This Chickpea Chicken Salad is a tasty mix of protein-packed chickpeas and tender chicken, all wrapped in a light and zesty dressing. It’s fresh, filling, and super easy to whip up!
Perfect for lunch or a quick dinner, I love how colorful it looks on my plate. Plus, leftovers taste even better the next day. Who knew healthy could be this yummy? 🌱
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Shredded cooked chicken is key for a hearty salad. You can use rotisserie chicken for ease or any leftover chicken you have. For a vegetarian twist, swap it out for more chickpeas or diced tofu.
Chickpeas: Canned chickpeas save time. Remember to rinse them well to remove excess sodium. If you prefer dry, soak and cook them ahead of time. Another option is canned white beans or lentils for a different texture.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes enhance flavor beautifully. If unavailable, rehydrate dried ones in hot water or substitute with roasted red peppers for a fresher taste.
Greek Yogurt or Mayonnaise: Greek yogurt adds protein and tanginess, while mayonnaise creates creaminess. Feel free to use a vegan mayo or plain yogurt if you’re avoiding dairy.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice is my favorite for that bright zing! If you don’t have a lemon, vinegar like apple cider or white wine can work, but adjust to taste as vinegar is stronger.
How Do I Get the Perfect Creamy Dressing?
Mixing the dressing well is crucial for a creamy consistency. Use a whisk or fork to combine Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Start with the yogurt as the base, adding the mustard, lemon juice, and garlic powder gradually.
- Season with salt and pepper; whisk until smooth and creamy.
- Taste as you go, adjusting with more acid (lemon juice or vinegar) or seasoning as desired.
This dressing ties the chickpeas and chicken together beautifully, making each bite delicious! Enjoy the creamy goodness!
How to Make Chickpea Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed for added flavor)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Dressing Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/4 tsp paprika for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chickpea Chicken Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes in the fridge to chill and let the flavors blend together. In less than an hour, you’ll have a refreshing and tasty dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, drained chickpeas, diced celery, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, and chopped parsley. Give everything a good mix using a spatula or spoon to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Prepare the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, mix together your choice of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined and smooth. This will be the creamy dressing for your salad!
3. Toss the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the chicken and chickpea mixture. Gently toss everything together until all the salad ingredients are nicely coated in the dressing. Be careful not to mash the chickpeas as you mix!
4. Taste and Adjust Seasons:
Take a moment to taste your salad and adjust the seasoning if needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Just make sure it suits your taste!
5. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the salad with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes the salad refreshing.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, it’s time to serve! You can enjoy this salad on a bed of lettuce, in a sandwich, or paired with your favorite crackers. If you like, sprinkle a little paprika on top for a pop of color. Enjoy your delicious Chickpea Chicken Salad!
Can I Use Canned Chicken Instead of Cooked Chicken?
Absolutely! Canned chicken can be a great time-saver. Just drain it well and shred it with a fork. Since canned chicken is already cooked, you can skip the shredding step unless you prefer a specific texture.
Can I Substitute Greek Yogurt with Something Else?
Yes, if you’re not a fan of Greek yogurt, you can substitute it with mayonnaise, sour cream, or even a low-fat ranch dressing for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that using mayonnaise will make the salad creamier, while sour cream will add a tangy twist!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Chickpea Chicken Salad?
This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as some ingredients may settle. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change when thawed.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to add extra veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or even diced cucumbers for crunch. Just be mindful of the moisture they bring to the salad, as that could alter the dressing’s consistency. Enjoy customizing it to your taste!
