This Sun-dried Tomato Chicken Salad is a tasty mix of juicy chicken, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh greens. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner!
Trust me, once you taste that burst of flavor from the sun-dried tomatoes, you’ll be hooked! I love making a big batch and enjoying it throughout the week! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: You can use any leftover chicken for this salad. Rotisserie chicken is my favorite as it’s pre-cooked and so convenient. If you’re looking for a meat-free option, chickpeas or tofu could also work well.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: For flavor and texture, use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes if you can find them—they’re softer and more flavorful. If not, you can substitute with fresh tomatoes, but make sure to add a few more spices to balance the flavors.
Mayonnaise: This gives the salad creaminess. Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative if you prefer a lighter option. You can also try blending equal parts mayonnaise and sour cream for a different taste.
Dijon Mustard: I love the tang it adds! If you’re out of Dijon, yellow mustard or even a bit of horseradish can work in a pinch, though the flavor will vary.
Fresh Basil: Basil adds a nice touch, but if you don’t have it, try parsley or a sprinkle of Italian seasoning instead. It won’t be exactly the same, but it’ll taste great!
How Do You Make Sure the Salad Flavors Come Together?
To get the best flavor in your Sun-dried Tomato Chicken Salad, chilling is key. After you mix everything together, let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This gives the ingredients a chance to blend and create a delicious balance of flavors.
- Make sure chicken and sun-dried tomatoes are well combined before adding the dressing.
- Mix the dressing ingredients until smooth for a more uniform flavor.
- Stir the salad gently but thoroughly to coat everything in the dressing evenly.
Delicious Sun-dried Tomato Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- ¼ cup green onions, chopped
Dressing:
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Ingredients:
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In total, you’ll need around 45 minutes to get this tasty dish ready!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Main Ingredients:
In a large bowl, place the shredded or diced chicken and add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes. These two will form the base of your salad and create a wonderful flavor together.
2. Add Freshness:
Next, stir in the chopped green onions. If you’re using fresh basil, add that too! It gives a lovely herbal flavor. Mix everything well so that it’s evenly blended.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir it well until it’s smooth and creamy. This dressing will bring all the flavors together!
4. Combine and Chill:
Pour the dressing over the chicken and sun-dried tomato mixture. Gently stir everything until all the ingredients are evenly coated in the dressing. Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes. This waiting time helps the flavors meld beautifully!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
After chilling, your Sun-dried Tomato Chicken Salad is ready to serve! You can enjoy it on its own, on a bed of fresh greens, or even as a tasty filling in a sandwich. Dig in and savor every bite!
Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead of Sun-Dried Tomatoes?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! Just chop them finely and note that they will add more moisture. To balance the extra liquid, you might want to decrease the amount of mayonnaise slightly or add a pinch of salt to draw out some moisture from the tomatoes.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make this salad dairy-free, simply substitute regular mayonnaise with a dairy-free version or Greek yogurt. Check the labels to ensure there are no dairy ingredients if you have allergies. You might also want to add more flavorful spices to enhance the taste!
Can I Store Leftovers and How Long Will They Last?
Yes, you can store leftovers! Keep the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain flavor and freshness, it’s best to store the dressing separately from the chicken salad until you’re ready to serve.
What’s the Best Way to Serve Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Salad?
This salad is versatile! Serve it on a bed of mixed greens for a light meal, inside a sandwich or wrap for a hearty lunch, or even with crackers as an appetizer. It also pairs well with fresh vegetables like cucumber or bell peppers for dipping!
