Chicken Salad

[davem4616]

okay, totally not sure if this is the right subset of this forum to post this in...but I can't seem to find another appropriate one...so here goes and the moderators will reassign it if needed

my wife has Alzheimer's... so I'm doing all of the meal prep, cooking, menu planning and buying, etc...no big deal, I signed on for life, she's the love of my life. We both liked to cook and we took many cooking classes together over the years...so I know how to cook

however...now I'm faced with taking care of 'the left overs'....lol... in the past that was always way above my pay grade thankfully....lol

so, a meal that we make often is 'Basil Chicken'...chicken breasts with skin on and bone in, and we stuff about 8 basil leaves under the skin of each breast....fantastic taste

anyway...there's always a lot of chicken left over....which in the past my wife made into chicken salad for sandwiches.

so here's my question....should I just rough chop the left over chicken and leave it in big chunks, or should I fine chop the chicken for the sandwiches....yes I'm going to add celery and mayo

hey...what can I say...I was always the chef or the sous chef and never had to bother with the leftovers (I'd always help with the drying of the dishes though)

thanks for any advice you may share...

it's tougher than I ever thought it would be being 'the care taker'...and I just want to be able to please my wife with a great chicken salad sandwich. We go on picnics a lot now that covid-19 is here...it gets us out.

I am so grateful that we are in TV...there are so many folks that will help....and it truly does make a huge difference. We are blessed that our church family is so great...and that we have 1st cousins living in TV

And this forum gives me a lot of joy...and a break from being "on" 24x 7

please, just tell me how you chop the left over chicken for sandwiches...it's really just that darn simple of a question...and I feel silly reaching out on this, but I am :)

[Stu from NYC]

Remove the skin of course.

Chop chicken in size you want it, add celery and mayo and in my case yellow mustard and pepper. Sometimes some chopped up onion and pickles.

One of my favorites and will make a batch and eat it for days.

[davem4616]

Remove the skin of course.

Chop chicken in size you want it, add celery and mayo and in my case yellow mustard and pepper. Sometimes some chopped up onion and pickles.

One of my favorites and will make a batch and eat it for days.


thank you...what size do you usually chop to 1/2 inch, 1/4 inch??

[Boomer]

Chicken salad is one of my standards. In fact, it rarely starts with leftovers. Those skinless, boneless chicken breasts get gently blasted in a pressure cook for just a few minutes.

(I used to poach them but now it is always the pressure cooker.)

Then the chicken gets shredded. I just use forks to do the shredding because I do not want the chicken to be too smooth — just a rough shred. Chopping would work fine, too.

I use tarragon, celery, and Hellmann’s.

My mom sometimes put grapes and nuts in chicken salad and served it on a lettuce leaf, on a pretty plate, for her bridge club. But I don’t play bridge.

[asianthree]

How did your wife make her chicken salad. As you being the care giver, consistency in everyday life helps.

Large chunks are harder to chew. I dice onion, celery, and chicken all same size, add condiments, I use dukes mayo, and refrigerate overnight.

[caberkner]

Yum, sounds so refreshing! I like to chop mine pretty small so the chicken isn't dry. I use mayo and pickle relish and when I am feeling a little spicy add either a hot mustard or a little buffalo sauce. I am sure she will love it no matter what you do!

[davem4616]

Chicken salad is one of my standards. In fact, it rarely starts with leftovers. Those skinless, boneless chicken breasts get gently blasted in a pressure cook for just a few minutes.

(I used to poach them but now it is always the pressure cooker.)

Then the chicken gets shredded. I just use forks to do the shredding because I do not want the chicken to be too smooth — just a rough shred. Chopping would work fine, too.

I use tarragon, celery, and Hellmann’s.

My mom sometimes put grapes and nuts in chicken salad and served it on a lettuce leaf, on a pretty plate, for her bridge club. But I don’t play bridge.


ahh...tarragon...now that's different. thank you

[davem4616]

How did your wife make her chicken salad. As you being the care giver, consistency in everyday life helps.

Large chunks are harder to chew. I dice onion, celery, and chicken all same size, add condiments, I use dukes mayo, and refrigerate overnight.

Dukes is my favorite mayo down here....

good call to ask how my wife used to make it...thanks!

[BS Beef]

I’d just like to throw in my vote for fine chopped. Better to spread the mayo around. And let’s be honest, that’s the best part. :a040::a040:

[Stu from NYC]

thank you...what size do you usually chop to 1/2 inch, 1/4 inch??

Never measured it but approximately 1/4 x 1/4.

[Michael Charles]

I prefer shredded chicken for my chicken salad. Just like at fresh market. I simply cut it in strips along the fibers (if you will) then I hand tear (rip/pull) it then S & P, mayo, a touch of brown mustard, celery salt then 3 drops of Worcestershire sauce, yes Worcestershire sauce.

[queasy27]

I grill chicken breasts specifically to make salad. I don't like large chunks so do a pretty fine 1/8 inch dice. Same size as the celery. I often eat it as a croissant sandwich, but add chopped walnuts if I'm having a scoop by itself. Condiments of choice are Miracle Whip and spicy mustard.

