This Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Salad is perfect for anyone who loves a burst of flavor! Juicy chicken, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh greens come together for a tasty meal.
It’s super easy to whip up, making it a great choice for lunch or dinner. I love adding a sprinkle of cheese on top; it really makes everything sing! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Shredded cooked chicken is essential here. I often use rotisserie chicken for ease. If you’re looking for a healthier option, grilled chicken breast works well too. If you’re vegetarian, consider substituting with chickpeas or tofu for protein.
Sun-dried Tomatoes: These add a wonderful depth of flavor. You can find them in oil or dry. If unavailable, try using roasted red peppers for a different twist, or even fresh tomatoes in a pinch.
Mayonnaise & Greek Yogurt: The mix of these creates a creamy texture. Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative and adds tang. If you’re vegan, use a plant-based mayo or yogurt instead.
Green Onions: They offer a mild onion flavor that brightens the salad. If you don’t have them, chives or regular onions (use sparingly) can work as substitutes.
Capers: While optional, they bring a nice briny touch. If you don’t have capers, a splash of pickle juice or olives can provide a similar flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Salad Has the Right Flavor and Texture?
Getting the right balance of flavors and creaminess is key to a great chicken salad. Here’s how to nail it:
- Make sure your chicken is properly shredded and not in large chunks. This helps the dressing coat everything evenly.
- Mix the mayonnaise and Greek yogurt well before adding to the chicken. This prevents clumping and ensures a consistent texture.
- Don’t skip on letting the salad sit for 30 minutes in the fridge. This allows flavors to combine better, enhancing the overall taste.
- When adjusting seasoning, add salt and pepper gradually, as it’s easier to add than to fix an overly salty mix.
How to Make Sun-dried Tomato Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (can use rotisserie chicken)
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon capers, rinsed and chopped (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (or additional mayonnaise)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare. If you choose to refrigerate it for the flavors to meld, add an extra 30 minutes. So, you can enjoy a fresh and flavorful chicken salad in just under 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken and Tomatoes:
Start by taking a large mixing bowl and adding your shredded cooked chicken to it. Next, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Stir these two ingredients together gently until mixed.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use a whisk or fork to blend everything well until it’s creamy and smooth. This dressing will bring all your salad flavors together!
3. Combine Salad and Dressing:
Pour the dressing mixture over the chicken and sun-dried tomatoes. Stir everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. This is where the magic happens!
4. Add Fresh Ingredients:
Carefully fold in the sliced green onions, chopped parsley, and capers if you’re using them. These fresh ingredients add a great crunch and flavor to your salad.
5. Taste and Adjust:
Take a small taste of your salad. If you feel it needs a bit more flavor, add some extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your taste. This is your chance to customize it!
6. Serve or Chill:
You can serve the chicken salad right away if you’re excited to dig in! But if you have a bit of time, let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavors. Whether you enjoy it on its own, in a sandwich, or over a bed of greens, it’s bound to be delicious!
Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead of Sun-Dried Tomatoes?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh tomatoes, use about 1-2 medium-sized tomatoes, diced. Be aware that the flavor will be different, and you may want to add a bit more seasoning since fresh tomatoes can be less tangy than sun-dried ones.
Can I Substitute the Greek Yogurt?
Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt with an equal amount of sour cream or even extra mayonnaise if you prefer a creamier texture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, plain non-dairy yogurt can also work well!
How Long Does This Chicken Salad Last in the Fridge?
This salad will last for up to 3 days in the fridge if stored in an airtight container. To maintain the best texture, keep the green onions and parsley separate until you’re ready to serve, as they can wilt over time.
Can I Freeze This Chicken Salad?
It’s not recommended to freeze chicken salad because the mayonnaise and yogurt can change texture once thawed. However, you can freeze the cooked chicken in advance, then prepare the salad fresh when you’re ready to serve!
