The Ultimate Bridesmaid Chicken Salad: A Southern Classic with Major Grey’s Chutney
Living in Raleigh, North Carolina, I’ve observed a fascinating culinary trend: chicken salad reigns supreme. It’s far more prevalent and celebrated here than I ever experienced in cities like Chicago or Austin. What’s even more intriguing is the widespread popularity of variations on a particular delicacy known as “Bridesmaid Chicken Salad.” This beloved dish traditionally features a distinctive ingredient that elevates it beyond the ordinary: Major Grey’s brand chutney.
The original Bridesmaid Chicken Salad recipe, often designed to feed a large gathering, has been a staple in Southern kitchens for decades. However, for everyday enjoyment, it can be a bit overwhelming. I’ve taken this cherished classic and meticulously scaled it down, transforming it into a perfect recipe for 2 to 4 people. Not only have I adjusted the quantity, but I’ve also lightened it considerably without sacrificing an ounce of its iconic flavor. The secret? A brilliant combination of Greek yogurt mixed with just a touch of mayonnaise, offering the perfect creamy texture with a healthier twist.
What Makes Bridesmaid Chicken Salad So Special?
The exact origin of the name “Bridesmaid Chicken Salad” remains a bit of a mystery, yet it frequently appears in classic Southern cookbooks, particularly those from Junior League organizations. Its unique charm lies in the harmonious blend of savory chicken with the sweet, tangy, and subtly spiced notes of Major Grey’s Chutney. While many traditional versions often call for additional pineapple chunks, a bolder presence of lime juice, and extra lime zest, I’ve found that a slightly more subdued approach to the citrus allows the chutney’s intricate flavors to truly shine. Of course, lime zest and juice are indispensable for brightness, but I recommend adjusting them to your personal taste to achieve that perfect balance. This delicate dance of flavors is what sets Bridesmaid Chicken Salad apart, making it a sophisticated choice for any occasion, from a casual lunch to a bridal shower.
The Magic of Major Grey’s Chutney
Major Grey’s Chutney is not just an ingredient; it’s the heart and soul of this chicken salad. This Anglo-Indian condiment is a fruit chutney, typically made from mangoes, raisins, vinegar, lime, onions, and various spices like tamarind and ginger. Its complex flavor profile—sweet, sour, and mildly spicy—provides an unparalleled depth that transforms simple chicken salad into an extraordinary culinary experience. While other chutneys exist, Major Grey’s has a distinct character that is difficult to replicate, making it worth seeking out for an authentic Bridesmaid Chicken Salad.
Mastering the Chicken for Your Salad
The foundation of any great chicken salad is, naturally, perfectly cooked chicken. The goal is tender, flavorful chicken that can be easily diced or shredded. In the past, I favored using large, bone-in chicken breasts. My method involved sprinkling them generously with Cavender’s Greek seasoning, tucking a small pat of butter under the skin, and roasting them at 350°F for approximately 50 minutes. Roasting chicken on the bone imparts a richer, deeper flavor compared to simply boiling, yielding a moist and succulent result. The slight crispness from the skin also adds a lovely textural element when chopped into the salad. While this method requires more time, the enhanced flavor is often worth the effort.
However, I understand that convenience is key for many home cooks. If time is of the essence, you can certainly use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, poached chicken, or even air-fried chicken breasts. The most important thing is to ensure your chicken is cooled completely before dicing or shredding, as this helps prevent the salad from becoming watery and allows the dressing to adhere better. Uniformly dicing the chicken is also crucial for a consistent texture in every bite.
Speedy & Tender: Instant Pot Chicken for Chicken Salad
For those seeking a quicker, more hands-off approach to cooking chicken, the Instant Pot is an absolute game-changer, producing impeccably tender chicken perfect for chicken salad. While cooking times can vary slightly based on your specific model and chicken size, I’ve perfected a method that consistently works wonders. I typically use small, individually packed chicken breasts, weighing about 3 ½ to 4 ounces each. For these smaller cuts, I place them on a trivet set over 1 cup of water in the Instant Pot.