For those who sometimes just want a quick meal, the offerings at Chicken Salad Chick (https://www.chickensaladchick.com/the-villages/) on Bichara are good if a bit spendy.

[Kathe]

You are a wonderful man and she is a lucky lady!

[sdeikenberry]

I'm the guy in the house and do all the cooking too, so can appreciate your question. One thing I find helpful is Allrecipes | Food, friends, and recipe inspiration (https://www.allrecipes.com/) You can search for anything you like and there are a lot of helpful recipes from everyday people. Also many videos showing how to do stuff.

[sharonl7340]

As a former caregiver for my mom, I would suggest making the chicken as small as possible because your wife may have issues chewing it. I personally love it when it is chunks, but my mom would never have managed it. Chop it all up in very small pieces to make it as easy as possible for your wife. Everyone here focused on your recipe (although I love the use of tarragon in yours), but I focused on the fact your wife has ALZ and I remember how hard it was to get mom to eat. We eventually ended up pureeing everything to get her nourishment.

[Robyn1963]

It’s a personal preference. I like my chicken salad with smaller almost pulled pieces. I also add shaved lettuce, carrot, red onion and toasted almonds.

[Nannyof3]

I like to shred it using 2 forks or just my fingers.


okay, totally not sure if this is the right subset of this forum to post this in...but I can't seem to find another appropriate one...so here goes and the moderators will reassign it if needed

my wife has Alzheimer's... so I'm doing all of the meal prep, cooking, menu planning and buying, etc...no big deal, I signed on for life, she's the love of my life. We both liked to cook and we took many cooking classes together over the years...so I know how to cook

however...now I'm faced with taking care of 'the left overs'....lol... in the past that was always way above my pay grade thankfully....lol

so, a meal that we make often is 'Basil Chicken'...chicken breasts with skin on and bone in, and we stuff about 8 basil leaves under the skin of each breast....fantastic taste

anyway...there's always a lot of chicken left over....which in the past my wife made into chicken salad for sandwiches.

so here's my question....should I just rough chop the left over chicken and leave it in big chunks, or should I fine chop the chicken for the sandwiches....yes I'm going to add celery and mayo

hey...what can I say...I was always the chef or the sous chef and never had to bother with the leftovers (I'd always help with the drying of the dishes though)

thanks for any advice you may share...

it's tougher than I ever thought it would be being 'the care taker'...and I just want to be able to please my wife with a great chicken salad sandwich. We go on picnics a lot now that covid-19 is here...it gets us out.

I am so grateful that we are in TV...there are so many folks that will help....and it truly does make a huge difference. We are blessed that our church family is so great...and that we have 1st cousins living in TV

And this forum gives me a lot of joy...and a break from being "on" 24x 7

please, just tell me how you chop the left over chicken for sandwiches...it's really just that darn simple of a question...and I feel silly reaching out on this, but I am :)

[J1ceasar]

Another great thing to make simply:
Chicken pot pies
Premade shell
Chicken cut up
One can mixed vegetables don't drain!
One can of cream of chicken OR cream of mushroom . no need to add water if you use the vegetables from can.
One hour at 350 in oven
Use a tin pie pan and place onto a metal tray for easy cleanup
Place a little tin foil on edges or use a Silicon ring .
Good for a week in refrigerator
Can microwave leftovers 2 minutes .easy peasy . season to taste before cooking . . I use oregano or a Italian spice mix and salt pepper

[J1ceasar]

And bless you .don't forget to take care of yourself too .

[bobdelange]

I know where you are coming from. My wife who passed away three years ago, had altzheimers. I likewise took care of her, mostly, although the last few months Cornerstone Hospise was a great help.Now, as far as the salad, I would suggest that you fine chop it, since there is a good likelihood that your wife at some point will have difficulty eating, and the softer and more fluid something is, the better it will go down.Best wishes...

[jlo2012]

I like to chop mine fairly small. It mixes better. Thank you for being such a good husband to your wife.

[Girlcopper]

thank you...what size do you usually chop to 1/2 inch, 1/4 inch??
I cut mine into very small chunks and actually mush (is that a word?) the dressing into the chicken with a fork making it into almost a slightly chunky paste. It just depends on how big of chunks you like and the texture you prefer. I make my dressing by mixing mayo, couple of spoonfulls of honey and some minced garlic to taste. Blend that into the chicken and then add in chopped walnuts with some halved grapes. Its really delicious. Oh yeah, salt n pepper too. My other way is just mayo, celery, diced onions n lots of blk pepper n little salt. Both ways are great

[Jewelz]

I like to shred mine with my fingers! I also love to add a boiled egg or two, sometimes grapes cut in half and also toasted walnuts (put in cold dry pan then cook on medium and toss till they start to get light brown!

[graciegirl]

thank you...what size do you usually chop to 1/2 inch, 1/4 inch??

