There’s something truly special about the combination of warmth, crunch, and flavor when pulling apart a freshly baked Honey Butter Biscuit. As the golden crust gives way to a soft and fluffy interior, I can’t help but imagine how perfect these biscuits will be when topped with a creamy Pimento Cheese Chicken Salad. This delightful dish came about on a sunny afternoon, when I had a craving for something comforting but with a twist.
After digging through my pantry and finding leftovers from last night’s roast chicken, I decided to mix things up. The result was a medley of smoky bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and zesty pimentos blending seamlessly with the tender chicken. The harmony between the luscious chicken salad and the sweet, buttery biscuits is nothing short of magical. Perfect for a laid-back lunch or an impressive dinner party spread, this dish is sure to charm anyone who takes a bite. Let’s dive into this delicious and indulging recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a comforting culinary masterpiece!
Why Love Pimento Cheese Chicken Salad?
Pimento Cheese Chicken Salad on fluffy Honey Butter Biscuits is a game changer!
Comforting and Unique: This dish marries the classic flavors of chicken salad with a delightful twist.
Easy to Prepare: Perfect for both kitchen novices and seasoned chefs alike.
Crowd-Pleasing: Great for gatherings; watch everyone dig in!
Versatile Meal: Serve it as a hearty lunch or fancy dinner.
Sweet and Savory: The honey butter adds a lush sweetness that enhances the savory salad.
Treat yourself to this delightful pair and explore more about how to make Honey Butter Biscuits that perfectly complement this irresistible chicken salad!
Pimento Cheese Chicken Salad Ingredients
• A delightful mix to top your Honey Butter Biscuits!
For the Chicken Salad
- Cooked shredded chicken breast – 2 cups provide the protein base for this creamy delight.
- Smoked paprika – 1/2 teaspoon adds a smoky richness that’ll elevate your flavors.
- Salt – 1/4 teaspoon enhances the overall taste, making every bite enjoyable.
- Pepper – 1/4 teaspoon brings a subtle kick that complements the other ingredients.
- Bacon – 6 slices, crumbled, adds a crispy texture and irresistible flavor.
- Green onions – 3, thinly sliced for a fresh crunch that lightens the salad.
- Garlic cloves – 2, minced or pressed, infuse a wonderful aromatic essence.
- Pimentos – 1 (4-ounce) jar, drained, brings a tangy twist that ties it all together.
- White cheddar cheese – 2/3 cup finely grated for a creamy, sharp dimension.
- Plain Greek yogurt – 2/3 cup offers a healthier alternative to mayonnaise with tanginess.
- Mayonnaise – 4 tablespoons keep the salad creamy and luscious.
For Serving
- Arugula – 4 cups, use as a fresh base under the salad for a vibrant color and taste.
- Bread and butter pickles – Add for a sweet crunch that balances the savory chicken salad.
This Pimento Cheese Chicken Salad is destined to shine atop your freshly baked Honey Butter Biscuits, creating a meal that is both heartwarming and sophisticated!
How to Make Pimento Cheese Chicken Salad
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, toss together 2 cups of cooked shredded chicken breast with 1/4 teaspoon each of salt and pepper, plus 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika until well mixed, ensuring each bite bursts with flavor.
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Add Mix-Ins: Stir in 6 slices of crumbled bacon, 3 thinly sliced green onions, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 (4-ounce) jar of drained pimentos, and 2/3 cup of finely grated white cheddar cheese until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
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Make the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together 2/3 cup of plain Greek yogurt and 4 tablespoons of mayonnaise. This creamy mixture will bind your salad beautifully while keeping it light and tangy.
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Fold and Combine: Gently fold the yogurt and mayonnaise dressing into the chicken mixture until everything is well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to maintain the texture of the ingredients.
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Prepare for Serving: To serve, brush your freshly baked Honey Butter Biscuits with more honey butter, create a bed of arugula on top, and spoon generous amounts of the chicken salad over the biscuits. Finish off by adding a few bread and butter pickles for a delightful crunch!
Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of extra smoked paprika for a touch of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Pimento Cheese Chicken Salad Variations
Feel free to personalize this delightful dish by exploring these fun twists!
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Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to bring the heat and excite the taste buds.
Spice lovers will enjoy the warmth this brings to the creamy salad! -
Herbal Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like dill or cilantro for a vibrant flavor boost.
These greens beautifully elevate the dish, providing a fresh and aromatic experience. -
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for an unexpected crunch and nuttiness.
A bit of texture can transform your chicken salad from ordinary to extraordinary! -
Creamy Avocado: Fold in diced avocado for added creaminess and healthy fats.
The mild richness of avocado pairs perfectly with the other ingredients, making every bite luscious. -
Greek Twist: Substitute plain Greek yogurt with tzatziki for a Mediterranean touch.
This swap introduces refreshing cucumber and garlic notes, creating a unique flavor profile. -
Fruit and Nut Medley: Throw in dried cranberries or grapes for a sweet and tart surprise.
The juicy bursts of flavor take this chicken salad to a whole new level of deliciousness! -
Vegetable Medley: Incorporate diced celery or bell peppers for an extra crunch and vibrant color.
