and Easy
One of the best aspects of Ensalada de Pollo is how simple it is to whip up. With just a handful of ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen, you can have this dish ready in no time. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This salad is not only delicious but also versatile for meal prep. You can make it in advance and store it in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to develop even further. Just grab a scoop whenever you’re hungry!
Endless Variations
Another reason I adore Ensalada de Pollo is that it’s incredibly adaptable. You can easily swap in your favorite ingredients, whether that’s different vegetables or a tangy dressing. This flexibility means it never gets boring!
Great for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a picnic, potluck, or a casual dinner, Ensalada de Pollo is always a hit. Its creamy texture and hearty components make it a satisfying dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
Healthier Choice
With wholesome ingredients like potatoes and rotisserie chicken, it’s also a healthier option compared to many other creamy salads. You can enjoy it guilt-free, knowing you’re fueling your body with nutritious food.
Comforting and Satisfying
Lastly, there’s something about the combination of creamy mayonnaise and tender chicken that just feels like a warm hug. It’s comfort food at its finest!
Ensalada de Pollo Shopping List
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making a fantastic Ensalada de Pollo. Each element plays a unique role, creating a symphony of flavors and textures. From the creaminess of mayonnaise to the crunch of celery, these ingredients come together beautifully.
- 1 medium red onion – The sharpness of the onion adds a wonderful contrast to the creamy dressing.
- ¼ cup apple vinegar or lime juice – A splash of acidity that brightens all the flavors.
- 1½ pounds potatoes, boiled, peeled, and diced – These serve as the hearty foundation of the salad.
- ¾ cup diced bell peppers – Their sweet crunch enhances the salad’s texture.
- 3 cups supermarket rotisserie chicken, shredded finely – This adds protein and flavor, and it’s so convenient!
- ¾ cup thinly-sliced celery stalk – Provides a refreshing crunch that balances the creaminess.
- 1 cup mayonnaise – The star of the salad, tying all the flavors together.
Cooking Instructions for Ensalada de Pollo
Making Ensalada de Pollo is just as easy as gathering the ingredients. Follow these straightforward steps, and you’ll have a delicious dish ready to enjoy.
- Start by adding the apple vinegar to a bowl with the red onion. Let it rest for about 10 minutes. This process will mellow out the onion’s sharpness, making it more palatable.
- Once the onions have marinated, discard the vinegar. This step helps to remove excess acidity and ensures the salad isn’t overly tangy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the marinated onion with the remaining ingredients: potatoes, bell peppers, shredded chicken, celery, and mayonnaise.
- Gently fold everything together using a spatula or a large spoon. Be careful not to mash the potatoes; you want to maintain some texture in the salad.
- If you’re not serving the salad immediately, cover it with plastic wrap or a lid and keep it chilled in the refrigerator. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- This salad is best served cold. When you’re ready to enjoy, scoop it right out of the fridge. The mayonnaise can spoil if it sits out too long.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day.
- When serving, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dash of additional vinegar for an added kick.
- Lastly, remember to taste the salad before serving; if it needs a little more flavor, you can adjust salt and pepper to your liking.
Things Worth Knowing
- Boiling Potatoes: It’s essential to boil your potatoes until tender but not mushy. You can test this by poking them with a fork; they should easily break apart.
- Cooling Ingredients: Allow your salad to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. Cold salads often taste better as the flavors have time to combine.
- Choosing Chicken: Using a rotisserie chicken saves time and adds robust flavor. If you prefer, you can also cook and shred your own chicken.
- Serving Suggestions: This salad pairs beautifully with crusty bread or as a filling for sandwiches. Get creative!
Customization Ideas
Feeling adventurous? Here are some fantastic customization ideas for your Ensalada de Pollo:
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best consumed within a day to maintain freshness.
- Freezing: This salad isn’t ideal for freezing due to the mayonnaise; it tends to separate and alter the texture once thawed.
- Pairing: Serve your salad alongside grilled vegetables or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with chickpeas or diced tofu for a vegetarian twist.
- Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat!
- Herbs and Spices: Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can enhance the flavor profile significantly. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorites!
Perfect Pairings for Ensalada de Pollo
Serving Ensalada de Pollo opens up a world of pairing possibilities. Here are some delicious options:
- Crusty Bread: Enjoy this salad with slices of fresh crusty bread on the side for a satisfying meal.
- Grilled Corn: Sweet grilled corn on the cob adds a nice touch and balances the flavors.
- Picnic Favorite: This salad is perfect for picnics or potlucks—just pack it in a cooler, and you’re set!
- Summer Gatherings: It’s an excellent choice for barbecues and summer gatherings where fresh flavors shine.
- Light Lunch: Serve it on a bed of greens for a light, nutritious lunch option.
- Fresh Fruit: Pair it with seasonal fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Ensalada de Pollo is a delightful dish that perfectly combines creamy textures with hearty ingredients. It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that everyone can enjoy. I encourage you to try making this salad the next time you’re looking for something quick yet satisfying. You won’t regret it, and your taste buds will thank you!
Ensalada de Pollo
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Add vinegar to the bowl with the onion and let it rest for 10 minutes. Discard the vinegar. Combine the onion and the remaining ingredients in a large bowl. If you won't serve right away, cover and keep chilled for later. This salad keeps refrigerated for about a day. Once chilled, serve right out of the fridge so the mayonnaise doesn't spoil.
Notes
- The potatoes should be boiled: beforehand with a teaspoon of salt added to the water, or use leftover boiled potatoes.
- Watch the salt: Both mayo and rotisserie chicken already have salt, so taste before adding more.