For sandwiches, cut smaller.

We like it on a plate with a little lettuce underneath to eat with it and make it look pretty. I like to add generous amounts of Hellmann's Mayonnaise, a tablespoon or two of grated cheddar cheese, finely cut onion and maybe some nice grapes halved.

I know we all worry about Alzheimers changing our lives and taking our loved ones away.. Sending kind and caring thoughts to the both of you from the both of us.

[MIskra]

You are a wonderful man and she is a lucky lady!

I second that!

[Alana33]

I like to add curry and raisins to my chicken salad along with finely diced celery, onions, Hellman's mayo and a tad of mustard. I prefer to have the chicken in smaller pieces.
Chicken Ala King is easy to make and goes well over rice, mashed potatoes or stuffing.
Hope all goes well for you and your wife.

[jswirs]

okay, totally not sure if this is the right subset of this forum to post this in...but I can't seem to find another appropriate one...so here goes and the moderators will reassign it if needed

my wife has Alzheimer's... so I'm doing all of the meal prep, cooking, menu planning and buying, etc...no big deal, I signed on for life, she's the love of my life. We both liked to cook and we took many cooking classes together over the years...so I know how to cook

however...now I'm faced with taking care of 'the left overs'....lol... in the past that was always way above my pay grade thankfully....lol

so, a meal that we make often is 'Basil Chicken'...chicken breasts with skin on and bone in, and we stuff about 8 basil leaves under the skin of each breast....fantastic taste

anyway...there's always a lot of chicken left over....which in the past my wife made into chicken salad for sandwiches.

so here's my question....should I just rough chop the left over chicken and leave it in big chunks, or should I fine chop the chicken for the sandwiches....yes I'm going to add celery and mayo

hey...what can I say...I was always the chef or the sous chef and never had to bother with the leftovers (I'd always help with the drying of the dishes though)

thanks for any advice you may share...

it's tougher than I ever thought it would be being 'the care taker'...and I just want to be able to please my wife with a great chicken salad sandwich. We go on picnics a lot now that covid-19 is here...it gets us out.

I am so grateful that we are in TV...there are so many folks that will help....and it truly does make a huge difference. We are blessed that our church family is so great...and that we have 1st cousins living in TV

And this forum gives me a lot of joy...and a break from being "on" 24x 7

please, just tell me how you chop the left over chicken for sandwiches...it's really just that darn simple of a question...and I feel silly reaching out on this, but I am :)

I was the caregiver for my wife for 8.5 years. What you are doing is very admirable, I know all about it. You will not regret it. God Bless!

[La lamy]

Good for you for taking on the caretaker role with such a difficult disease to face. I'm sure you've figured the size of chunks with all these responses, and I thank you for the reminder of how nice a picnic outing is. Will do that myself soon!

[DeafDeaf]

Easy, use the Vitamix, and make a chicken smoothie with all veggies. Easy!

:a040:

:a040:

:a040:

[davem4616]

I know where you are coming from. My wife who passed away three years ago, had altzheimers. I likewise took care of her, mostly, although the last few months Cornerstone Hospise was a great help.Now, as far as the salad, I would suggest that you fine chop it, since there is a good likelihood that your wife at some point will have difficulty eating, and the softer and more fluid something is, the better it will go down.Best wishes...

Thank you....she's eating okay now, no issues but good advice for the future

[William S. Cook]

What is the time period for safe eating from original preparation?

[Twoprecise]

Bless you for caring for your wife. This is such a difficult journey and Alzheimer’s is such a cruel disease. My husband is the cook in our home but he makes a delicious chicken salad. Chop the chicken very small making it much easier to eat. Cut dark red seedless grapes in half and add those along with some chopped smoked almonds. Mix with some mayo and there you go. Delicious. She will love it.

[davem4616]

Thanks for responding everyone with helpful suggestions and encouragement....life is still 'glass half full' for us both

[kcrazorbackfan]

Definitely fine chopped with mustard, mayo and pickle relish. Celery if you want, I never put it in mine.

[TomPerry]

I chop the chicken into small pieces (about 1/8”) and cut the celery super-fine (cut stalk into 6 strips and slice into smallest pieces possible, adds more flavor). Add chopped walnuts or pecans and chopped up dried cranberries. Add mayo as you like. Serve in sandwiches or on Romain lettuce. You also can substitute yogurt for mayo. Salt and pepper as needed.

[lsauls7537]

I cut into 1/4 inch dice, may also be easier for wife to eat as well. I add celery, mayo and sometimes dried cranberries and grapes.

