### Chicken Salad for Celery Lovers
Chicken salad is an iconic dish that offers endless possibilities for customization, but for enthusiasts of celery, this recipe truly shines. It melds tender chicken with a plentiful amount of crunchy celery, resulting in a revitalizing and fulfilling meal. Here’s how to create the ideal chicken salad that showcases the delightful crispness of celery.
#### Ingredients
– 2 bone-in skin-on chicken breasts (approximately 2 pounds)
– Olive oil
– Kosher salt
– Freshly ground black pepper
– 3 to 4 large ribs celery, finely diced (about 1 1/2 cups)
– 3 scallions, all parts, finely minced
– 1 tablespoon (15 grams) smooth Dijon mustard, plus more to taste
– 3 tablespoons (40 grams) mayonnaise, plus more to taste
#### Directions
1. **Prepare the Chicken**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (176°C). Lightly drizzle the chicken breasts with olive oil and season abundantly with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Arrange them in a baking dish that can retain juices and roast for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 150°F–155°F (65°C–68°C). Let the chicken cool to room temperature.
2. **Dice the Chicken**: After cooling, pull the meat from the chicken breasts and chop it into 3/4-inch (2-cm) pieces. Transfer the diced chicken into a large bowl and season with salt and pepper. Drizzle any juices or drippings from the baking dish over the chicken.
3. **Combine Ingredients**: Add the diced celery and minced scallions to the bowl and mix to incorporate. Then, spoon in the Dijon mustard and stir until thoroughly combined. Add the mayonnaise, mixing until well incorporated. Adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or more Dijon and mayo as desired.
4. **Crispy Chicken Skin (Optional)**: If you wish to include crispy skin pieces in your sandwiches, spread the chicken skin on a baking sheet, season with salt, and bake in a 400°F (205°C) oven for 5 to 10 minutes, until crispy and darker in hue. Cut into strips for garnishing.
#### Serving Suggestions
This chicken salad can be savored in a variety of ways. For a delightful sandwich, toast slider rolls in a bit of butter and fill them with fresh lettuce, a generous portion of chicken salad, and any extra toppings you like, such as thinly-sliced pickles or red pickled onions. Pair with ruffled potato chips for a classic combination.
This recipe not only emphasizes the crunch of celery but also allows for personal tweaks, creating a versatile dish suitable for any occasion. Enjoy your homemade chicken salad that celebrates the joy of celery!