This Delightfully Fresh Chicken Salad is a refreshing and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Combining tender, shredded chicken with a medley of crisp vegetables, creamy dressing, and a hint of zesty flavor, this salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a wholesome meal. Whether you’re hosting a summer picnic, preparing a light lunch, or looking for a quick dinner option, this chicken salad is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 1 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1 cup red grapes, halved
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds (optional for added crunch)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
- 1 teaspoon honey (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: If not using rotisserie chicken, boil or grill chicken breasts until fully cooked. Allow to cool, then shred or chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Chop the Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the finely chopped celery, halved grapes, diced red bell pepper, and sliced green onions. Add the shredded chicken and slivered almonds for a delightful crunch.
- Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust the sweetness or tanginess by adding more honey or vinegar, as desired.
- Combine: Pour the dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Gently toss everything together until well coated. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
- Chill: For the best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Serve: Serve the chicken salad on a bed of greens, in a sandwich, or with whole grain crackers. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.