If you're looking for a delicious and healthy lunch option, look no further than the 1/2 cup Cranberry Almond Chicken Salad. This tasty dish contains only 140 calories, making it a perfect choice for those who are watching their weight.
In addition to being low in calories, this chicken salad is also high in protein, with about 16 grams per serving. It's also a good source of healthy fats, with 6 grams of monounsaturated fat and 3 grams of polyunsaturated fat. On top of all that, this salad is packed with vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, and folate.
In this article, we'll take a closer look at the nutritional benefits of the Cranberry Almond Chicken Salad, as well as provide some tips and suggestions for preparing and serving this tasty dish.
Calorie Count
As mentioned earlier, the 1/2 cup Cranberry Almond Chicken Salad contains only 140 calories, which makes it a great choice for those who are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.
Protein Content
This chicken salad is an excellent source of protein, with about 16 grams per serving. This is important for maintaining and building muscle, as well as keeping you feeling full and satisfied throughout the day.
Carbohydrate Content
The Cranberry Almond Chicken Salad is relatively low in carbohydrates, with only 8 grams per serving. This makes it a good choice for those who are following a low-carbohydrate diet.
Fat Content
While the Cranberry Almond Chicken Salad does contain some fat, it's mostly healthy fats like monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. In fact, a serving of this chicken salad contains 6 grams of monounsaturated fat and 3 grams of polyunsaturated fat, which can help promote heart health when consumed in moderation.
Health Benefits
In addition to being low in calories and high in protein, the Cranberry Almond Chicken Salad also contains a range of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, and folate. These nutrients can help support immune function, cognitive health, and more.
Ingredient List
To make the Cranberry Almond Chicken Salad, you will need the following ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Preparation Tips
To make the Cranberry Almond Chicken Salad, follow these simple steps:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, dried cranberries, sliced almonds, and chopped red onion.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until everything is well coated.
- Refrigerate the salad for at least an hour before serving so that the flavors have a chance to meld together.
Serving Suggestions
There are many ways to enjoy the Cranberry Almond Chicken Salad. Here are a few serving suggestions to get you started:
- Serve the chicken salad on a bed of lettuce or mixed greens for a healthy and satisfying lunch.
- Make a sandwich with the chicken salad and your favorite bread or roll.
- Use the chicken salad as a dip for fresh vegetables or pita chips.
This Cranberry Almond Chicken Salad contains nuts (almonds) and dairy (Greek yogurt), so it may not be suitable for those with nut allergies or lactose intolerance. If you have any concerns about allergens, be sure to check the ingredient list carefully and consult with your healthcare provider.
Storage Suggestions
The Cranberry Almond Chicken Salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
FAQs about Cranberry Almond Chicken Salad
1. What are the ingredients in Cranberry Almond Chicken Salad?
The main ingredients in Cranberry Almond Chicken Salad are cooked chicken, dried cranberries, almonds, mayonnaise, celery, and seasonings.
2. Is Cranberry Almond Chicken Salad healthy?
Cranberry Almond Chicken Salad can be a healthy option if made with low-fat mayonnaise and a moderate amount of dried cranberries and almonds. However, it is still high in calories, so it should be eaten in moderation.
3. How can I use Cranberry Almond Chicken Salad?
Cranberry Almond Chicken Salad can be used in sandwiches, wraps, on top of salads, or even as a dip. It is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways.
4. How should I store Cranberry Almond Chicken Salad?
Cranberry Almond Chicken Salad should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
5. Can I make Cranberry Almond Chicken Salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Cranberry Almond Chicken Salad ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use. This makes it a great option for meal prepping or for entertaining guests.