This chicken salad is fresh and packed with flavor, perfect for a light lunch! With juicy chicken, crispy veggies, and a tasty dressing, it’s sure to make your tummy happy.
You can whip this up in no time—just mix everything together and enjoy. I like to pair it with some crunchy crackers. Trust me, you’ll want to keep coming back for more! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: I like using rotisserie chicken as it’s ready to go and super tasty. If you’re short on time, leftover chicken works well too. If you’re looking for a plant-based option, shredded tofu or chickpeas can be a delightful substitute!
Mayonnaise: This adds a creamy element. If you’re looking to cut calories, consider using light mayonnaise or a vegan alternative. You can even replace it entirely with avocado for a fresh taste!
Greek Yogurt: It adds tang and creaminess. If you need a dairy-free option, try using coconut yogurt or any plant-based yogurt. Just keep an eye on the flavor, as some can be a bit sweeter.
Celery: This gives crunch! If you’re not a fan, diced apples or any crunchy vegetable like bell peppers can be a great alternative to keep that texture.
Red Grapes: They add a pop of sweetness, but if you want to switch it up, try using chopped apples or even dried cranberries for a different twist.
How Do I Combine These Ingredients for the Best Flavor?
Mixing the ingredients properly is key to getting all the flavors in every bite. Start by ensuring your chicken is well shredded, which helps it mix better. Combine the mayonnaise and Greek yogurt first, making a dressing before adding the chicken.
- In a large bowl, blend mayonnaise and Greek yogurt until smooth.
- Add the shredded chicken to this mixture, making sure every piece is coated well.
- After that, fold in the crunchy veggies and fruits. Stir gently to keep everything intact!
- Remember to taste as you go—this way, you can adjust the salt and pepper.
Letting the salad chill is important because it lets the flavors meld together. Serve it on greens, inside a sandwich, or with crackers for versatility!
Delicious Round Swamp Farm Chicken Salad Dupe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded (preferably rotisserie chicken)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup celery, finely diced
- 1/4 cup red grapes, halved (optional for sweetness)
- 1/4 cup green onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped nuts (such as pecans or almonds) for added crunch
How Much Time Will You Need?
This chicken salad recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then you should chill it for at least 30 minutes in the fridge. So, in a little under an hour, you’ll have a refreshing and tasty chicken salad ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base:
Start by grabbing a large bowl. In this bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mayonnaise, and Greek yogurt. Use a spoon or spatula to mix everything together really well until the chicken is nicely coated. This creamy base is the heart of your salad!
2. Add the Crunch and Flavor:
Next, add in the diced celery, halved grapes (if you’re using them), chopped green onion, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Stir it all together until every ingredient is evenly mixed in. This is where your salad gets its flavor and crunch!
3. Season to Taste:
Now it’s time to season! Sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste. Give it another good stir. Don’t forget to taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed; you want it to be just right!
4. Optional Nuts for Texture:
If you love a bit of crunch, fold in some chopped nuts like pecans or almonds at this stage. They add a delightful texture that complements the creamy chicken salad.
5. Chill Out:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the fridge. Let the chicken salad chill for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows all those delicious flavors to meld together!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s chilled, your chicken salad is ready to go! You can serve it on a fresh bed of greens, in a sandwich, or spread on some crackers. Enjoy this tasty dish with family and friends!
Can I Use Canned Chicken Instead of Cooked Chicken?
Absolutely! Canned chicken can be a convenient substitute. Just drain and shred it before adding to the salad, and make sure to reduce the amount of salt you add since canned chicken is often already seasoned.
How to Make This Recipe Healthier?
If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use low-fat mayonnaise and Greek yogurt instead of regular types. You can also increase the amount of celery and grapes for added volume and crunch without significantly increasing calories.
Can I Make This Chicken Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken salad a day ahead. Just keep it covered in the fridge. This dish tends to taste even better as it sits, as the flavors meld together. However, if using grapes or nuts, add them right before serving for maximum freshness.
What Other Ingredients Can I Add?
Feel free to customize your chicken salad! You can add diced apples, chopped bell peppers, or even a sprinkle of curry powder for a different flavor profile. Experiment with your favorites to find the perfect combination!