Another really easy recipe is to add 1/4 inch dice chicken to white sauce, add some frozen peas and you've got a quick ala king you can just serve over buttered toast for a quick lunch. Ask away for your questions, we're all bored and would love to help!


okay, totally not sure if this is the right subset of this forum to post this in...but I can't seem to find another appropriate one...so here goes and the moderators will reassign it if needed

my wife has Alzheimer's... so I'm doing all of the meal prep, cooking, menu planning and buying, etc...no big deal, I signed on for life, she's the love of my life. We both liked to cook and we took many cooking classes together over the years...so I know how to cook

however...now I'm faced with taking care of 'the left overs'....lol... in the past that was always way above my pay grade thankfully....lol

so, a meal that we make often is 'Basil Chicken'...chicken breasts with skin on and bone in, and we stuff about 8 basil leaves under the skin of each breast....fantastic taste

anyway...there's always a lot of chicken left over....which in the past my wife made into chicken salad for sandwiches.

so here's my question....should I just rough chop the left over chicken and leave it in big chunks, or should I fine chop the chicken for the sandwiches....yes I'm going to add celery and mayo

hey...what can I say...I was always the chef or the sous chef and never had to bother with the leftovers (I'd always help with the drying of the dishes though)

thanks for any advice you may share...

it's tougher than I ever thought it would be being 'the care taker'...and I just want to be able to please my wife with a great chicken salad sandwich. We go on picnics a lot now that covid-19 is here...it gets us out.

I am so grateful that we are in TV...there are so many folks that will help....and it truly does make a huge difference. We are blessed that our church family is so great...and that we have 1st cousins living in TV

And this forum gives me a lot of joy...and a break from being "on" 24x 7

please, just tell me how you chop the left over chicken for sandwiches...it's really just that darn simple of a question...and I feel silly reaching out on this, but I am :)

[JulieER]

I do mine on the small side so it can be used either way. Then mayo, S&P, celery, onion, cut up grapes and pineapple.

[jacRI]

I agree to make the size appropriate to her ability to chew. I personally like adding chopped walnuts and craisins for a little sweetness. P

[tabasile]

I'd say no bigger than your thumbnail for the size of the chopped chicken. What size does your wife like?
You're not alone. There are tons of us out there who are now the caretakers. I'm now the jack of all trades, cleaning garages, paying bills, putting salt in the water softener, changing out the propane tanks on the grill, buying and spreading the fertilizer on the lawn, automobile minder, nurse, and then the daily usual, cooking more than I ever imagined (and cleanup), laundry, more laundry, pill dispenser, answering the same questions over and over, wishing you could roll back the clock 20 years....well, you know the list goes on. I remind myself, that I would be doing all these things if I were alone, but I'm not. Missing the feeling of having an equal partner. Now I know why couples die within days of each other, the caregiver goes first.
Wishing you good health, strength, and mental fortitude. Again, chop the chicken no bigger than your thumbnail.

[Madelaine Amee]

Aldi's sells a chicken salad that I really enjoy, they have one with Cranberries. You might try adding Cranberries or Craisins for a change. I like fruit and nuts with my Chicken salad.

You are an Alzheimer care giver to the love of your life .... you must be a very special man. I cannot think of anything more difficult. Unfortunately I have first hand knowledge of this dreadful disease. There are no words for what it does to your soul.

[CFrance]

ahh...tarragon...now that's different. thank you
Tarragon and chicken go really well together. For my crew growing up, I used to combine chunked (1/3 inch) boneless skinless cooked chicken, toasted pecans, grapes sliced in half, chunks of cheddar cheese, Hellmans (before discovering Dukes), sliced black olives, sometimes celery, and a small amount of curry powder, salt, and pepper. Mix together, stuff in croissants, wrap them in tin foil and heat in a 350 oven for about 20 minutes.

[noslices1]

Add chopped walnuts and raisins also. You’ll love it.

[Alicia]

It is easier to eat as.a sandwich if it is chopped less chunky. It is better as as a salad plate if chunky. Only my opinion.

[claylayer]

The smaller the better is our opinion.

[Kerlampert]

Aloha...from DeSoto

You are a doll for all you do.
I love chunks, but I would suggest to you and your wife's preference. I love hard boiled eggs in it, too.

[ScottYvonne]

lose the skin And shred it with two forks. Try this once and you will never chunk chicken in salad again.

[PugMom]

Chicken salad is one of my standards. In fact, it rarely starts with leftovers. Those skinless, boneless chicken breasts get gently blasted in a pressure cook for just a few minutes.

(I used to poach them but now it is always the pressure cooker.)

Then the chicken gets shredded. I just use forks to do the shredding because I do not want the chicken to be too smooth — just a rough shred. Chopping would work fine, too.

I use tarragon, celery, and Hellmann’s.

My mom sometimes put grapes and nuts in chicken salad and served it on a lettuce leaf, on a pretty plate, for her bridge club. But I don’t play bridge.

i had to comment here--YES to shredding the meat, i get so many compliments when i prepare it that way, & i add a touch of malt vinegar to the onions & celery before i mix it in.

