Crunchy Spicy Chicken Salad Recipe
Introduction
This Crunchy Spicy Chicken Salad is a flavorful and satisfying dish perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner. Packed with tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a zesty chipotle kick, it’s easy to prepare and versatile to serve.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken (chopped, see notes)
- 1/2 bell pepper (seeds removed and finely diced; use red, orange, or yellow)
- 1 celery stalk (thinly sliced)
- 2 scallions (diced)
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds (toasted)
- 3-4 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (from 1/2 lemon)
- 2-3 teaspoons TABASCO Chipotle Pepper Sauce (or your preferred hot sauce, use more or less, to taste)
- Salt and pepper (to taste, optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped cooked chicken, diced bell pepper, sliced celery, diced scallions, toasted slivered almonds, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and chipotle pepper sauce. Mix well to evenly coat all ingredients.
- Step 2: Season with salt and pepper if desired, then serve immediately or chill in the fridge until ready to serve. Enjoy with tortilla chips, crackers, or use as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.
Tips & Variations
- Use rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken to save time.
- Swap slivered almonds for chopped pecans or walnuts for a different crunch.
- Adjust the amount of chipotle sauce to control the heat level.
- For a lighter option, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
Storage
Store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir gently before serving. This chicken salad can be eaten cold or at room temperature but avoid leaving it out for long periods to keep it fresh.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use raw chicken for this salad?
No, the chicken should be cooked before chopping and adding to the salad. Using cooked chicken ensures safety and the best texture.
What can I serve with crunchy spicy chicken salad?
This salad pairs well with tortilla chips, crackers, fresh bread, or wrapped in a tortilla for a simple sandwich. It also works as a topping for greens or inside pita pockets.
PrintCrunchy Spicy Chicken Salad Recipe
A vibrant and flavorful Crunchy Spicy Chicken Salad combining tender cooked chicken with crisp vegetables, toasted almonds, and a zesty chipotle-mayonnaise dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner, this salad offers a delightful balance of textures and a spicy kick that can be tailored to your heat preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Chicken Salad
- 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped
- 1/2 bell pepper, seeds removed and finely diced (red, orange, or yellow)
- 1 celery stalk, thinly sliced
- 2 scallions, diced
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds, toasted
Dressing
- 3–4 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (from 1/2 lemon)
- 2–3 teaspoons TABASCO Chipotle Pepper Sauce, or preferred hot sauce, to taste
- Salt and pepper, to taste (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, add the chopped cooked chicken, diced bell pepper, sliced celery, diced scallions, and toasted slivered almonds. This step ensures all flavor and textures are evenly mixed.
- Make Dressing and Mix: Add the mayonnaise, lemon juice, and chipotle pepper sauce to the bowl. Stir thoroughly to coat all ingredients with the creamy, spicy dressing. Taste and season with salt and pepper as desired.
- Serve or Chill: Serve the salad immediately for a fresh and crunchy texture, or chill it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. This salad pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips, crackers or can be served in a sandwich or wrap.
Notes
- Use any cooked chicken—rotisserie, grilled, or leftover—chopped into bite-size pieces.
- To toast almonds, place in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until golden and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce to control the spiciness level.
- For a lighter option, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a low-fat alternative.
- Serve as a filling for sandwiches or wraps, or enjoy as a standalone salad with chips or crackers.
Keywords: spicy chicken salad, crunchy chicken salad, chipotle chicken salad, quick chicken salad, easy chicken salad
