The Chicken Macaroni Salad with Nestle Cream is a delightful dish perfect for any gatherings or holidays. This delicious salad combines a variety of ingredients to create a perfect balance of flavors. The smooth coating of mayonnaise and table cream gives the macaroni and chicken a rich and creamy texture.

Adding pineapple, cheddar cheese, and a bit of condensed milk provides a sweetness that complements the savory and sour notes, making every bite a filling and bursting with flavor experience. This recipe is a practice in our household that everyone enjoys, from preparing the salad to sharing it as a family.

Unique Flavors and Textures

To make this Chicken Macaroni Salad stand out, the Nestle Table Cream is key. Unlike heavy cream or all purpose cream, it has the right fat content and texture to blend well with other ingredients. The chicken breast adds protein, while green bell peppers and carrots provide essential nutrients and vitamins.

Salt, pepper, and a touch of sweet pickle relish enhance the overall taste, making it a comforting meal. Whether you’re enjoying it as a standalone dish or as part of a larger spread, this macaroni salad is sure to impress. It’s a dish worth learning and perfect for any occasion, embodying the essence of a true family meal.

Macaroni Salad Evolution

Macaroni salad has a history as rich and varied as its flavors. Its origins can be traced back to Italian cuisine, where pasta was a staple in many households. However, the dish we know today as macaroni salad gained popularity in American households thanks to the arrival of immigrants in the late 19th century.

The earliest recorded recipes appeared in American newspapers around 1914, blending the slick oil and vinegar bases of traditional Italian salads with mayonnaise, a new and exciting ingredient at the time. As a more affordable option compared to potato salad, macaroni salad became a favorite at picnics and potlucks, appealing to those seeking both simplicity and flavor.

By the 1930s, macaroni salad had firmly established itself in the American culinary landscape. Recipes began to appear in major publications like the Washington Post, highlighting its versatility and ease of preparation. In the 1980s, boxed kits helped distribute the salad across America, making it a household name.

Over time, the concept of macaroni salad resonated with Filipino cooks, who made simple yet unique changes to suit the local palate. Today, adding chicken and using Nestle cream gives this classic salad a hearty and satisfying twist that delights both young and old alike.

Garlic butter potatoes and dark rye bread are perfect side dishes to complement this creamy, flavorful macaroni salad. The pure and rich taste of garlic butter potatoes, combined with the robust flavors of dark rye bread, makes for a complete and enjoyable meal experience.

Ingredients:

• 500g macaroni pasta
• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
• 1 cup Nestle cream
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, and corn), boiled and drained
• 1 cup pineapple chunks, drained
• 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, cubed
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons pickle relish
• 1 teaspoon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Method:

Cook the Macaroni:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
• Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Prepare the Chicken:

• If not already done, cook the chicken breast by boiling or grilling until fully cooked.
• Let it cool, then shred or dice into bite-sized pieces.

Mix the Salad:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, chicken, mixed vegetables, pineapple chunks, cheddar cheese, and red onion.
• In a separate smaller bowl, mix together the Nestle cream, mayonnaise, pickle relish, and mustard until well combined.

Combine and Season:

• Pour the cream and mayonnaise mixture over the macaroni and chicken mixture.
• Gently toss to ensure all ingredients are well coated.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Chill and Serve:

• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Additional Info About Chicken Macaroni Salad with Nestle Cream

Here is some additional information that you may have to know about Chicken Macaroni Salad with Nestle Cream.

Health Benefits:

• High in Protein: The chicken provides a rich source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and overall body function.
• Nutrient-Dense Vegetables: The inclusion of vegetables like carrots and bell peppers adds fiber, vitamins, and minerals to the dish, supporting digestive health and immune function.
• Healthy Fats: Nestle cream and mayonnaise provide healthy fats in moderation, contributing to satiety and nutrient absorption.
• Antioxidant Boost: Pineapple in the salad adds antioxidants, which help fight inflammation and support a healthy immune system.

Notes:

• Use fresh ingredients for optimal flavor.
• Garnish with fresh parsley for a vibrant touch.
• Adjust seasoning to personal taste.

Nutrition (Per serving):

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 5g

Equipment:

• Large pot
• Cutting board and knife

Substitutes For ingredients

• Healthier: For a healthier twist, use Greek yogurt or cream instead of mayonnaise. These lighter alternatives reduce calories while keeping the dish creamy.
• Vegan: To make the salad vegan, replace chicken with jackfruit. Use vegetable broth to give the unripe jackfruit a meaty texture and mild taste. Swap mayo for vegan mayo.
• Carbs: If you’re on a keto diet, cauliflower is a great substitute for macaroni. Simply steam and cook it with the other ingredients.
• Meat: For a vegetarian version, use canned tuna or just skip the meat altogether. This still provides plenty of protein sources.
• Flavors: Enhance flavors with red bell peppers, green bell peppers, and diced celery for added crunch. You can also use cucumbers or shredded zucchini as additional veggies.
• Sweet: For a fruity touch, raisins can be replaced with dried cranberries or chopped apricots. If you don’t have pineapple tidbits, try diced apples or grapes for a tropical twist.
• Onion: Use green onions or shallots for a milder taste in place of regular onion.

Serving Suggestions

This macaroni salad is best served cold, so ensure it is well-chilled before serving to enhance the refreshing flavors. For an added crunch, garnish with toasted almonds or croutons just before serving, and sprinkle fresh parsley or dill on top for a burst of freshness and color. The fresh herbs not only add visual appeal but also provide antioxidants that can boost your health. Pairing this salad with a light soup or a fresh green salad makes for a complete meal, while serving it in a large, colorful bowl or individual ramekins adds to its visual appeal. Accompanying the salad with garlic bread or dinner rolls complements the creamy texture, providing a satisfying and balanced dining experience.

This creamy and delicious mac and cheese is perfect for those who prefer a gluten-free option or simply want to enjoy a classic dish with fewer ingredients. The recipe utilizes a blend of rich cheeses and a touch of milk to achieve a velvety smooth sauce, coating each macaroni perfectly. It’s an ideal comfort food that can be served as a main dish or a hearty side, making it a versatile addition to any meal.

Storing and Freezing

Homemade chicken macaroni salad can last 3-5 days in the fridge if it is properly stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness. If left at room temperature for over 2 hours, you should discard it, as bacteria grows quickly between 40-140°F. Additionally, if the temperature exceeds 90°F for more than an hour, it’s also best to toss it.

When refrigerating, make sure to fully cover the container with a lid or plastic wrap to retain quality. Use clean serving utensils to prevent contamination and avoid double-dipping. If you’re taking the salad to a picnic, keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to go, or use a portable cooler to keep it chilled until eating.

Why Isn’t My Macaroni Salad Creamy?

One common issue with macaroni salad is it can dry out due to the pasta. If undercooked, the pasta won’t grab the dressing; if overcooked, it becomes soggy. Aim for a balance where the pasta is just right, keeping the macaroni salad creamy with Nestle cream. I check the pasta frequently for the ideal texture to ensure it stays smooth and enjoyable.

How long will chicken macaroni salad last in the fridge?

When making chicken macaroni salad with Nestle cream, it’s essential to know how to store it. Refrigerated, this macaroni salad can last for 3-5 days. Freezing extends its duration to two weeks or 14 days, though it may slightly change the texture and taste.

How long does macaroni salad with mayonnaise last?

When you prepare a macaroni salad recipe with Nestle cream, store it in an airtight container and refrigerate immediately. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to five days. Keeping it in an airtight container preserves the flavors and texture, ensuring your macaroni salad remains delightful.