[tedquick]

okay, totally not sure if this is the right subset of this forum to post this in...but I can't seem to find another appropriate one...so here goes and the moderators will reassign it if needed

my wife has Alzheimer's... so I'm doing all of the meal prep, cooking, menu planning and buying, etc...no big deal, I signed on for life, she's the love of my life. We both liked to cook and we took many cooking classes together over the years...so I know how to cook

however...now I'm faced with taking care of 'the left overs'....lol... in the past that was always way above my pay grade thankfully....lol

so, a meal that we make often is 'Basil Chicken'...chicken breasts with skin on and bone in, and we stuff about 8 basil leaves under the skin of each breast....fantastic taste

anyway...there's always a lot of chicken left over....which in the past my wife made into chicken salad for sandwiches.

so here's my question....should I just rough chop the left over chicken and leave it in big chunks, or should I fine chop the chicken for the sandwiches....yes I'm going to add celery and mayo

hey...what can I say...I was always the chef or the sous chef and never had to bother with the leftovers (I'd always help with the drying of the dishes though)

thanks for any advice you may share...

it's tougher than I ever thought it would be being 'the care taker'...and I just want to be able to please my wife with a great chicken salad sandwich. We go on picnics a lot now that covid-19 is here...it gets us out.

I am so grateful that we are in TV...there are so many folks that will help....and it truly does make a huge difference. We are blessed that our church family is so great...and that we have 1st cousins living in TV

And this forum gives me a lot of joy...and a break from being "on" 24x 7

please, just tell me how you chop the left over chicken for sandwiches...it's really just that darn simple of a question...and I feel silly reaching out on this, but I am :)


I love the attitude of your post. God bless you.

[Stu from NYC]

okay, totally not sure if this is the right subset of this forum to post this in...but I can't seem to find another appropriate one...so here goes and the moderators will reassign it if needed

my wife has Alzheimer's... so I'm doing all of the meal prep, cooking, menu planning and buying, etc...no big deal, I signed on for life, she's the love of my life. We both liked to cook and we took many cooking classes together over the years...so I know how to cook

however...now I'm faced with taking care of 'the left overs'....lol... in the past that was always way above my pay grade thankfully....lol

so, a meal that we make often is 'Basil Chicken'...chicken breasts with skin on and bone in, and we stuff about 8 basil leaves under the skin of each breast....fantastic taste

anyway...there's always a lot of chicken left over....which in the past my wife made into chicken salad for sandwiches.

so here's my question....should I just rough chop the left over chicken and leave it in big chunks, or should I fine chop the chicken for the sandwiches....yes I'm going to add celery and mayo

hey...what can I say...I was always the chef or the sous chef and never had to bother with the leftovers (I'd always help with the drying of the dishes though)

thanks for any advice you may share...

it's tougher than I ever thought it would be being 'the care taker'...and I just want to be able to please my wife with a great chicken salad sandwich. We go on picnics a lot now that covid-19 is here...it gets us out.

I am so grateful that we are in TV...there are so many folks that will help....and it truly does make a huge difference. We are blessed that our church family is so great...and that we have 1st cousins living in TV

And this forum gives me a lot of joy...and a break from being "on" 24x 7

please, just tell me how you chop the left over chicken for sandwiches...it's really just that darn simple of a question...and I feel silly reaching out on this, but I am :)

Your a wonderful husband and keep your chin up. If you have any other questions please ask.

I have been making chicken salad for years and have a few other ingredients to try.

[butch69]

I alway add pickle relish. Adds a new dimension to the flavor.

[Dana1963]

I to went through similar medical event with My wife. Just a short cut. I use chicken shredded, mayo,onion and celery and a little pepper. Time saver the excess onion/celery can be frozen for next time. Bless you for taking care of your wife!okay, totally not sure if this is the right subset of this forum to post this in...but I can't seem to find another appropriate one...so here goes and the moderators will reassign it if needed

my wife has Alzheimer's... so I'm doing all of the meal prep, cooking, menu planning and buying, etc...no big deal, I signed on for life, she's the love of my life. We both liked to cook and we took many cooking classes together over the years...so I know how to cook

however...now I'm faced with taking care of 'the left overs'....lol... in the past that was always way above my pay grade thankfully....lol

so, a meal that we make often is 'Basil Chicken'...chicken breasts with skin on and bone in, and we stuff about 8 basil leaves under the skin of each breast....fantastic taste

anyway...there's always a lot of chicken left over....which in the past my wife made into chicken salad for sandwiches.

so here's my question....should I just rough chop the left over chicken and leave it in big chunks, or should I fine chop the chicken for the sandwiches....yes I'm going to add celery and mayo

hey...what can I say...I was always the chef or the sous chef and never had to bother with the leftovers (I'd always help with the drying of the dishes though)

thanks for any advice you may share...

it's tougher than I ever thought it would be being 'the care taker'...and I just want to be able to please my wife with a great chicken salad sandwich. We go on picnics a lot now that covid-19 is here...it gets us out.

