Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Salad is a vibrant, protein-packed dish featuring tender shredded chicken, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and crunchy veggies all tossed in a zesty citrus basil dressing. This salad combines creamy Greek yogurt and mayonnaise with fresh basil, garlic, and lemon juice for a bright and flavorful dressing that complements the rich textures of the sun-dried tomatoes and chicken.
You’ll love this salad for its fresh yet rich flavor profile, perfect as a light lunch or sandwich filling. The combination of savory chicken, sweet-tart sun-dried tomatoes, and herbal notes from the basil gives each bite a dynamic taste, while the crunchy celery and onion add refreshing texture. Serve it chilled with crackers, on a bed of greens, or layered in your favorite sandwich bread.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
- ⅓ cup plain Greek yogurt
- ⅓ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
How to Create Your Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Salad Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, diced celery, and red onion. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Citrus Basil Dressing
In a smaller bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, chopped basil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Combine and Toss
Pour the dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Toss thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated.
Step 4: Serve
Serve immediately with crackers or as a flavorful filling for sandwiches and wraps.
My Best Tips for Success
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Use good quality sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for best flavor and texture.
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Mix dressing ingredients before adding to ensure even flavor distribution.
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Adjust lemon juice and seasoning according to your taste preferences.
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Add more fresh basil for a brighter herbal note if desired.
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Chill salad briefly or serve immediately as preferred.
Delicious Variations to Try
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Add chopped avocado for creaminess.
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Include toasted nuts like pine nuts or walnuts for crunch.
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Use fresh spinach or arugula as a bed for a salad bowl.
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Incorporate crumbled feta cheese for tangy richness.
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Swap mayonnaise for more Greek yogurt for a lighter salad.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely, shredded cooked chicken works great and is convenient.
How long will the salad keep?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I make the salad ahead?
Yes, but add fresh basil just before serving to keep flavor bright.
Is it keto or low-carb friendly?
Yes, it’s suitable for low-carb diets with no added sugars.
How can I make this dairy-free?
Use dairy-free mayonnaise and substitute yogurt with coconut or almond-based yogurt.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, cucumbers, bell peppers, or olives make great additions.
Print
Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Salad
- Total Time: 15
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Fresh, flavorful salad with shredded chicken, tangy sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy citrus basil dressing for sandwiches, wraps, or sides.
Ingredients
2 cups shredded cooked chicken
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
2 celery stalks, diced
1/4 cup finely diced red onion
1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt
1/3 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tbsp lemon juice
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
Combine shredded chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, celery, and onion.
Whisk Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, basil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Toss dressing with chicken mixture until evenly coated.
Serve immediately or chill before serving. Great on wraps or with greens.
Notes
Use sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for best flavor.
Adjust lemon juice to brighten dressing.
Fresh basil enhances flavor.
Salad keeps chilled up to 3 days.
Perfect with whole grain bread, lettuce cups, or pita.
- Prep Time: 15
- Category: Salad, Lunch
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
Keywords: sun-dried tomato chicken salad, basil chicken salad, creamy chicken salad, mediterranean chicken salad, protein salad recipe
