A simple and delicious chicken salad with a complexity of flavors.

Chicken Salad with Fennel and Walnuts

6 chicken thighs, skinned
1 stalk fresh fennel (about 1/2 pound)
4 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 teaspoon chopped fresh chives
3 tablespoons walnuts, toasted and chopped
Salt and ground black pepper to taste

1. Cut off tall stalks and feathery leaves from fennel bulb; rinse well and cut in half. Reserve 2 tablespoons minced fennel leaves. Trim base from fennel bulb; remove tough outer layers. Slice fennel hearts crosswise to form celery-like pieces. Measure 1/2 cup; set aside.
2. Place chicken, fennel stalks and remaining leaves in a large pot; cover with water. Bring to a boil; skim the top. Reduce heat and simmer 25 minutes or until done. Remove chicken from the broth; cool partially. Pull meat from the bones; cut into small chunks.
3. In a medium bowl combine mayonnaise, reserved minced fennel leaves and chives. Mix in chicken, sliced fennel and walnuts. Season with salt and pepper.

Makes 4 servings.

Recipe provided courtesy of the National Chicken Council. Used with permission.