This Sun-dried Tomato Chicken Salad bursts with flavor! Tender chicken pieces mix with tangy sun-dried tomatoes, crunchy veggies, and a tasty dressing that brings everything together.
Honestly, this salad turns any meal into a celebration. It’s light but filling, perfect for lunch or dinner. I often add some extra tomatoes—because why not? 🍅
Making this salad is a breeze! Just toss everything together, and you’ve got a delicious dish in no time. It’s great as a snack or a meal prep for the week ahead!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded or diced chicken is key here. You can use rotisserie chicken to save time. Alternatively, try turkey or even canned chicken if you’re in a pinch!
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a burst of flavor, but if you don’t have them, roasted red peppers or even regular tomatoes can work. Just remember to drain them well!
Mayonnaise and Greek Yogurt: I love the combo of mayo and Greek yogurt for creaminess and a hint of tang. If you’re looking for lighter options, swap for mashed avocado or silken tofu blended until smooth.
Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley adds freshness. You can also use cilantro or basil for a different twist. Just choose what you enjoy!
Capers: They offer a salty, briny kick. If you can’t find them, chopped olives can be a good substitute for similar flavor.
How Can You Make the Creamiest Chicken Salad?
The secret to a creamy chicken salad lies in how you mix your mayo and yogurt. Instead of just pouring them in, follow these simple steps:
- In a separate bowl, whisk the mayo and Greek yogurt until smooth before adding any other ingredients. This ensures a well-mixed dressing.
- Add the lemon juice and garlic powder to this mixture for extra flavor. The acidity from the lemon juice helps balance the richness.
- When combining with the chicken, make sure to stir gently to keep the chicken pieces intact and evenly coated.
How to Make Sun-dried Tomato Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (or additional mayonnaise)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Flavor and Texture:
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This sun-dried tomato chicken salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick and tasty dish, perfect for lunch or a light dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Main Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded or diced chicken along with the chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Stir them together gently to mix.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate bowl, mix the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use a whisk or spoon to combine everything until it’s smooth and creamy.
3. Combine Everything Together:
Pour the creamy dressing over the chicken and sun-dried tomatoes. Stir well to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
4. Add the Fresh Ingredients:
Gently fold in the chopped green onions, parsley, and capers. This will add a fresh crunch and extra flavor to your salad.
5. Taste and Adjust:
Now it’s time to taste your salad! If you think it needs more flavor, feel free to add a little more salt, pepper, or even a splash more lemon juice.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your sun-dried tomato chicken salad is ready to serve! Enjoy it on its own, over a bed of greens, or in a tasty sandwich or wrap. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or even leftover grilled or baked chicken. Just make sure it’s shredded or diced into bite-sized pieces for the best texture in the salad.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a healthier option or want to avoid mayonnaise, you can use Greek yogurt entirely, or try avocado puree for a creamy texture. Just keep in mind that this may change the flavor slightly, but it can add a deliciously fresh twist!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you find the salad has thickened, you can stir in a bit of Greek yogurt or a splash of lemon juice to revive the creaminess before serving.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to add chopped cucumbers, bell peppers, or even avocado for extra color and nutrition. Just make sure to keep the vegetable pieces small for easy mixing and serving!
