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–+ servings

Honey Hot Chicken Salad

This Honey Hot Chicken Salad combines sweet, spicy, crunchy, and juicy elements, making it a delicious choice for sandwiches, picnics, or light dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Serving Size 4 servings

Ingredients

For the salad

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or poached)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise Use full-fat for creaminess; Greek yogurt swap available
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon hot sauce Adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup slivered almonds, toasted Use chopped pecans or walnuts for an alternative
  • 1/2 cup seedless grapes, halved Red or green grapes are both suitable
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Lettuce leaves for serving

Instructions

Preparation

  • In a large bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon hot sauce, and 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard until smooth. This is your dressing.
  • Add 2 cups shredded cooked chicken and toss so the chicken is evenly coated.
  • Fold in 1/2 cup chopped celery, 1/4 cup chopped red onion, 1/2 cup toasted slivered almonds, and 1/2 cup halved grapes. Mix gently to keep the grapes intact.
  • Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Adjust honey or hot sauce if needed.
  • Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes so the flavors marry.
  • Serve on lettuce leaves, in sandwich bread, or spoon into croissant rolls for a decadent lunch.

Notes

Swap mayonnaise for plain Greek yogurt (half mayo, half yogurt) to reduce fat and add tang. For milder heat, start with 1/2 tablespoon hot sauce and increase after mixing.