This Easy Sonoma Chicken Salad is a tasty mix of juicy chicken, crunchy nuts, and sweet grapes. It’s perfect for a light lunch or a picnic.
I love whipping this up in no time! Just toss everything together, and you have a meal that feels fancy but is super easy. Perfect for warm days! ☀️
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: For the best flavor, I recommend using rotisserie chicken. It’s already cooked and saves time. If you have leftover cooked chicken, that works too!
Grapes: Red seedless grapes add sweetness and a pop of color. You can substitute with green grapes for a different taste or even apples for crunch.
Celery: Celery provides crunch and freshness. If you’re not a fan, chopped bell peppers or carrots can be a great alternative.
Red Onion: I like the sharpness of red onion, but you could use green onions (scallions) for a milder flavor or leave it out if you prefer.
Mayonnaise & Greek Yogurt: Mayonnaise adds creaminess. If you want a lighter version, use plain yogurt or a vegan mayo if needed.
Poppy Seeds: These add a nice touch. If you don’t have any, feel free to skip them or use sesame seeds for a different flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Salad Stays Fresh?
Keeping your chicken salad fresh is all about how you store it. Here’s what I recommend:
- Chill the salad in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors mix.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It should last 2-3 days.
- If possible, keep nuts (like pecans) separate until serving to maintain their crunch.
- Avoid adding too much dressing until ready to eat to keep everything from getting soggy.
Enjoy your delicious Sonoma Chicken Salad! It’s a perfect dish for warm days or when you want something light and refreshing.
Easy Sonoma Chicken Salad
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup red seedless grapes, halved
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt or sour cream (optional for creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup toasted pecans, roughly chopped (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy Sonoma Chicken Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick and refreshing dish that stores well in the fridge for later snacking or lunching!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Chicken and Veggies:
In a large mixing bowl, mix together the shredded cooked chicken, halved grapes, chopped celery, and diced red onion. This is the heart of your salad, so ensure everything is evenly distributed.
2. Make the Creamy Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, optional Greek yogurt or sour cream, lemon juice, poppy seeds, salt, and pepper. Keep whisking until the mixture is nice and smooth.
3. Mix It All Together:
Pour the creamy dressing over the chicken mixture. Toss everything gently but thoroughly, so all the ingredients are coated in the delicious dressing.
4. Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
Take a moment to taste your salad. Feel free to add more salt and pepper depending on your preference. Every bite should be flavorful!
5. Add Nuts for Crunch:
If you’re using toasted pecans, fold them in carefully for a delightful crunch. They add a lovely texture that balances out the creaminess of the salad.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a nice pop of color and freshness. You can chill the salad for a bit if you like, but it’s ready to enjoy right away!
7. Enjoy Your Salad:
Serve the chicken salad chilled, on a bed of greens, in a sandwich, or with your favorite crackers. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways!
This salad is fresh and creamy, with a perfect mix of sweet grapes, crunchy celery, and tangy poppy seed dressing. It’s great for lunches, picnics, or as a light dinner. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds delicious flavor to the salad. Just shred it and mix with the other ingredients as directed.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking to lighten up the salad or avoid mayonnaise, you can use plain Greek yogurt, avocado, or a vegan mayo for a creamy alternative. Each option will add a slightly different flavor, so choose what suits your taste best!
How Long Will Leftovers Last in the Fridge?
Your Sonoma Chicken Salad will last in an airtight container in the fridge for about 2-3 days. Just be sure to keep the nuts separate until you’re ready to eat, so they stay crunchy!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to customize it by adding ingredients like diced apples, chopped walnuts, or even dried cranberries for extra flavor and texture. Just keep in mind that it may change the overall taste, but it’s fun to make it your own!
