This Easy Sonoma Chicken Salad is a tasty mix of juicy chicken, crunchy nuts, and sweet grapes all tossed in a creamy dressing. It’s like a picnic in a bowl!
I love to serve this salad on a bed of lettuce or in a sandwich. Perfect for lunch or a light dinner. Plus, it’s so easy to make—you’ll feel like a chef in no time! 🥗✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded chicken breast is the base here, but rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut! You can also use canned chicken for convenience. If you want a vegetarian version, consider using chickpeas or tofu instead.
Red Grapes: Seedless red grapes add sweetness and color. If you can’t find them, green grapes also work well. Diced apples or dried cranberries could be nice alternatives for a different twist.
Celery: Celery adds a pleasing crunch and flavor. If you don’t like celery, chopped bell peppers or cucumbers can provide similar texture. For more nutrition, try adding diced carrots!
Pecans: Toasted pecans give a nice crunch and flavor. If you prefer, walnuts or sliced almonds are tasty substitutes. For a nut-free option, just skip them or use sunflower seeds.
Mayonnaise: A creamy dressing binds everything together. You could swap half with Greek yogurt for a lighter version. If you need a vegan option, use a plant-based mayo.
How Do You Keep the Salad Fresh and Flavorful?
To keep this salad fresh, chill it in the refrigerator for a while before serving. It allows the flavors to meld beautifully! Here are some tips:
- Use fresh, quality ingredients for the best taste.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It should last up to 3 days.
- Avoid adding lettuce or other greens until just before serving to keep them crisp.
And always taste the salad before serving! Adjusting seasoning can make a big difference in flavor.
Easy Sonoma Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup seedless red grapes, halved
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup toasted pecans, chopped
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 30 minutes of chilling time for the flavors to meld. In just under an hour, you’ll have a delicious salad ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Gather Your Ingredients:
Start by gathering all your ingredients. It makes the process smoother and more fun if you have everything ready to go!
2. Combine the Main Ingredients:
In a large bowl, add the shredded chicken, halved grapes, finely chopped celery, red onion, and toasted pecans. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together.
3. Whisk the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, poppy seeds, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
4. Mix Everything Together:
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture in the large bowl. Carefully toss everything together to coat all the ingredients evenly with the creamy dressing.
5. Taste and Adjust:
Give the salad a taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if you like it a little zingier!
6. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step helps develop the flavors and makes it refreshing.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, give the salad a stir and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for an extra touch. Serve the Sonoma Chicken Salad on its own, over a bed of lettuce, or in your favorite sandwich. Enjoy this creamy, crunchy, fruity chicken salad that’s fresh and satisfying!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver and adds great flavor. Just shred the chicken and use it as directed in the recipe!
What If I Don’t Have Poppy Seeds?
No problem! Poppy seeds add a nice crunch, but they’re not essential. You can substitute with sesame seeds or simply leave them out. The salad will still be delicious!
How Long Does the Salad Last in the Fridge?
The Sonoma Chicken Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick stir before serving as the ingredients might settle.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, this salad is perfect for meal prep! You can make it a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge to let all the flavors meld, and enjoy it when you’re ready!
