Savory Apricot Chicken Salad
This Savory Apricot Chicken Salad offers a delightful twist on a classic, blending tender shredded chicken with the sweet chewiness of dried apricots, crisp celery, and a tangy Greek yogurt dressing for an easy, satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner, it's packed with flavor and texture.
For 4 servings
If not already shredded, prepare the cooked chicken breast by shredding it into bite-sized pieces. Ensure the chicken is cooled completely.
Finely chop the dried apricots, dice the celery, and mince the red onion. Roughly chop the fresh parsley.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped apricots, diced celery, minced red onion, and chopped fresh parsley.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the plain Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, salt, and freshly ground black pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
Pour the prepared dressing over the chicken mixture. Gently fold all ingredients together using a spatula until everything is evenly coated.
If using, gently fold in the toasted slivered almonds for added crunch and flavor.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and deepen. This also ensures the salad is served refreshingly cold.
Serve chilled in whole-wheat wraps, crisp lettuce cups, on crackers, or as a delicious sandwich filling.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using a store-bought rotisserie chicken. Simply remove the skin and bones, then shred the meat for quick preparation.
- 2Chill for Best Flavor: While delicious immediately, chilling the salad for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld and deepen, enhancing the overall taste and texture.
- 3Adjust Sweetness/Tang: Taste the dressing before combining it with the chicken. If you prefer more sweetness, add a tiny drizzle of honey; for more tang, add a bit more lemon juice.
- 4Toasting Nuts: If adding nuts, lightly toast them in a dry pan over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant. This significantly enhances their flavor and crunch.
Adapt it for your goals.
Fruit Swap
Substitute dried cranberries, cherries, or diced fresh apple for the apricots to vary the sweetness and tartness.
Nut/Seed AdditionNut/Seed Addition
Instead of almonds, try toasted pecans, walnuts, or sunflower seeds for a different crunch and flavor profile.
Herb & Spice BoostHerb & Spice Boost
Incorporate fresh dill, chives, or a pinch of mild curry powder into the dressing for an aromatic twist.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High in Protein
Chicken breast and Greek yogurt provide a substantial amount of lean protein, essential for muscle repair, satiety, and overall body function.
Rich in Fiber
Dried apricots and celery contribute dietary fiber, aiding in digestive health and helping to regulate blood sugar levels.
Vitamins and Minerals
This salad offers various vitamins and minerals from its fresh ingredients, including Vitamin A from apricots and Vitamin K from celery, supporting immune function and bone health.
Frequently asked questions
When stored in an airtight container, this chicken salad will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. It's best enjoyed within the first 2-3 days for optimal flavor and texture.
