What are Calabrian chilis and why are they special?

Calabrian chilis are small, fiery red peppers from the Calabria region of Italy, typically preserved in oil. They are special because they offer a complex flavor profile that's more than just heat; it's fruity, smoky, and slightly salty, bringing a unique depth to dishes like this Calabrian Chili Chicken Salad.

How spicy is this Calabrian Chili Chicken Salad?

The spice level of this Calabrian Chili Chicken Salad can be customized. Using the recommended 2-3 tablespoons of chopped chilis provides a pleasant medium heat. If you prefer it milder, start with 1 tablespoon and remove the seeds. For more heat, add an extra tablespoon or two, or include some of the oil from the jar.

Can I make Calabrian Chili Chicken Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! This Calabrian Chili Chicken Salad is an excellent make-ahead dish. In fact, its flavors deepen and meld wonderfully after a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

What are the best ways to serve Calabrian Chili Chicken Salad?

This versatile Calabrian Chili Chicken Salad can be served in many ways! It's fantastic in sandwiches or wraps, on top of mixed greens as a main course salad, scooped onto crackers or cucumber slices for a snack, or even stuffed into avocado halves for a healthy and satisfying meal.

Calabrian Chili Chicken Salad: 10-Minute Spicy & Flavorful Lunch Recipe

Name: Spicy Calabrian Chili Chicken Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2.5 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (from about 1 large rotisserie chicken breast and thigh); 1/4 cup mayonnaise (or more, to taste); 2-3 tablespoons chopped Calabrian chilis in oil (more or less to taste, depending on desired spice level); 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1/4 cup finely diced celery; 2 tablespoons finely minced red onion; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (optional); 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste

Ingredients

Scale

2.5 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (from about 1 large rotisserie chicken breast and thigh)
1/4 cup mayonnaise (or more, to taste)
2-3 tablespoons chopped Calabrian chilis in oil (more or less to taste, depending on desired spice level)
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/4 cup finely diced celery
2 tablespoons finely minced red onion
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives (optional)
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste

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Instructions

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded or diced cooked chicken, finely diced celery, finely minced red onion, chopped fresh parsley, and chopped fresh chives (if using).
Step 2: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, chopped Calabrian chilis, fresh lemon juice, and Dijon mustard until well combined. Season with salt and black pepper.
Step 3: Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture in the large bowl. Gently fold everything together until the chicken is evenly coated with the spicy, creamy dressing.
Step 4: Taste the Calabrian Chili Chicken Salad and adjust seasoning as needed. You might want a bit more salt, pepper, lemon juice, or even a touch more mayonnaise or chilis to your preference.
Step 5: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and for the salad to chill. This step greatly enhances the taste of your Calabrian Chili Chicken Salad.
Step 6: Serve chilled on your favorite bread, in lettuce cups, with crackers, or as a side dish. Enjoy your vibrant and spicy Calabrian Chili Chicken Salad!

Notes

For best results, allow the chicken salad to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to deepen and meld beautifully. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less Calabrian chilis, or by including a bit of their oil for extra kick.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes (if using pre-cooked chicken)
Category: Main Dishes & Savory Recipes
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 380 kcal
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 550 mg
Fat: 30 g
Saturated Fat: 5 g
Unsaturated Fat: 25 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 8 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 20 g
Cholesterol: 90 mg

Ingredients

Instructions

Notes

Nutrition

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