Creamy Chicken and Carrot Spread: A Savory, Wholesome Delight for Every Occasion

🍳 Preparation

Step 1: Cook and Prepare the Chicken

If you don’t already have cooked chicken on hand, poach or bake two chicken breasts:

Poaching method: Place chicken breasts in a pot with water or broth, season lightly with salt and pepper, and simmer for 12–15 minutes until cooked through.
Remove and let cool slightly, then finely shred or chop.

Alternatively, you can use leftover rotisserie chicken — a great shortcut for busy days!

Step 2: Sauté the Carrots

In a small skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the grated carrots (and minced onion, if using).

Sauté for about 4–5 minutes, just until the carrots soften slightly and the onion becomes translucent.
Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Base

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, and Dijon mustard.

Beat or whisk until smooth and creamy.
Add garlic powder, paprika, and lemon juice, and mix again until well incorporated.

This creamy mixture will act as the flavor foundation for your spread — rich but balanced.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the shredded chicken and sautéed carrots into the creamy mixture. Stir thoroughly until every piece is coated and evenly mixed.

Taste and adjust seasoning — add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
For an herbaceous finish, stir in fresh parsley (or substitute with dill or chives).

Step 5: Chill and Serve

Transfer the spread to a serving bowl or airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the texture to firm up slightly.

🍽 Serving Suggestions

This spread is endlessly versatile! Here are some of the best ways to enjoy it:

As a dip: Serve chilled with crackers, veggie sticks, or pita chips.
In sandwiches or wraps: Spread generously on toasted bread with lettuce, tomato, or cucumber slices.
As a canape topping: Pipe or spoon onto small rounds of toasted baguette for elegant appetizers.
In stuffed pastries: Use as a filling for mini puff pastry cups or vol-au-vents for party platters.
For breakfast: Spread on warm toast and top with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a few pickled onions for a zesty touch.

💡 Tips for Success

Texture matters: For a smoother spread, pulse the cooked chicken and carrots briefly in a food processor before mixing. For a chunkier version, simply mix by hand.
Balance the flavor: Don’t skip the lemon juice — it brightens up the richness and adds a subtle tang.
Customize the flavor:
- Add grated cheese (like cheddar or Parmesan) for a richer taste.
- Mix in chopped celery or bell pepper for crunch.
- Use smoked paprika for a deeper, slightly smoky flavor.
Make ahead: This spread keeps beautifully in the fridge for 3–4 days. In fact, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.
Freezing tip: Avoid freezing, as the creamy texture may separate when thawed.

ADVERTISEMENT

←Previous Next→