I am beyond excited to share my absolutely delicious and satisfying Super Yummy Chicken Salad Recipe with you! This dish is the perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and savory flavors that come together in a harmony you’ll crave again and again. Whether you need a quick lunch, a picnic treat, or a crowd-pleasing dish, this chicken salad is the answer. With juicy chicken, crisp celery, sweet grapes, and crunchy cashews all coated in a tangy and smooth dressing, every bite is pure comfort and joy. Trust me, once you try this Super Yummy Chicken Salad Recipe, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Super Yummy Chicken Salad Recipe lies in its simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a special role in creating that perfect balance of texture, flavor, and heartiness that makes this salad shine.
- Plain Greek yogurt: Using 2% milkfat or higher adds creaminess and a pleasant tang that brightens the dish.
- Mayonnaise: Blends perfectly with the yogurt to create a rich and smooth dressing.
- Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle kick and depth of flavor to the dressing.
- Sugar or honey: Just a touch to balance the tanginess and enhance the sweetness of the grapes.
- Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
- Onion powder: Provides a gentle, savory undertone without overpowering.
- Garlic powder: Offers a mild, aromatic hint that wakes up the taste buds.
- Cooked chicken: The star of the show, cubed or diced rotisserie chicken breast adds satisfying protein and texture.
- Red grapes: Sweet and juicy, these give the salad brightness and unexpected pops of flavor.
- Celery: Adds crispness and a refreshing contrast to the creamy dressing.
- Roasted cashew halves and pieces: Bring in a buttery crunch that is absolutely addictive.
- Extra seasonings: Feel free to add dried or fresh herbs like chives for an extra dimension of flavor and freshness.
How to Make Super Yummy Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Whisk the Dressing
Start by combining the plain Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, sugar (or honey), kosher salt, onion powder, and garlic powder in a bowl. Whisk everything together until the dressing is perfectly smooth and creamy. Don’t be shy to taste it here—remember it should be a bit concentrated because it’s going to be mixed with all the other ingredients.
Step 2: Mix the Main Ingredients
Now, toss your cubed cooked chicken, sliced red grapes, finely diced celery, and roasted cashew pieces into a large mixing bowl. These ingredients form the heart and soul of your chicken salad, providing a lovely variety of texture and flavor in every bite.
Step 3: Combine and Coat
Pour as much of the dressing as you like over the chicken mixture and gently toss everything together. The goal here is to coat each delicious piece evenly without making it soggy, so start with a little and add more if you want it creamier.
Step 4: Season and Adjust
Give your Super Yummy Chicken Salad Recipe a taste test and add extra seasoning to your heart’s content. I love stirring in some freeze-dried chives and white pepper at this stage—it adds a subtle zing and a touch of elegance. Make sure every flavor sings together harmoniously.
Step 5: You’re Done! Yay!
That’s it! Your Super Yummy Chicken Salad Recipe is ready to devour. Serve it immediately or chill it for an hour to let the flavors meld beautifully. Either way, you’re in for a treat.
How to Serve Super Yummy Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives really elevates the dish visually and flavor-wise. You can also add a few extra cashew halves on top to enhance the crunch and presentation. Fresh cracked black pepper is also a lovely finishing touch.
Side Dishes
This chicken salad pairs wonderfully with light sides such as mixed green salads, crisp garden veggies, or slices of crusty whole wheat bread. If you’re hosting a picnic, consider serving it with crunchy crackers or pita chips for dipping.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try spooning the Super Yummy Chicken Salad Recipe into avocado halves or hollowed-out tomatoes. It also makes a stellar sandwich filling or a delicious wrap stuffing, letting you enjoy it in so many versatile and creative ways.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your Super Yummy Chicken Salad Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days. Remember to give it a gentle stir before serving again.
Freezing
This chicken salad doesn’t freeze very well because of the creamy dressing and fresh ingredients. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of preparation for optimal texture and flavor.
Reheating
This salad is meant to be served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not recommended. If you prefer a warm meal, enjoy the salad as a cold side or use the chicken separately warmed in other dishes.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of nuts?
Absolutely! While roasted cashews add a buttery crunch, you can swap them for almonds, pecans, or walnuts depending on your preference and what you have on hand.
Is it okay to use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken breast is a fantastic and time-saving choice that works perfectly in the Super Yummy Chicken Salad Recipe. It’s flavorful and tender.
Can I substitute the Greek yogurt?
You can replace Greek yogurt with sour cream or all-mayo dressing, but Greek yogurt adds a lighter, tangier element that balances the richness beautifully.
How long does this chicken salad last in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container, this salad stays fresh for about 4 days. Always check for freshness before eating leftovers.
Can I make this salad vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute the chicken for chickpeas or a plant-based protein, use vegan mayo, and ensure your seasonings fit your dietary preferences. It will still be super yummy!
Final Thoughts
There’s something so comforting and fulfilling about a well-made chicken salad, and this Super Yummy Chicken Salad Recipe truly hits all the right notes. It’s quick to prepare, packed with flavor and texture, and endlessly versatile. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own go-to recipe for lunches, gatherings, or simple weeknight dinners. You’re going to love how easily this one becomes a favorite!
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Super Yummy Chicken Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
A quick and delicious chicken salad recipe featuring a creamy Greek yogurt and mayo dressing with a hint of Dijon mustard and sweetness from grapes. Packed with savory flavors from garlic and onion powders, crunchy celery and roasted cashews, this versatile salad is perfect for wraps, sandwiches, or simply served plain. Ready in just 15 minutes, it makes a wholesome and satisfying meal or snack for up to 6 servings.
Ingredients
Dressing
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (2% milkfat or higher)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons sugar (or honey, to taste)
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 3/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salad Mix-ins
- 2 1/2 cups cooked chicken, cubed or diced (rotisserie chicken breast preferred)
- 1 1/2 cups red grapes, sliced
- 1 cup finely diced celery (about 2–3 stalks)
- 1 cup roasted cashew halves and pieces
- Optional: dried or fresh herbs such as dried chives, plus salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Dressing: Whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, sugar, kosher salt, onion powder, and garlic powder until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning, keeping in mind the dressing should be somewhat salty and concentrated as it will blend with the other ingredients.
- Mix: In a large bowl, toss the cooked chicken, sliced grapes, diced celery, and roasted cashews together. Add as much dressing as you prefer and mix thoroughly to evenly coat the ingredients.
- Season: Taste the salad and add any extra seasonings you desire such as dried chives, white pepper, or additional salt and pepper. Mix gently to incorporate.
- Serve and Store: Enjoy this chicken salad cold on a whole wheat wrap, lettuce leaf wrap, sandwich, toast, or with crackers. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and added flavor.
- Adjust sweetness with sugar or honey according to taste preference.
- Feel free to add fresh or dried herbs such as chives or parsley for extra flavor.
- This salad is best served chilled but can be enjoyed at room temperature briefly.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
