This sunny chicken salad is packed with flavor thanks to sweet sun-dried tomatoes and tender chicken. It’s perfect for a light lunch or a yummy dinner side!
Making it is as simple as mixing all the tasty ingredients together. I love how the tomatoes add a little zing that makes each bite special. You’ll want to have seconds! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: You can use any cooked chicken, like grilled or roasted. Rotisserie chicken works great too! If you’re looking for a lighter option, try shredded turkey instead.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: I recommend using oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor, but you can also use dried ones. Just soak them in hot water for 10-15 minutes to soften before adding.
Fresh Parsley: If you don’t have parsley, basil or dill can add a lovely freshness. Even spinach can work in a pinch!
Mayonnaise: For a healthier twist, Greek yogurt is a delicious substitute, giving it a tangy flavor. You could also try avocado for a creamier texture.
Dijon Mustard: If you don’t have Dijon, yellow mustard will work too. It won’t be as zesty, but it’ll still add a nice touch.
What’s the Best Way to Mix This Salad Without Overdoing It?
When mixing your salad, it’s important to be gentle to keep the chicken from shredding too much. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by adding the dressing gradually to the chicken mixture. This helps you control the amount of dressing used.
- Use a spatula or a large spoon and fold the ingredients together. Move from the bottom of the bowl to the top instead of stirring vigorously.
- Once everything is combined, taste before adding more seasoning. This way, you can adjust without overdoing it.
Chilling the salad really helps the flavors come together, so don’t skip that step!
Easy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Salad Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably oil-packed)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad can be prepped in about 10 minutes. After that, let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, which helps all the flavors blend perfectly. So, overall, you’re looking at around 40 minutes from start to finish, most of which is just chilling time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Chicken and Veggies:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken that you’ve shredded or chopped, alongside the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, fresh parsley, and sliced green onions. Give it a gentle stir to mix them well together.
2. Prepare the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice until it’s smooth and well combined. This dressing is going to add a lovely creaminess and tangy flavor to your salad!
3. Mix It All Together:
Pour the dressing over your chicken mixture. Now, gently stir everything together, being careful not to break down the chicken too much. You want each piece to stay nice and chunky, coated with that delicious dressing.
4. Season to Taste:
Now, sprinkle in some salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss again to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed!
5. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and pop it in the fridge. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
After chilling, it’s time to serve! You can enjoy the sun-dried tomato chicken salad on its own, over a bed of greens, or even in a sandwich for a hearty meal. Enjoy every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Leftover roasted or grilled chicken works perfectly. Just make sure it’s shredded or chopped into bite-sized pieces for even mixing.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you prefer a healthier option or don’t have mayonnaise on hand, Greek yogurt is a great substitute! It adds creaminess and a nice tang. Alternatively, you can blend avocado for a creamy texture as well.
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a stir before serving, as the ingredients may settle a bit.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to customize by adding ingredients like diced cucumbers, bell peppers, or even nuts for extra crunch. Just keep in mind that it may alter the overall flavor profile!
