This Crunchy Spicy Chicken Salad is a tasty mix of crispy chicken, fresh veggies, and a zesty dressing that gives it a kick! Perfect for a light lunch or a quick dinner.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded chicken is key here. You can use rotisserie chicken for ease, or leftover cooked chicken if you have it. For a vegetarian option, consider using shredded tofu or chickpeas for a similar texture.
Celery: Celery adds crunch and flavor. If you’re not a fan, try using chopped cucumbers or jicama for a different crunch.
Red Bell Pepper: This gives a sweet and tangy taste. Yellow or orange bell peppers work well too. For a kick, try using a spicy pepper like jalapeño, just be cautious with the heat!
Mayonnaise: It binds everything together. You can substitute plain Greek yogurt for a healthier option, or use vegan mayo if you prefer a plant-based version.
Sriracha Sauce: This adds the spice level! You can adjust it to your taste. If you need a milder option, use a hot sauce like Frank’s RedHot or omit it and add a sprinkle of chili powder instead.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Flavor Balance?
For the best flavor in your salad, seasoning is key. When mixing the dressing, start with the recommended amounts and taste as you go. Add a little more sriracha if you like it spicier, or more lemon juice for a refreshing zing.
- Mix ingredients well to combine flavors. The mayonnaise and sriracha should blend smoothly, so whisk until you see no lumps.
- Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes. This time lets the flavors meld beautifully. It could even taste better the next day!
- Adjust seasoning just before serving. Sometimes a little extra salt and fresh pepper can brighten the dish.
How to Make Crunchy Spicy Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- ½ cup green onions, chopped
- ½ cup slivered almonds or chopped walnuts
For the Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving (Optional):
- Tortilla chips or crackers
How Much Time Will You Need?
This crunchy spicy chicken salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes in the fridge to chill. In less than an hour, you’ll have a delicious and refreshing meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
Start by taking a large bowl and adding the shredded cooked chicken, chopped celery, diced red bell pepper, chopped green onions, and the slivered almonds (or walnuts). Give it a gentle mix with a spoon to combine all the ingredients evenly.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until the dressing is smooth and creamy. This will give your salad a tasty kick!
3. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture. Carefully toss everything together until all the chicken and vegetables are well coated with the dressing. It should look vibrant and delicious!
4. Chill and Season:
Before serving, cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors mix and taste even better! Once chilled, taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more sriracha for extra heat if you like it spicy.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, spoon the crunchy spicy chicken salad onto a plate or bowl. You can enjoy it on its own or with some tortilla chips or crackers for extra crunch. Dig in and enjoy this tasty dish!
Can I Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken is perfect for this salad. Just shred the chicken and use it as you would with any cooked chicken. It adds extra flavor and saves time!
How Can I Make This Salad Less Spicy?
If you prefer a milder salad, reduce the amount of sriracha sauce or substitute it with a mild creamy dressing, like ranch or a yogurt-based dressing. You can also add more mayonnaise to balance out the heat!
What is the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, give it a good stir; you may want to add a little extra mayonnaise or lemon juice to freshen it up!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in other crunchy vegetables like cucumbers, carrots, or even corn for added sweetness and texture. Just make sure to chop them small enough so they blend well with the other ingredients!
