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If you’re craving a burst of fresh, vibrant flavors combined with satisfying, tender chicken, this Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Salad Recipe is exactly what your lunchbox or dinner table needs. It’s a delightful mix of shredded chicken, tangy sun dried tomatoes, crunchy celery, and zesty red onion all brought together by a luscious citrus basil dressing made from creamy Greek yogurt and mayonnaise. The bright notes of lemon and fresh basil make each bite unforgettable, showcasing how simple ingredients can come together to create a sensational dish that feels both wholesome and indulgent.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface, holding five separate layers of ingredients arranged around each other. At the top left, there is shredded light pink chicken, next to it on the top right is a pile of dark red chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Below the sun-dried tomatoes is bright green diced celery, and to its left is finely chopped purple-red onion. In the center of the bowl lies a creamy white sauce mixed with green herbs, creating a contrast with the other ingredients around it. A white and black striped cloth rests under the bowl photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The ingredient list for this recipe is refreshingly straightforward, but each component plays a crucial role in building layers of texture and flavor. From the savory depth of sun dried tomatoes to the crisp snap of celery, these ingredients are the backbone of a perfectly balanced salad.

Shredded chicken: Provides tender protein, the hearty base of the salad.
Sun dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped: Adds a tangy sweetness and vibrant color that wakes up the palate.
Celery stalks, diced: Introduces a fresh crunch for textural contrast.
Red onion, finely diced: Lends a sharp, slightly spicy bite to balance richness.
Plain Greek yogurt: Brings creaminess and a subtle tang, keeping the dressing light and bright.
Mayonnaise: Adds richness and smooth consistency to the dressing.
Fresh basil, chopped: Infuses herbal freshness and an aromatic zest.
Garlic, minced: Adds savory depth and a gentle kick.
Lemon juice: Provides a citrusy brightness that lifts the entire dish.
Salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering.
Black pepper: Adds subtle heat and complexity.

How to Make Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Salad Base

Start by combining the shredded chicken, chopped sun dried tomatoes, diced celery, and finely diced red onion in a large bowl. This mixture forms the colorful, flavorful foundation of your salad with plenty of textures playing nicely together. Setting this aside while you prepare the dressing lets the ingredients mingle and get ready for that next step.

Step 2: Whip Up the Citrus Basil Dressing

In a smaller bowl, mix together the plain Greek yogurt and mayonnaise, then stir in chopped fresh basil, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. This dressing is the heart of the dish, bringing a creamy brightness and herbal zing that perfectly complements the savory chicken and tangy sun dried tomatoes.

Step 3: Toss Everything Together

Pour your citrus basil dressing over the prepared chicken and vegetable mixture. Gently toss until every piece is beautifully coated and the flavors meld together into a harmonious, delicious salad. This is the moment everything comes together and you get to see those vibrant colors and smell the fresh herbs.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

You can enjoy this Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Salad Recipe immediately—either on its own, spooned over crisp crackers, or as a filling for a hearty sandwich. Each option is a winner, showcasing this salad’s incredible versatility and fresh, crave-worthy taste.

How to Serve Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Salad Recipe

The image shows a sandwich stacked in two thick layers on a dark gray plate with some orange chips around it. The sandwich has three slices of toasted light golden brown bread, with a soft and slightly porous texture. Between each slice, there is a creamy, chunky spread mixed with red sun-dried tomato pieces and herbs, giving a mix of light pink, red, and green colors. There is also a smooth, white slice of cheese in each layer above the spread. At the bottom layer, fresh green lettuce is visible under the spread. The background has a white marbled texture and the photo looks bright and clear. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle some freshly chopped basil or a few whole sun dried tomatoes on top before serving to add a pop of color and a fresh herbal note. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil also elevates the salad with a glossy finish and even more richness.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or crusty artisan bread. The variety of textures and flavors makes it a perfect centerpiece for a light, balanced meal that satisfies without weighing you down.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming twist, serve the Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Salad Recipe inside hollowed-out tomatoes or whole avocado halves. You can also spoon it into a pita pocket or wrap it in lettuce leaves for a fresh, low-carb option that feels elegant and fun.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover salad in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh and tasty for up to three days, allowing the flavors to deepen even more. Just give it a gentle stir before serving to re-mix the dressing and ingredients.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh, as freezing can change the texture of the yogurt and mayonnaise dressing. For optimal taste, avoid freezing and instead plan to consume leftovers within a few days.

Reheating

Because this salad is served cold or at room temperature, reheating is not recommended. However, if you’d like to experiment, try serving the chicken component warm while keeping the dressing chilled for a delightful contrast.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds great flavor and saves time, making this Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Salad Recipe even easier to prepare on busy days.

Are sun dried tomatoes always packed in oil?

Not necessarily. You can find both dry-pack and oil-packed varieties, but for this salad, oil-packed sun dried tomatoes drained and chopped work best to maintain moisture and enhance flavor.

Can I substitute mayonnaise with something else?

Yes, you can swap mayonnaise with extra Greek yogurt or a lighter mayo alternative for a tangier, lower-fat dressing that still delivers on creaminess and taste.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! The Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Salad Recipe holds up well in the fridge for a few days, making it perfect for preparing lunches or quick dinners ahead of time.

Can I make this salad vegan?

To make a vegan version, use shredded plant-based chicken alternatives, vegan mayonnaise, and yogurt substitutes. The sun dried tomatoes and fresh veggies provide plenty of flavor to keep it delicious.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about this Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Salad Recipe—it’s bright, creamy, and packed with flavor, yet simple enough to whip up any day of the week. Whether you’re packing lunches, hosting a casual get-together, or just craving something fresh and filling, this salad never disappoints. Give it a try and watch it quickly climb to the top of your recipe favorites!

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Emma

Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Salad Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need