Keys Best Chicken Salad (Large-Group Recipe)

This creamy, flavorful chicken salad is a family favorite and perfect for large gatherings, potlucks, or light meals. The combination of tender chicken, crunchy almonds, and fresh vegetables makes this dish a hit every time. This scaled-up recipe serves 12-14 people, making it ideal for group picnics or meals.

Ingredients:

1. 2 cups blanched slivered almonds

2. 2 cups mayonnaise

3. 3 tablespoons lemon juice

4. ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

5. 6 cups chopped, cooked chicken meat (rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken, or leftovers)

6. 3 ribs celery, chopped

Directions:

1. Gather all ingredients.

2. Place the slivered almonds in a frying pan. Toast them over medium-high heat, shaking frequently. Watch carefully, as they burn easily.

3. In a medium bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, and ground black pepper.

4. Toss the chicken, toasted almonds, and chopped celery with the mayonnaise mixture until evenly coated.

5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for a couple of hours for the best flavor. Enjoy your chicken salad as a light meal, on sandwiches, wraps, or on a bed of greens.

Suggestions for Customization and Variations:

Add fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or tarragon for an extra burst of flavor.

For a fruitier twist, mix in some grapes or diced apples for sweetness and texture.

Add cooked pasta to make the salad more filling and serve it as a main dish.

For a chicken Waldorf-style salad, toss in some chopped apples, walnuts, and a little extra lemon juice.

If you prefer a tangy flavor, substitute some of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream.

Spice things up with a dash of curry powder or paprika, or add some diced red onion for a crunch.

This chicken salad is not only easy to prepare but also a perfect dish to customize for any gathering. Whether served in a sandwich, wrap, or as a salad, it's sure to become a favorite at your next meal!