This Sun-dried Tomato Chicken Salad is a tasty mix of juicy chicken, zesty sun-dried tomatoes, and crunchy veggies. It’s both fresh and filling!
Best part? You can whip this up in no time for a quick lunch or dinner. I love how it packs a flavor punch without making a mess in the kitchen!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded chicken is key here. You can easily use rotisserie chicken for convenience or any leftover cooked chicken you may have. If you need a vegetarian option, chickpeas or cooked quinoa can be great substitutes.
Sun-dried Tomatoes: The flavor from sun-dried tomatoes adds depth. If you can’t find oil-packed ones, you can soak dried tomatoes in hot water for a bit to soften them up. You can also use fresh tomatoes, but the flavor will be milder.
Mayonnaise: This adds creaminess to the salad. If you’re looking for a lighter version, replace it entirely with Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo. I often mix them for a perfect balanced flavor.
Green Onions: These add a nice crunch and mild onion flavor. If you don’t have green onions, regular onions can work, but use them sparingly as they’re more potent. Chives are another mild alternative.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil brings a fresh taste to the dish. You can also use dried basil, just use a teaspoon instead of a quarter cup. If basil isn’t available, try parsley or cilantro for a different flavor twist.
How Do I Make Sure The Chicken Salad Stays Creamy and Flavorful?
The key to a smooth and tasty chicken salad lies in how well you combine the ingredients. Here are some tips to keep it creamy and flavorful:
- In one bowl, mix the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This ensures even distribution of flavors.
- Combine chicken and sun-dried tomatoes in another bowl before adding the dressing; this helps to coat the chicken well.
- Folding in the green onions and basil gently at the end keeps them whole and bright, adding to the overall texture.
- Letting the salad chill for 30 minutes before serving allows the flavors to blend nicely, enhancing the taste!
How to Make Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably oil-packed)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (optional, for added creaminess)
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (or 1 tsp dried basil)
- 1 tablespoon capers, rinsed and chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty chicken salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. If you have a little extra time, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors blend together beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Main Ingredients:
In a large bowl, add the shredded cooked chicken and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Give them a gentle mix to combine, so every bite will be filled with flavor!
2. Mix the Dressing:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (if you’re using it for creaminess), lemon juice, and a dash of salt and pepper. Keep stirring until everything is well blended and creamy.
3. Combine Salad and Dressing:
Pour the dressing over the chicken and sun-dried tomatoes. Stir everything together until the chicken is nicely coated in the creamy mixture.
4. Add Fresh Ingredients:
Now, fold in the chopped green onions, fresh basil, and capers (if you’re using them). Give it a gentle mix to incorporate these fresh additions—this is where the salad gets even tastier!
5. Taste and Adjust:
Take a moment to taste your salad. You can add more salt and pepper if you’d like—it’s all about making it perfect for your taste!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
You can serve your chicken salad immediately, or if you have a bit more time, cover and refrigerate it for about 30 minutes. This will help the flavors meld together perfectly. Enjoy it on a bed of greens, in a sandwich, or with your favorite crackers!
Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead of Sun-dried Tomatoes?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but keep in mind that the flavor and texture will change! Use about 1 cup of chopped fresh tomatoes and consider draining some excess juice to avoid a watery salad. The robust flavor of sun-dried tomatoes is hard to replicate, so add a bit of balsamic vinegar for a similar tangy profile.
How Can I Make This Salad Creamier Without Extra Calories?
If you’re looking to reduce calories while keeping it creamy, you can substitute half of the mayonnaise with more Greek yogurt. This will maintain the creaminess while boosting the protein content. You can also add a touch of mustard to enhance flavor without adding many calories.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the salad fresh, avoid mixing in the green onions and basil until you’re ready to serve it again, as they can wilt and lose flavor when stored.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Salad?
Absolutely! This salad is versatile. Feel free to add diced celery for a crunch, avocado for creaminess, or even nuts like walnuts or almonds for added texture. Just remember to adjust the seasonings accordingly to balance the new flavors.