These additions not only enhance the texture but also provide a lovely freshness to each bite. -
Cheddar Variety: Swap white cheddar for pepper jack cheese for a cheesier, spicier twist.
This change will keep your taste buds dancing with delightful flavor!
Make Ahead Options
These Pimento Cheese Chicken Salad on Honey Butter Biscuits are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the chicken salad up to 3 days in advance by combining the shredded chicken, spices, bacon, onions, garlic, pimentos, and cheese. Store the mixture in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it fresh and flavorful. To maintain the texture of the chicken salad, add the Greek yogurt and mayonnaise just before serving. For the biscuits, you can make the dough up to 24 hours ahead, refrigerating it tightly wrapped; when ready to bake, cut out the biscuits, brush with honey butter, and follow the baking instructions for delicious results without the last-minute rush. Enjoy a delightful meal with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Pimento Cheese Chicken Salad
• Quality Chicken: Use tender, cooked shredded chicken breast for the best flavor. Overcooked chicken can make the salad dry and tough.
• Bacon Crispiness: Ensure your bacon is crispy before adding it into the mix. Soggy bacon can detract from the overall texture of your Pimento Cheese Chicken Salad.
• Mix Gently: When combining the ingredients, fold gently to keep the salad light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a gummy texture, which isn’t ideal.
• Flavor Enhancements: Taste before serving! Adjust seasonings like salt and smoked paprika to suit your palate; this will elevate the flavors even more.
• Serving Suggestions: For an added crunch, serve with bread and butter pickles on the side. They perfectly complement the sweet and savory notes of the chicken salad.
How to Store and Freeze Pimento Cheese Chicken Salad
Fridge: Store the chicken salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and prevents any odors from affecting its flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken salad in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Defrost in the fridge overnight before using.
Reheating: Since the Pimento Cheese Chicken Salad is best served cold, simply let it come to room temperature or chill it in the fridge before serving on your honey butter biscuits again.
Leftover Biscuits: Store any leftover Honey Butter Biscuits separately at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze them for up to 1 month for future meals.
What to Serve with Pimento Cheese Chicken Salad on Honey Butter Biscuits?
Create a delightful dining experience around these savory bites with a few complementary sides and drinks.
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Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: These easy-to-make fries provide a hint of sweetness and a satisfying crunch next to buttery biscuits.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette balances the richness of the chicken salad.
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Creamy Coleslaw: This tangy slaw adds a delightful crunch and creamy texture, enhancing the dish’s savory goodness.
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Beverage Pairing: Iced Tea: Refreshing sweetened iced tea with a slice of lemon complements the dish’s flavors perfectly and adds a cooling effect.
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Homemade Pickles: Crunchy, tangy pickles bring a welcome contrast to the buttery biscuits, enhancing every bite of chicken salad.
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Berry Dessert Cups: End the meal on a light note with fresh berries topped with whipped cream or yogurt, adding a sweet finish that compliments the dish!
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Chilled White Wine: A light Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc can elevate the meal, perfectly balancing the flavors with a crisp finish.
Enjoy these delightful pairings that will make your Pimento Cheese Chicken Salad on Honey Butter Biscuits even more memorable!
Pimento Cheese Chicken Salad on Honey Butter Biscuits Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for the salad?
I highly recommend using tender, cooked shredded chicken breast. Rotisserie chicken works like a charm if you’re short on time. Avoid overcooked chicken as it can become dry and tough, compromising the creamy texture of your chicken salad.
How do I store leftover Pimento Cheese Chicken Salad?
Keep your chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This method maintains its freshness while protecting it from any unwanted odors in your refrigerator. If you need longer storage, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Just defrost it overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to use it!
Can I freeze the Pimento Cheese Chicken Salad?
Absolutely! For freezing, place your chicken salad into a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, pressing out any air before sealing. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and give it a gentle stir before serving. Note that the texture may slightly change, but the flavors remain delicious.
How long do the Honey Butter Biscuits last?
Leftover Honey Butter Biscuits can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, I recommend freezing them in tightly wrapped foil or in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Just pop them in the oven for a few minutes to revive that warm, fluffy texture when you’re ready to enjoy!
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! To make the Pimento Cheese Chicken Salad on Honey Butter Biscuits gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Make sure to check that your baking powder, and any other pre-made ingredients, are gluten-free as well. It’s delightful for everyone to enjoy!
Are there any dietary considerations for my pets?
While the ingredients in this chicken salad are delicious for human consumption, they aren’t suitable for pets. Avoid feeding your dog or cat any of the ingredients, especially those like onions and garlic that can be harmful. Always check with your vet for the best options for pet-friendly meals!
Pimento Cheese Chicken Salad Loaded on Honey Butter Biscuits
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, toss together cooked shredded chicken breast with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika until well mixed.
- Stir in crumbled bacon, sliced green onions, minced garlic cloves, drained pimentos, and grated white cheddar cheese until evenly distributed.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together plain Greek yogurt and mayonnaise.
- Gently fold the dressing into the chicken mixture until well combined.
- To serve, brush Honey Butter Biscuits with more honey butter, create a bed of arugula, and spoon generous amounts of chicken salad over the biscuits. Add pickles for extra crunch!