The cooking process is surprisingly swift: 4 minutes on high pressure, followed by a 10-minute natural pressure release. After the natural release, you can perform a quick release of any remaining pressure. Allow the chicken to rest at room temperature for at least 10 minutes (or even a bit longer) before dicing. This resting period is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness and flavor. For larger or thicker chicken breasts, you’ll need to adjust the cooking time to approximately 8 minutes on high pressure, followed by the same 10-minute natural release and resting period. This Instant Pot method ensures juicy, flavorful chicken every single time, making your Bridesmaid Chicken Salad preparation effortless.
Lightening the Classic: The Greek Yogurt Advantage
One of the key modifications to this Bridesmaid Chicken Salad recipe is the incorporation of Greek yogurt, which significantly lightens the dish without compromising its creamy texture or satisfying flavor. Traditional chicken salads can often be quite rich due to a high mayonnaise content. By replacing a substantial portion of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt, we introduce a vibrant tang and a boost of protein, making the salad feel fresher and more contemporary. Non-fat Greek yogurt works perfectly here, as its thick consistency mimics the richness of mayo, especially when combined with a smaller amount of good-quality mayonnaise. The subtle tartness of the yogurt also plays beautifully with the sweetness and spice of the Major Grey’s Chutney and the brightness of the lime.
This simple swap not only reduces calories and fat but also adds a beneficial probiotic element. It’s a win-win for both taste and health. When selecting your Greek yogurt, ensure it’s plain and unsweetened to avoid altering the savory profile of the salad. If you prefer a slightly richer texture, a low-fat or even full-fat plain Greek yogurt can also be used, though the non-fat option has proven to be an excellent and guilt-free choice.
Assembling Your Perfect Bridesmaid Chicken Salad
Crafting this chicken salad is a straightforward process once your chicken is cooked and cooled. The magic truly happens when all the ingredients come together, allowing their distinct flavors to meld and harmonize. Let’s delve into each component:
- Good Quality Mayonnaise (e.g., Duke’s): The choice of mayonnaise matters. A rich, tangy mayo like Duke’s provides a smooth, creamy base and a subtle sweetness that balances the other flavors. Since we’re using less of it, make sure it’s a brand you love.
- Greek Yogurt (Non-fat is fine): As discussed, this is our secret weapon for a lighter, tangier, and higher-protein dressing. Its thickness ensures the salad remains creamy and satisfying.
- Major Grey’s Chutney: The star of the show. Chop any larger pieces of fruit in the chutney to ensure even distribution and flavor in every bite.
- Curry Powder: This adds a warm, aromatic spice that beautifully complements the chutney. Start with ½ teaspoon and adjust to your preference – some prefer a milder hint, others a bolder curry flavor.
- Fresh Lime Juice & Zest: Fresh is non-negotiable here. The juice provides acidity and brightness, cutting through the richness, while the zest offers an intense burst of citrus aroma. Adjust to taste, as the original recipe sometimes calls for more than needed, which can overpower other ingredients.
- Diced Cooked Chicken Breast: Aim for uniformly diced pieces, about ½ to ¾ inch, for optimal texture and ease of eating. Approximately 10 oz by weight of cooked chicken (from about 14 oz uncooked) yields the perfect amount for this recipe.
- Chopped Celery: Essential for that satisfying crunch and a hint of fresh, earthy flavor that provides a welcome contrast to the creamy dressing.
- Finely Chopped Onions: A small amount of finely chopped onion adds a sharp, pungent kick. You can use white or red onion. If you’re sensitive to raw onion, soak it in cold water for 10 minutes before draining to mellow its flavor.