I am so grateful that we are in TV...there are so many folks that will help....and it truly does make a huge difference. We are blessed that our church family is so great...and that we have 1st cousins living in TV

And this forum gives me a lot of joy...and a break from being "on" 24x 7

please, just tell me how you chop the left over chicken for sandwiches...it's really just that darn simple of a question...and I feel silly reaching out on this, but I am :)

[golfgal44]

There are two ways. Remove the skin, first of all. Then, if you like the taste of chunky chicken, cut into small cubes. I prefer my ground. I put it into a small electric food chopper. Mine is a black and decker. It looks like a mini food processor. Inexpensive. Cut the chicken into chunks and grind it using the pulse button. You may have to grind it in different batches because the grinder is not very big. Holds maybe a cup of solids at a time. Remove chicken from grinder, and my favorite recipe is to add 1/2 mayo, 1/2 plain Greek yogurt, walnuts, celery, and Craisins which add a great flavor. Good luck.

[fdpaq0580]

My wife makes a great tuna pasta salad. Suggested we do the same with chicken and it was great.
Next, we took her recipe for tuna noodle casserole and made chicken noodle casserole. Great!
I, personally, like my chicken (in dishes like these) to have a texture as close to that of tuna as possible.
Recipes? Let your imagination be your guide and creat new and unique recipes to go along with the traditional.

You are a wonderful guy who loves his wonderful lady. Bless you both.

[Gerrys]

Matter of preference. I chop the chicken. I mix mayo with sour cream. Celery, onion, relish, chopped cranberries or raisins, chopped pecans. Add all of the above, some, or none. Enjoy.

[harrisimard]

First I want to praise you for being the kind of Husband every woman would love to have. I know cuz my husband is the same way, Thank God. but back to the Chicken Salad, my wonderful husband uses the rotisserrie chicken from sam's and he shreds it with lots of Hellman's , salt & pepper and celery and onion. That's it simple and wonderful. God Bless both you and your wife.

[kmonts@bellsouth.net]

I would remove the skin and do a semi- fine chop. Big chunks would be harder to make into ASHA wish salad. Good luck.

[Robin Hardwick]

Love all the suggestions for your chicken salads but if you want a little different taste you might try this... Chop Chicken in bite sized pieces; Cut a dozen to 20 red grapes in half and add to chicken; Add 1/2 cup chopped pecans; Use mayo or miracle whip to taste. Sprinkle with a little seasoned salt and enjoy. We put this inside wraps to cut down on calories. There are delicious low calorie spinach or tomato wraps that are only 60 calories each (buy at Sams and Publix). We use fresh spinach instead of lettuce for more vitamin enrichment inside the wrap... just a thought!!! PS thanks for being such a great hubby...

[Mustagotlost]

We use leftover chicken for burritos.

[Pommom91]

I always chop mine in small pieces so that I can also put it on crackers.

[Pickel64]

If planning to eat the chicken the next day, I just chop it into 1/2 to 3/4 inch pieces. If for a later day, just freeze the pieces until you need it.

[Preilly111]

We add a little sour cream with the mayo.

[HappyRetired]

I used to rough chop by hand because we mostly had breast meat left over--both with chicken and turkey. But as my husband got older he had trouble with many "dry" foods. So I started fine-chopping in the food processor. I can throw in the celery and carrot (yes, I put this in my chicken salad). I think it depends on your preference and possibly your wife's ability to deal with chewing and swallowing certain foods. With the processor, you can process less time for less fine chop. Hope this is helpful.

[sdaubner]

God Bless You and your Wife������������ What a positive post. Enjoyed reading all the recommendations, I copied a few of the recipes myself.

[sdaubner]

Sorry don’t know where all the question marks came from?

[robinrodriguez]

You are a good person God bless you both
I cut mine as small as possible

[TooColdNJ]

The heck with chicken—I’m sure you’ve gotten enough answers and recipes— a variety that’ll last you for years to come. I want you to know that after reading your post, exactly how your small, loving gesture touched me, even though I don’t personally know either of you. I’ve seen first hand how difficult it is for someone to care for a spouse with dementia.

I write this because, according to my mom, my father didn’t even know how to put his coffee cup in the dishwasher! Married for 70 years, a miracle in itself to me, it was a traditional marriage— mom... the mom, and dad as in “just wait until your father gets home!” Mom was the backbone of the family, keeping the family together. Along with all of her other “traditional” wifely duties, she was the brains of the small retail business they worked in together for years. Me, a child of the 1960s and 70s, had a hard time with those traditional roles. When my first marriage ended— my decision— my mother gave me a book called the Total Woman. To this day, I even recall the author, Marabell Morgan. I should fact check that to see how good my own memory really is. I guess she was trying to help. I didn’t think so at all! There is more to a marriage than making sure the lipstick was on and we looked our best. Hmm...

Fast forward to when they were in their mid 80s when my mom had a 5 bypass surgery, resulting in bypass psychosis—her dementia was mild in the beginning, but that was the beginning of the role reversal that I never thought my father could handle.

Over the next year or two, I watched my mom deteriorate and my father gain the strength that I never saw from this man. The care that he provided was simply amazing and, to me, something that I never expected from the man who, for their entire marriage, couldn’t put any effort into the little things that he probably considered a woman’s job. He provided well for her and our family; she took care of us, as moms do, and together they had a wonderful life. Her illness taught me how strong the bonds of love really are.

