Hummus Chicken Salad
If you’re on the hunt for a delicious, healthy, and versatile dish that can be whipped up in no time, look no further than this Hummus Chicken Salad. Packed with protein from shredded rotisserie chicken, a burst of flavor from apples and cranberries, and the creamy goodness of hummus, this salad is a perfect blend of textures and tastes. Whether you’re planning a picnic, a quick lunch, or a light dinner, this recipe has got you covered.
Why This Hummus Chicken Salad Stands Out
This Hummus Chicken Salad is not your average chicken salad. The use of hummus instead of mayonnaise not only makes it creamier but also adds a depth of flavor that is both rich and satisfying. The combination of green and red apples brings a refreshing crunch, while the dried cranberries introduce a delightful sweetness. Plus, the Dijon mustard and honey provide a subtle zing that elevates the entire dish. This salad is not only nutritious but also offers a colorful presentation that is sure to impress.
Ingredient Checklist
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1 cup small diced green apple
- 1 cup small diced red apple
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup hummus
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon minced rosemary
- ½ teaspoon black pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt, to taste
Gear Up: What to Grab
- Mixing Bowl: A large bowl for mixing all ingredients together.
- Cutting Board: For dicing the apples and any other prep work.
- Knife: A sharp knife for easy chopping.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
- Serving Spoon: For serving the salad.
Hummus Chicken Salad, Made Easy
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Shred the rotisserie chicken if you haven’t done so already. Dice the green and red apples into small pieces, ensuring they are bite-sized for easy mixing and eating.
Step 2: Mix the Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded rotisserie chicken, diced green and red apples, and dried cranberries. This trio is the heart of your Hummus Chicken Salad and sets the stage for all the incredible flavors.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together the hummus, Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, minced rosemary, black pepper, and kosher salt. This creamy dressing will bind everything together and infuse the salad with flavor.
Step 4: Combine
Pour the dressing over the chicken and apple mixture. Gently toss everything together until the chicken and apples are well coated in the hummus dressing. Be careful not to mash the apples; you want to keep that delightful crunch.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve the salad on a bed of greens, in a wrap, or on its own!
Season-by-Season Upgrades
- Spring: Add in some fresh peas or diced cucumbers for a vibrant touch.
- Summer: Toss in some diced strawberries or blueberries for a fruity twist.
- Fall: Incorporate roasted sweet potatoes or pecans for a heartier option.
- Winter: Add shredded carrots or walnuts for extra texture and flavor.
Cook’s Notes
- This Hummus Chicken Salad is extremely versatile. Feel free to swap out the fruits or add in your favorites!
- For a vegan version, substitute the chicken with chickpeas and use a plant-based hummus.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preference. More mustard for kick or more honey for sweetness!
- This salad stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a great meal prep option.
Leftovers & Meal Prep
Leftovers of this Hummus Chicken Salad are just as delicious! Store any uneaten salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day. For meal prep, consider portioning the salad into individual containers for a grab-and-go lunch throughout the week. Pair it with whole grain crackers or pita for a complete meal.
Your Questions, Answered
Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! You can cook chicken breasts or thighs, shred them, and use them in place of rotisserie chicken. Just season them well for added flavor.
What can I use instead of hummus?
If you don’t have hummus, you can use Greek yogurt for a lighter option, or even a creamy avocado dressing for a different flavor profile.
How long can I store the Hummus Chicken Salad?
The salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Yes, this Hummus Chicken Salad is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Just double-check the ingredients of your hummus to ensure there are no gluten-containing additives.
Weekend Projects
- Homemade Hummus Recipe – Try making your own hummus for a fresher taste!
- Fresh Spring Rolls – Use leftover salad to fill fresh spring rolls for a fun twist.
- Vegan Chickpea Salad Sandwich – A different take on salads that’s also delicious!
- Easy Skillet Chicken – A great way to prepare chicken for your next salad!
In Closing
With its vibrant colors and an array of textures, this Hummus Chicken Salad is bound to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it’s also packed with nutrients and flavor. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just yourself, this salad is sure to please. Enjoy every bite and feel good about the wholesome ingredients you’re nourishing your body with!
Hummus Chicken Salad
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by gathering all your ingredients. Shred the rotisserie chicken if you haven't done so already. Dice the green and red apples into small pieces, ensuring they are bite-sized for easy mixing and eating.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded rotisserie chicken, diced green and red apples, and dried cranberries. This trio is the heart of your Hummus Chicken Salad and sets the stage for all the incredible flavors.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the hummus, Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, minced rosemary, black pepper, and kosher salt. This creamy dressing will bind everything together and infuse the salad with flavor.
- Pour the dressing over the chicken and apple mixture. Gently toss everything together until the chicken and apples are well coated in the hummus dressing. Be careful not to mash the apples; you want to keep that delightful crunch.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve the salad on a bed of greens, in a wrap, or on its own!
Notes
- Feel free to swap out the fruits or add in your favorites for a personal touch!
- For a vegan version, substitute the chicken with chickpeas and use a plant-based hummus.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preference for the perfect balance.
- This salad stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days, great for meal prep!
