This Easy Sonoma Chicken Salad is a tasty mix of cooked chicken, crunchy celery, sweet grapes, and creamy dressing. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or picnic!
I love serving it on a bed of greens or in a sandwich. It’s like a hug in a bowl—super comforting and delicious! Plus, it’s so easy to whip up that I make it often!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Use cooked chicken breast for the best texture. Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. If you’re vegetarian, chickpeas can be a tasty substitute!
Grapes: Red seedless grapes add sweetness and color. Green grapes work well for a tangy twist. Dried cranberries can also bring a sweet flavor!
Celery: Fresh celery adds crunch and freshness. For a different flavor, try diced apples or bell peppers. They add a nice crunch too.
Mayonnaise: Regular mayonnaise provides creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter version, swap it with Greek yogurt or use a vegan mayo for a plant-based option.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Salad is Extra Creamy?
To achieve a creamy texture, make sure to mix the dressing well. Start by blending your mayo and Greek yogurt smoothly. Using room-temperature ingredients can help with mixing, allowing everything to come together nicely.
- Combine the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, and lemon juice first to create a creamy dressing base.
- Gently fold in the chicken and veggies to keep everything from getting mushy.
- Let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes; this not only enhances the flavors but also allows the dressing to fully coat the salad.
Easy Sonoma Chicken Salad
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 1 cup red seedless grapes, halved
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon plain Greek yogurt or sour cream (optional for creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional for crunch)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time plus at least 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. In total, you’ll have delicious Sonoma Chicken Salad ready in about 45 minutes!
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, halved grapes, chopped celery, and red onion. Stir everything to mix well.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (if you’re using it), lemon juice, Dijon mustard, poppy seeds, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Mix until everything is smooth and creamy.
3. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over your chicken mixture. Gently toss everything together until the chicken and veggies are well coated in the dressing. If you’re adding nuts for crunch, fold them in at this point.
4. Taste and Season:
Give your salad a taste! If you think it needs a bit more flavor, add a little extra salt and pepper until it’s just right.
5. Chill and Serve:
Cover and refrigerate your salad for at least 30 minutes. This allows all those yummy flavors to blend together nicely. When you’re ready to serve, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, then enjoy it on a bed of greens, in a sandwich, or with your favorite crackers!
This Sonoma Chicken Salad is fresh, creamy, and perfectly balanced with sweet grapes and savory chicken—a delightful dish you’ll love sharing!
FAQ for Easy Sonoma Chicken Salad
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly and adds extra flavor. Just make sure it’s cooled before mixing it into your salad.
Is It Possible to Make This Salad Dairy-Free?
Yes! You can replace the mayonnaise and Greek yogurt with a dairy-free mayo or a creamy avocado blend. Just adjust the amount to your taste for the best consistency.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Chicken Salad?
Store leftover Sonoma Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again to refresh it!
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to add ingredients like chopped apples, raisins, or a handful of spinach for extra flavor and nutrients. Just keep in mind that it may change the salad’s texture and taste.
