This Chicken Salad Croissant is a tasty mix of juicy chicken, crunchy celery, and creamy mayo, all stuffed into a flaky croissant. It’s perfect for lunch or a light snack!
Honestly, who can resist that buttery croissant? I often make extra so I can enjoy one while waiting! 😄 Adding some grapes or apples makes it even better!
I love how quick this recipe is—just mix the chicken and goodies, scoop it into croissants, and you’re done. Perfect for treating yourself or impressing friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is my go-to for its flavor and ease. If you don’t have any, leftover grilled or poached chicken also works well. You can even use canned chicken in a pinch, but fresh is always best!
Mayonnaise: This brings creaminess to the salad. If you’re looking for a lighter option, swap half or all with Greek yogurt. It adds that tang and a protein boost, too!
Dijon Mustard: This adds a nice kick. If you’re out, yellow mustard can work, but it’s milder. You could also use a bit of spicy brown mustard for more flavor.
Celery: It gives a lovely crunch. If you’re not a fan, diced bell peppers or cucumbers are great substitutes. They add freshness while keeping the crunch!
Grapes: Red grapes add sweetness, but diced apples are a great alternative if you prefer a firmer texture. Both options bring a nice contrast to the creamy salad.
How Do You Perfectly Mix the Chicken Salad Without Overdoing It?
Mixing your chicken salad may seem easy, but getting it right is key for texture and flavor. Here’s how you can do it:
- Start by combining the chicken, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice in a large bowl. Mix gently; you want everything coated without shredding the chicken too much.
- Once combined, add the celery, grapes, green onions, and nuts (if using). Fold these in carefully to keep the crunchy textures.
- Season with salt and pepper gradually, tasting as you go to make sure it’s just right!
This gentle folding technique helps maintain the integrity of the chicken and crunchy bits, making for a deliciously satisfying salad!
Best Chicken Salad Croissant
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced (preferably rotisserie chicken)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt (optional, for tanginess)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ¼ cup celery, finely chopped
- ¼ cup red grapes, halved (or apples, diced)
- ¼ cup green onions, chopped
- ¼ cup walnuts or pecans, chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 4 large croissants
- Lettuce leaves (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicken Salad Croissant recipe will take you about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick to whip up and perfect for lunch or a light dinner, and you can serve it right away or chill it in the fridge for a bit until you’re ready to enjoy it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Chicken Salad:
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the diced chicken, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (if you’re using it), Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Stir everything well until the chicken pieces are nicely coated with the dressing. This mixture is where the magic happens!
2. Add the Crunch and Flavor:
Next, gently fold in the chopped celery, halved grapes, green onions, and nuts (if you choose to add them). Give it a little mix to incorporate these fresh ingredients. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste, making it just right for your palate!
3. Prep the Croissants:
Take your croissants and slice them in half horizontally. If you like a bit of crunch, you can toast them lightly in the oven for a few minutes. This step is optional but adds a nice touch!
4. Assemble Your Croissant:
Start by placing a few crisp lettuce leaves on the bottom half of each croissant. This will give your salad a fresh crunch and keep the croissant from getting soggy.
5. Fill With Chicken Salad:
Now, generously spoon the tasty chicken salad mixture onto the lettuce-lined croissants. Don’t be shy—load it up!
6. Complete and Serve:
Place the top half of the croissant back on the filled bottom half. Your Chicken Salad Croissants are ready to be served! You can enjoy them immediately or pop them in the fridge if you want to serve them later.
Enjoy your delicious Chicken Salad Croissant!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds wonderful flavor to the salad. Just make sure to remove the skin and bones before dicing it into bite-sized pieces.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using plain Greek yogurt or avocado instead of mayonnaise. You can also use a combination of both for a creamy yet tangy dressing!
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Salad?
Store leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the salad separate from the croissants until you’re ready to eat, so the croissants don’t become soggy!
Can I Make This Chicken Salad the Night Before?
Yes, you can prep the chicken salad a day in advance! Just mix all the ingredients together and store it in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, simply assemble it in croissants!