As those traditional roles reversed— Dad became the strength as Mom became mentally weaker. He was 100% committed to her, taking on every responsibility of her care and her personal needs in ways I couldn’t believe. When she needed more care than the doctor felt he could give her at home, he fought to keep her home, but he sadly acquiesced. Even he realized it himself- being her caretaker was an incredibly difficult responsibility.

Just chicken salad shows me how strong your love has been and will always be—a time when some would have difficulty, unable to demonstrate true and unconditional love.

You, sir, are a wonderful human being who I see will do whatever it takes to care for your wife and the changes you’re facing now and will continue to as time goes on. It’s something that not everyone has the ability to do. In time, although she may be unable to express what she feels in the right words we all like to hear, I hope you know that it will always be there in her heart.

Such a little thing like your chicken salad post very emotionally brought me back to a period of time that I might have learned a few things about love that I should put into practice. What you and my dad reminded me of is that in in the larger scheme of things there are so many more important things in life than a dirty coffee cup. Someday, many of us will wish to hear those little criticisms again, so in the present we should all just let them go and think about you and my dad—how lucky you (are) to have such love In your lives. Your wife is a lucky woman to have you by her side.

[mwieland]

Small chop

[LuvtheVillages]

Love all the variations of chicken salad, but haven't seen mine.

I agree with mixing mayo and sour cream. In addition to celery, salt, and pepper, I add chopped apples and dill weed. Fresh dill if possible.

[Stu from NYC]

The heck with chicken—I’m sure you’ve gotten enough answers and recipes— a variety that’ll last you for years to come. I want you to know that after reading your post, exactly how your small, loving gesture touched me, even though I don’t personally know either of you. I’ve seen first hand how difficult it is for someone to care for a spouse with dementia.

I write this because, according to my mom, my father didn’t even know how to put his coffee cup in the dishwasher! Married for 70 years, a miracle in itself to me, it was a traditional marriage— mom... the mom, and dad as in “just wait until your father gets home!” Mom was the backbone of the family, keeping the family together. Along with all of her other “traditional” wifely duties, she was the brains of the small retail business they worked in together for years. Me, a child of the 1960s and 70s, had a hard time with those traditional roles. When my first marriage ended— my decision— my mother gave me a book called the Total Woman. To this day, I even recall the author, Marabell Morgan. I should fact check that to see how good my own memory really is. I guess she was trying to help. I didn’t think so at all! There is more to a marriage than making sure the lipstick was on and we looked our best. Hmm...

Fast forward to when they were in their mid 80s when my mom had a 5 bypass surgery, resulting in bypass psychosis—her dementia was mild in the beginning, but that was the beginning of the role reversal that I never thought my father could handle.

Over the next year or two, I watched my mom deteriorate and my father gain the strength that I never saw from this man. The care that he provided was simply amazing and, to me, something that I never expected from the man who, for their entire marriage, couldn’t put any effort into the little things that he probably considered a woman’s job. He provided well for her and our family; she took care of us, as moms do, and together they had a wonderful life. Her illness taught me how strong the bonds of love really are.

As those traditional roles reversed— Dad became the strength as Mom became mentally weaker. He was 100% committed to her, taking on every responsibility of her care and her personal needs in ways I couldn’t believe. When she needed more care than the doctor felt he could give her at home, he fought to keep her home, but he sadly acquiesced. Even he realized it himself- being her caretaker was an incredibly difficult responsibility.

Just chicken salad shows me how strong your love has been and will always be—a time when some would have difficulty, unable to demonstrate true and unconditional love.

You, sir, are a wonderful human being who I see will do whatever it takes to care for your wife and the changes you’re facing now and will continue to as time goes on. It’s something that not everyone has the ability to do. In time, although she may be unable to express what she feels in the right words we all like to hear, I hope you know that it will always be there in her heart.

Such a little thing like your chicken salad post very emotionally brought me back to a period of time that I might have learned a few things about love that I should put into practice. What you and my dad reminded me of is that in in the larger scheme of things there are so many more important things in life than a dirty coffee cup. Someday, many of us will wish to hear those little criticisms again, so in the present we should all just let them go and think about you and my dad—how lucky you (are) to have such love In your lives. Your wife is a lucky woman to have you by her side.

excellent post

[LizzieBorden]

I use forks to pull it apart, and then add some sliced up red grapes, celery, red onion, green olives, a few Craisins, and mayo....it is delicious. When my girl friend made this, I turned up my nose a bit, but I did try it and NOW, I make it often, sometimes just eat it without any bread. YUM YUM. Good luck.

[gb1944]

My wife makes the best chicken salad. One of her tricks is to grind the chicken. It really makes the chicken salad smooth.

