Brazilian chicken salad (salpicão)

Brazilian chicken salad, or salpicão, features shredded chicken, fresh vegetables, and fruits, all tossed in a creamy dressing. This vibrant dish offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes, perfect for any gathering.

18 Jan 2026
Cook time 12 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

1 tbsp olive oil
4 chicken breasts
2 carrots
2 apples
1/3 cup raisins
2 tbsp fresh parsley
3/4 red onion
1 lime
5 tbsp mayonnaise salad dressing
1.50 cups greek yogurt
1/4 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp coriander leaves
Brazilian chicken salad (salpicão)

Salpicão is a popular Brazilian chicken salad that is often served at family gatherings and celebrations. This vibrant dish is a delightful combination of shredded chicken, fresh vegetables, fruits, and a creamy dressing, offering a burst of flavors and textures. Perfect for any occasion, it is both refreshing and satisfying.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the chicken breasts and cook until they’re fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the pan and let it cool.
- Once cooled, shred the chicken into thin strips using two forks or your hands.
2. Prep the Vegetables:
- Peel and dice the carrots.
- Core the apples and chop them into small pieces.
- Finely chop the red onion.
- Chop the fresh parsley.
3. Mix the Salad Base:
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, grated carrots, chopped apples, raisins, chopped red onion, and fresh parsley.
4. Prepare the Dressing:
- In a smaller bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, salt, black pepper, and coriander leaves.
- Squeeze the juice of the lime into the mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Combine Everything:
- Pour the dressing mixture over the salad base.
- Toss everything together until all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
6. Chill and Serve:
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled. This salad can be enjoyed as a main dish or a side.

Brazilian chicken salad, or salpicão, is a versatile and delicious dish that is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. With its mix of savory chicken, crunchy vegetables, sweet fruits, and creamy dressing, it provides a complex and satisfying flavor profile. Whether you serve it as a side or a main dish, this salad is bound to impress your guests.

Brazilian chicken salad (salpicão) FAQ:

What is the best way to store leftover salpicão?

Store leftover Brazilian chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be kept for up to 3 days. Make sure to give it a good stir before serving again.

Can I substitute Greek yogurt with another ingredient?

Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream or plain yogurt for a similar creamy texture. However, this may slightly alter the flavor.

How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?

Make sure the chicken breasts reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can use an instant-read thermometer to check this.

How long should I chill the salad before serving?

Chill the salad for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste.

What size pan should I use to cook the chicken?

A large skillet or frying pan works best to cook the chicken breasts evenly. Ensure the pan is large enough to hold all four breasts without overcrowding.

Tips:

- Use rotisserie chicken to save time on cooking the chicken breasts.

- Ensure the carrots and apples are finely julienned or shredded for the best texture.

- Soak raisins in warm water for a few minutes to plump them up before adding to the salad.

- Adjust the amount of mayonnaise and Greek yogurt to achieve your preferred salad consistency.

- Season the salad well and let it chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 360kcal
Protein 33g
Carbohydrates 33g
Fiber 4.63g
Sugar 24g
Fat 14g

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