This Easy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Salad is a tasty mix of juicy chicken, zesty sun-dried tomatoes, and crunchy veggies. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
You’ll love how quickly it comes together. Just toss everything in a bowl, and you’ve got a fresh and flavorful meal. Plus, it’s great for meal prep too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded or chopped cooked chicken breast is necessary for this dish. You can easily use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or replace it with leftover chicken or turkey.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a sweet, tangy flavor. Opt for oil-packed tomatoes for a richer taste. If you can’t find them, use fresh tomatoes, but you’ll need to sauté them a bit for flavor.
Mayonnaise: This makes the salad creamy. Adjust the amount to your taste. For a lighter option, replace it with avocado mash or use sour cream instead.
Greek Yogurt: This is optional but adds additional creaminess and protein. You can skip it or use a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt if needed.
Capers: They bring a saltiness and tang. If you’re not a fan, you can replace them with diced pickles for a crunch or omit them altogether.
How Do I Keep My Chicken Salad from Being Dry?
A common challenge with chicken salad is keeping it creamy and flavorful. Here are some tips to ensure your salad hits the mark:
- Use a combination of mayonnaise and Greek yogurt for creaminess—this mix adds depth.
- Opt for oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, as their oil contributes moisture and flavor.
- Don’t forget to adjust seasonings like salt and pepper. A sprinkle of lemon juice brightens up the flavors.
Lastly, chilling the salad allows the flavors to meld together nicely, so give it a little time in the fridge—trust me, it’s worth it!
How to Make Easy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped (use oil-packed for more flavor)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt (optional, for creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped
- 1 teaspoon capers (optional, for a tangy bite)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. In total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes before you can enjoy your delicious chicken salad!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Your Base Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, start by adding the cooked, shredded chicken and the finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Mix them together gently to combine.
2. Add Creaminess:
Next, add in the mayonnaise and Greek yogurt (if you’re using it). Mix everything well until the chicken is fully coated and creamy. This is what makes the chicken salad deliciously rich!
3. Mix in the Fresh Ingredients:
Now it’s time to stir in the fresh parsley, green onions, and capers if you’re using them. Give it a good mix to ensure these ingredients are evenly distributed throughout.
4. Season to Taste:
Add the garlic powder, salt, pepper, and the freshly squeezed lemon juice. Mix thoroughly for a balanced flavor. Don’t be shy to taste it—adjust the seasonings and mayonnaise as necessary for your desired creaminess and flavor punch.
5. Chill for Flavor Development:
Cover the bowl or transfer the salad to an airtight container and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps all those wonderful flavors blend together beautifully!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
After chilling, you can serve your sun-dried tomato chicken salad on its own, over a bed of greens, or even in a sandwich or wrap. Enjoy this quick and tasty meal any time!
Bon appétit! This flavorful salad is not just easy to make but also packed with delicious ingredients that complement each other perfectly.
FAQ: Easy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Salad
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover roasted or rotisserie chicken works perfectly. Just shred or chop it up to use in the salad. It’s a great way to use up extra chicken and minimize food waste!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you prefer a lighter option, you can replace mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt, avocado, or even a bit of hummus. Each will add creaminess while imparting a unique flavor.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
The chicken salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving, as the ingredients may settle.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to add diced celery, bell peppers, or even cucumbers for extra crunch. Just keep in mind that adding more veggies may change the overall texture and flavor balance, so adjust the seasonings if needed.