[davem4616]

First I want to praise you for being the kind of Husband every woman would love to have. I know cuz my husband is the same way, Thank God. but back to the Chicken Salad, my wonderful husband uses the rotisserrie chicken from sam's and he shreds it with lots of Hellman's , salt & pepper and celery and onion. That's it simple and wonderful. God Bless both you and your wife.

thank you...enough folks have mentioned shredding....I'm going to try shredding it next time

[davem4616]

The heck with chicken—I’m sure you’ve gotten enough answers and recipes— a variety that’ll last you for years to come. I want you to know that after reading your post, exactly how your small, loving gesture touched me, even though I don’t personally know either of you. I’ve seen first hand how difficult it is for someone to care for a spouse with dementia.

I write this because, according to my mom, my father didn’t even know how to put his coffee cup in the dishwasher! Married for 70 years, a miracle in itself to me, it was a traditional marriage— mom... the mom, and dad as in “just wait until your father gets home!” Mom was the backbone of the family, keeping the family together. Along with all of her other “traditional” wifely duties, she was the brains of the small retail business they worked in together for years. Me, a child of the 1960s and 70s, had a hard time with those traditional roles. When my first marriage ended— my decision— my mother gave me a book called the Total Woman. To this day, I even recall the author, Marabell Morgan. I should fact check that to see how good my own memory really is. I guess she was trying to help. I didn’t think so at all! There is more to a marriage than making sure the lipstick was on and we looked our best. Hmm...

Fast forward to when they were in their mid 80s when my mom had a 5 bypass surgery, resulting in bypass psychosis—her dementia was mild in the beginning, but that was the beginning of the role reversal that I never thought my father could handle.

Over the next year or two, I watched my mom deteriorate and my father gain the strength that I never saw from this man. The care that he provided was simply amazing and, to me, something that I never expected from the man who, for their entire marriage, couldn’t put any effort into the little things that he probably considered a woman’s job. He provided well for her and our family; she took care of us, as moms do, and together they had a wonderful life. Her illness taught me how strong the bonds of love really are.

As those traditional roles reversed— Dad became the strength as Mom became mentally weaker. He was 100% committed to her, taking on every responsibility of her care and her personal needs in ways I couldn’t believe. When she needed more care than the doctor felt he could give her at home, he fought to keep her home, but he sadly acquiesced. Even he realized it himself- being her caretaker was an incredibly difficult responsibility.

Just chicken salad shows me how strong your love has been and will always be—a time when some would have difficulty, unable to demonstrate true and unconditional love.

You, sir, are a wonderful human being who I see will do whatever it takes to care for your wife and the changes you’re facing now and will continue to as time goes on. It’s something that not everyone has the ability to do. In time, although she may be unable to express what she feels in the right words we all like to hear, I hope you know that it will always be there in her heart.

Such a little thing like your chicken salad post very emotionally brought me back to a period of time that I might have learned a few things about love that I should put into practice. What you and my dad reminded me of is that in in the larger scheme of things there are so many more important things in life than a dirty coffee cup. Someday, many of us will wish to hear those little criticisms again, so in the present we should all just let them go and think about you and my dad—how lucky you (are) to have such love In your lives. Your wife is a lucky woman to have you by her side.

thank you. my upbringing and the values they gave me along with being a Boy Scout has prepared me for this

but again...thanks for sharing your story, very much appreciated

[Shbullet]

Love all the variations of chicken salad, but haven't seen mine.

I agree with mixing mayo and sour cream. In addition to celery, salt, and pepper, I add chopped apples and dill weed. Fresh dill if possible.


After reading your recipe I thought Id try it tonight. The chopped apples made this the best Ive ever made thank you!

[Aspillaga60@yahoo.com]

Sounds delicious :icon_wink::icon_wink:

[TABOR8]

Bless you!!!

[TooColdNJ]

thank you. my upbringing and the values they gave me along with being a Boy Scout has prepared me for this

but again...thanks for sharing your story, very much appreciated

My post wasn’t meant to be negative or to make assumptions that your experiences will be the same as my parents. Many people were raised with the same values, but when they find themselves in the situation, their emotions overpower their coping mechanisms.

Dementia is unpredictable, and every different circumstance (which there are many) doesn’t have the same solution. Sometimes it takes a great deal of creativity or thinking fast or at any given moment.

My father felt strongly that he learned a lot from the book “36 Hour Day ”, and it became
a great reference that helped prepare him.

[sswitenki]

My quick go to for recipes, cooking advice and instructions is Pinterest. I vote for small dice but it is fun to search Pinterest and see what comes up in a search and pick or combine what options look good 😉😀

[Nick B]

That's what I was thinking take a break and go to chicken salad chick.

[davem4616]

My post wasn’t meant to be negative or to make assumptions that your experiences will be the same as my parents. Many people were raised with the same values, but when they find themselves in the situation, their emotions overpower their coping mechanisms.

Dementia is unpredictable, and every different circumstance (which there are many) doesn’t have the same solution. Sometimes it takes a great deal of creativity or thinking fast or at any given moment.

My father felt strongly that he learned a lot from the book “36 Hour Day ”, and it became
a great reference that helped prepare him.

Thank you...I'll check that book out...I'm always open to new ideas