This Chicken Salad is a refreshing mix of tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and creamy dressing that makes it a tasty meal or snack. Perfect for hot days!
Every bite feels like a summer picnic in your mouth! I love putting it on fresh bread or just enjoying it by itself. Simple to make and oh-so-good! 🥗
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is great for this recipe since it’s already cooked and flavorful. If you don’t have it, you can use leftover chicken or even canned chicken. Just make sure to shred it into bite-sized pieces for the best texture.
Mayonnaise: Classic mayo ties everything together, but if you want a lighter version, consider using avocado mayo or even a combination of mayo and plain yogurt. However, keep in mind that Greek yogurt adds a nice tang!
Greek Yogurt: This is optional but delightful for some extra creaminess and tang. If you prefer not using it, you can skip it or replace it with sour cream. For a dairy-free option, try using avocado or a plant-based yogurt.
Nuts (Almonds/Pecans): Nuts add a nice crunch! If you have a nut allergy, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can be a great alternative. They still provide that crunch without any nuts.
Celery: Celery brings fresh crunch. If you’re not a fan, you can swap it for diced apples or grapes for a touch of sweetness. Both give a nice contrast to the chicken.
How Do You Achieve a Creamy Consistency in the Dressing?
Mixing a smooth dressing is key to this chicken salad. Here’s how you can do it effortlessly:
- In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (if using), Dijon mustard, and lemon juice.
- Use a whisk or spoon to mix these ingredients together until smooth. This ensures that the mustard is evenly distributed.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste; adjust according to your preference.
- For extra flair, incorporate herbs like dill or parsley into your dressing for a fresh touch.
Taking a few moments to blend your dressing well makes all the difference in flavor and texture!
How to Make Round Swamp Farm Chicken Salad Dupe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt (optional, for added tanginess)
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- ¼ cup green onions, chopped
- ¼ cup almonds or pecans, chopped (optional for crunch)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes in the fridge to chill. In total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes to enjoy your delicious chicken salad!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Chicken Base:
Start by placing the shredded chicken into a large mixing bowl. This will be the base of your salad, so make sure the chicken is nicely shredded and ready to go!
2. Prepare the Dressing:
In a separate bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (if you’re using it), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and well-blended. This dressing is what will make your salad creamy and flavorful!
3. Combine Chicken and Dressing:
Pour your delicious dressing over the shredded chicken. Use a spatula or spoon to gently mix everything together until the chicken is coated in that tasty dressing. Make sure it’s all mixed well!
4. Add Fresh Ingredients:
Next, fold in the chopped celery, green onions, and chopped nuts (if using). These add a wonderful crunch and extra flavor to your chicken salad. Stir carefully to combine everything without smashing the chicken too much!
5. Chill and Serve:
Once everything is mixed, taste your chicken salad and adjust the seasoning if needed. Then, cover the bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the flavors meld together beautifully!
6. Enjoy!
After chilling, serve your chicken salad however you like! It’s great on its own, on a bed of lettuce, or stuffed into a sandwich. Enjoy this tasty homemade version of Round Swamp Farm’s chicken salad!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Store-bought rotisserie chicken is a perfect shortcut for this recipe. Just remove the skin and shred the meat. It saves you time while still delivering delicious flavor!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you prefer a lighter option or need a mayo substitute, try using avocado or silken tofu blended until smooth. Greek yogurt can also replace mayonnaise completely for a tangy twist!
How to Store Leftover Chicken Salad?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to give it a gentle stir before serving again to redistribute the dressing!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Salad?
Yes! Feel free to customize by adding ingredients like diced apples for sweetness, grapes for a pop of flavor, or even hard-boiled eggs for extra protein. Just keep the balance of wet and dry ingredients in mind!
