Looking for a fresh and flavorful way to enjoy chicken salad without the heaviness of mayonnaise? Look no further! Our Tasting Table Cold Chicken Salad No Mayo recipe combines juicy chicken with a zesty honey mustard dressing, crunchy vegetables, and a burst of flavor that will leave your taste buds singing. Perfect for meal prep or as a light lunch option, this salad is not only healthy but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a summer picnic or simply craving a wholesome meal, this no-mayo chicken salad will hit the spot.
Ingredients
To make the Tasting Table Cold Chicken Salad No Mayo, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Chicken Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1 cup bell peppers (any color), diced
- ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup carrots, grated
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Honey Mustard Dressing:
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt (for creaminess without mayo)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cooking your chicken. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or boil chicken breasts until fully cooked. Once done, shred or dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Chop the Vegetables
While the chicken is cooling, prepare your vegetables. Chop the celery, bell peppers, red onion, and grate the carrots. Halve the cherry tomatoes and chop the parsley. Make sure to use fresh, vibrant vegetables to enhance the flavor and texture of the salad.
Step 3: Make the Honey Mustard Dressing
In a bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, honey, and apple cider vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This dressing provides a creamy texture and a tangy sweetness that complements the chicken and vegetables perfectly.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped vegetables, and dressing. Mix gently until everything is evenly coated. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the salad allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve it on a bed of lettuce, in a sandwich, or enjoy it straight from the bowl!
Health Benefits of No Mayo Chicken Salad
- Lower in Calories: Traditional chicken salad often uses mayonnaise, which can significantly increase the calorie count. By using Greek yogurt in our honey mustard dressing, we reduce calories while adding protein.
- Rich in Nutrients: The combination of chicken and fresh vegetables provides a wealth of nutrients, including vitamins A and C, fiber, and protein, making this salad a great option for a balanced diet.
- Versatile: This chicken salad can be customized to include your favorite ingredients. Consider adding avocado, nuts, or other seasonal vegetables for variety.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This dish is ideal for meal prep! Prepare a large batch and portion it out for the week. It stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Tips for the Best Cold Chicken Salad
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for the freshest vegetables and herbs to enhance the salad’s flavor.
- Let It Chill: Allowing the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes helps develop the flavors, making it taste even better.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to adjust the dressing ingredients to suit your taste. Adding herbs like dill or thyme can bring a new dimension to the salad.
Serving Suggestions
This Tasting Table Cold Chicken Salad No Mayo is incredibly versatile. Here are some serving suggestions:
- On a Bed of Greens: Serve the chicken salad on a bed of spinach or mixed greens for a light meal.
- In a Sandwich: Use whole-grain bread or wraps to create a healthy chicken salad sandwich.
- With Crackers: Pair the salad with whole-grain crackers for a satisfying snack.
- Stuffed Avocados: Hollow out avocados and fill them with the chicken salad for a nutritious, low-carb option.
External Resources
- Health Benefits of Greek Yogurt
- The Importance of Meal Prep
- Nutritional Benefits of Fresh Vegetables
Conclusion
Our Tasting Table Cold Chicken Salad No Mayo is a perfect blend of flavor, health, and simplicity. This recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious, guilt-free chicken salad. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch, dinner, or as a snack, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. So why wait? Try making this delightful salad today and savor the incredible taste without the mayo!
