Growing up, my mom made the best chicken salads, and they were a staple in our household. As I got older and had to adapt my diet due to allergies, I knew I had to give this classic dish a twist to make it gluten and dairy free. Today, I’m excited to share my version of this beloved recipe, using my favorite vegan mayo. This salad is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer picnic, a light lunch, or a healthy dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Salad
This chicken salad is not only delicious but also packed with fresh, crunchy vegetables and juicy, flavorful chicken. It’s creamy without any dairy, thanks to vegan mayo and sour cream, making it a healthier alternative that doesn’t compromise on taste. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on your preferences and what you have on hand.
Ingredients
- - 3 lb organic chicken breast
- - 2 diced bell peppers
- - 1 small diced onion
- - Jalapeños and juice to taste
- - 2 apples diced
- - Chopped lettuce
- - Salt and pepper to taste
- - Vegan mayo to taste
- - Vegan sour cream to taste
- - 1 cucumber diced
- - Corn optional
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken:Start by boiling the chicken breasts in a large pot of water until they are fully cooked, which should take about 15-20 minutes. Once cooked, let the chicken cool before shredding it into bite-sized pieces.
- Prepare the Vegetables: While the chicken is cooking, dice the bell peppers, onion, apples, and cucumber. If you like a bit of heat, add jalapeños and a splash of their juice to the mix.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced vegetables, apples, and chopped lettuce. If you’re including corn, add it now.
- Add the Dressing: Add vegan mayo and vegan sour cream to the bowl. The amount you use depends on how creamy you like your chicken salad. Start with a couple of spoonfuls of each and mix thoroughly, adding more as needed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill and Serve: For the best flavor, let the chicken salad chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Notes