- Sliced or Slivered Almonds, Toasted (Optional but Recommended): Toasted almonds are a game-changer! They provide a delightful nutty flavor and an irresistible crunch. You can toast them lightly in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant, or spread them on a baking sheet and toast in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
- Salt and Pepper to Taste: Always finish with proper seasoning. Taste as you go and adjust until it’s perfect.
Simply combine all these incredible ingredients in a bowl, mix thoroughly until everything is well coated, and chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to marry. This chilling time is important, as it deepens the taste profile and ensures a refreshing experience.
Serving & Storage Suggestions for Bridesmaid Chicken Salad
Once your Bridesmaid Chicken Salad is perfectly chilled and the flavors have melded, it’s ready to be enjoyed in a variety of ways. This versatile dish is equally at home on a casual lunch spread or as part of a more elegant meal.
- Classic Lettuce Bed: For a light and refreshing meal, serve a generous scoop of chicken salad on a bed of crisp lettuce. Romaine, butter lettuce, or mixed greens work beautifully. You can also garnish with extra toasted almonds for added texture and visual appeal.
- Elevated Sandwiches: Transform your chicken salad into an extraordinary sandwich filling. It’s divine between slices of good quality bread—think a rustic artisan loaf, a soft brioche bun, or even a flaky croissant. The contrast of the creamy, flavorful filling with hearty bread is simply irresistible.
- Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb or gluten-free option, scoop the chicken salad into large, crisp lettuce cups (such as butter lettuce or iceberg). This makes for a fantastic appetizer or a lighter lunch.
- With Crackers or Crudités: Serve it as a dip with an assortment of crackers, pita bread, or a colorful array of fresh vegetables like cucumber slices, carrot sticks, and bell pepper strips. Perfect for entertaining!
- On Top of Avocados: For an extra dose of healthy fats and creaminess, spoon the chicken salad into halved and pitted avocados. A sprinkle of paprika adds a nice touch.
When it comes to storage, Bridesmaid Chicken Salad, like most chicken salads, is best enjoyed fresh but can be safely stored. Place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will typically remain delicious for 3 to 4 days. Due to the fresh ingredients and mayonnaise-based dressing, it’s not recommended for freezing. Always give it a good stir before serving any stored portions, and perhaps a fresh squeeze of lime juice if you find it needs a little lift.
Whether you’re new to the world of chicken salad or a seasoned connoisseur, this Bridesmaid Chicken Salad recipe with Major Grey’s Chutney offers a delightful culinary journey. Its unique blend of flavors, combined with a lighter, scaled-down approach, makes it a perfect addition to your recipe rotation. Enjoy this taste of Southern charm!
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Recipe
Bridesmaid Chicken Salad
Anna
Pin Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 ½ tablespoons good quality mayonnaise (Duke’s is recommended)
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt, nonfat is perfectly fine here
- ¼ cup Major Grey’s Chutney
- ½ teaspoon curry powder (adjust to your taste, more or less)
- 1 splash fresh lime juice (approximately 2 teaspoons, or adjust to your preference)
- ½ teaspoon fresh lime or lemon zest
- 2 cups diced cooked chicken breast (about 10 oz by weight cooked, derived from approximately 14 oz uncooked chicken breast)
- ⅓ cup chopped celery
- ¼ cup finely chopped onions (add more if you enjoy a stronger onion flavor)
- ½ cup sliced or slivered almonds, toasted (optional, but highly recommended for crunch)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced cooked chicken, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Major Grey’s Chutney, curry powder, fresh lime juice, lime or lemon zest, chopped celery, and finely chopped onions. Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and the chicken is evenly coated with the dressing.
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Taste the chicken salad and season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Adjust the lime juice, curry powder, or any other seasoning to your preference.
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If using, gently fold in the toasted sliced or slivered almonds.
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For best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Serve chilled on a bed of fresh lettuce, as a delicious filling for sandwiches made with good quality bread, or alongside crackers or crudités. Garnish with additional toasted almonds if desired.