Why You’ll Love Spicy Chicken Salad Recipe
This recipe comes together in about 15 minutes with no cooking required if you already have cooked chicken. It has a creamy texture without feeling too heavy, a nice kick from sriracha, fresh flavor from herbs, and plenty of crunch from red bell pepper and scallions.
It’s also great for meal prep, easy to customize, and perfect for using leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 1/2 cups finely chopped cooked chicken breast
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup finely chopped scallions, plus more for topping
- 1 small red bell pepper, chopped
- 3 tablespoons plain nonfat Greek yogurt
- 2 to 3 tablespoons mayo
- 2 tablespoons sriracha
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Juice from 1/2 lime
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
Add the chopped chicken, cilantro, parsley, scallions, red bell pepper, Greek yogurt, mayo, sriracha, honey, lime juice, salt, and pepper to a medium bowl.
Stir until everything is well combined and evenly coated.
Taste and adjust with extra salt, pepper, lime juice, mayo, or sriracha if needed.
Serve in a sandwich, wrap, lettuce cup, or with crackers, pita chips, or pretzels.
Servings and timing
Servings: 2
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 0 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Variations
For a dairy-free version, use all mayo or a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
For less heat, reduce the sriracha or leave it out.
For extra spice, add more sriracha or a pinch of cayenne.
For more crunch, add finely chopped celery, cucumber, or extra bell pepper.
For a different protein, use canned tuna or mashed chickpeas instead of chicken.
Storage/Reheating
Store the chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days.
This recipe is best served cold, so reheating is not needed. Stir before serving, especially if it has been sitting in the fridge.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works very well and makes the recipe even faster.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it’s a great make-ahead lunch and keeps well in the fridge.
Is this chicken salad spicy?
It has a noticeable kick, but you can easily reduce the sriracha for a milder version.
Can I make it without mayo?
Yes, you can use more Greek yogurt instead of mayo.
Can I make it without Greek yogurt?
Yes, use mayo only, or try a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
What can I serve with spicy chicken salad?
Serve it with crackers, pita chips, bread, wraps, lettuce cups, or over greens.
Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, drained canned chicken can work in a pinch.
Can I use canned tuna instead?
Yes, tuna is a good substitute for the chicken.
How long does it last in the fridge?
It should last about 3 to 5 days when stored properly.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply double all ingredients and store leftovers in the refrigerator.
Conclusion
Spicy chicken salad is a quick, flavorful, protein-packed recipe that’s perfect for easy lunches and meal prep. With creamy dressing, fresh herbs, crunchy vegetables, and a little heat, it’s simple to make and easy to enjoy in many different ways.
