This chicken salad is creamy and packed with flavor! It’s made with tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and a smooth dressing that’s hard to resist. Perfect for a quick lunch!
I sometimes make a big batch and enjoy it for days. It’s delicious on sandwiches or even by itself! Definitely a dish that makes my lunch break feel special! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: You can use any cooked chicken, but I like rotisserie chicken for its flavor and convenience. If you have leftover chicken, that’s a great option too! Just shred it up and you’re good to go.
Mayonnaise: This is a must for creaminess, but if you’re looking for a lighter choice, try plain yogurt or avocado. They will still give you a creamy texture but with different flavors.
Celery: Chopped celery adds crunch. If you don’t have celery on hand, diced apples can be a sweet crunchy alternative. They also add a refreshing touch!
Red Onion: This adds a nice bite. If it’s too strong for your taste, use green onions instead or even sweet onions for a milder flavor.
Dijon Mustard: It brings out the flavor. If you’re out of Dijon, yellow mustard works fine too. It’s not as tangy, but it will still add some kick.
Grapes: These are optional for sweetness. If you prefer not to use grapes, diced apples or dried cranberries can also add a nice sweet element.
How Do You Ensure the Best Flavor in Your Chicken Salad?
To really amp up the flavor in this chicken salad, be mindful of the mixing process and seasoning. It’s simple, but extra steps can enhance the taste.
- Mix the chicken with the mayonnaise and yogurt well to ensure all the ingredients are combined.
- After adding celery, onion, and mustard, taste and adjust seasoning as you go. A little salt and pepper make a big difference.
- Let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully and makes a noticeable difference in taste.
How to Make Round Swamp Farm Chicken Salad Dupe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt (optional for creaminess)
- ¼ cup celery, finely chopped
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins:
- ¼ cup grapes, halved (for sweetness)
- ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (for crunch)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This chicken salad recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. In total, you’ll be enjoying your dish in about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Base:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Add the shredded chicken, mayonnaise, and Greek yogurt (if you want that extra creaminess). Stir everything together well until it forms a smooth mixture. You want all the chicken to be coated nicely!
2. Adding Vegetables and Flavor:
Next, toss in the chopped celery, red onion, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Stir the mixture again until everything is combined. It should smell and look delicious by now!
3. Seasoning and Optional Ingredients:
Now it’s time to season your chicken salad! Sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste. If you like, gently fold in the halved grapes and chopped nuts for a sweet and crunchy touch. These add fantastic flavor and texture!
4. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the fridge. Let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes to help all those flavors come together nicely. When you’re ready to serve, enjoy it on a bed of lettuce, in a sandwich, or with your favorite crackers. Enjoy your tasty creation!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just make sure to remove the skin and shred the meat before adding it to the salad. It will add a delicious flavor to your chicken salad!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute mayonnaise with additional Greek yogurt or use avocado instead. Both maintain creaminess, with avocado adding a wonderful flavor twist as well!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Chicken Salad?
Leftover chicken salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Make sure to stir it well before serving since some ingredients may separate. If you’ve added the grapes or nuts, consider adding fresh ones before serving to keep everything crunchy!
Can I Make This Chicken Salad Without Yogurt?
Yes, you can easily make this chicken salad without Greek yogurt. Just use more mayonnaise if you prefer a creamier texture. If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, consider mixing in some mashed avocado or a dairy-free mayo substitute!
