Hummus Chicken Salad

Hummus Chicken Salad

When I first tried Hummus Chicken Salad, I was amazed at how a simple meal could be so satisfying! I was hosting a casual gathering, and I wanted something refreshing yet hearty. As I mixed the tender pieces of chicken with crisp green and red apples, I could already tell this dish would be a hit. The warm aroma of hummus combined with the sweetness of dried cranberries created an inviting atmosphere in my kitchen. Guests started to gather around, intrigued by the colorful ingredients, and soon, everyone was asking for the recipe. It’s easy to see why this dish has become a staple in my home—it’s quick, vibrant, and packed with flavor!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
15 mins
Prep Time:
15 mins
Cook Time:
0 mins
Difficulty:
Medium
Calories:
350 kcal
Protein:
30 g
Diet:
Paleo, Whole30, Gluten-Free
Fat:
15 g
Tools Used:
Wooden Spoon, Cutting Board, Whisk, Mixing Bowl

Why You Need This Hummus Chicken Salad

Easy to Prepare

One of the first reasons I love Hummus Chicken Salad is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip this dish up in no time. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. You don’t need to be a master chef to make it—just follow a few easy steps, and you’re good to go!

Flavor Explosion

This salad is not just easy; it’s packed with flavor. The combination of hummus, Dijon mustard, and a hint of honey creates a creamy dressing that complements the chicken beautifully. Each bite bursts with sweetness from the apples and a touch of tartness from the cranberries. It’s a delightful balance of tastes that will keep you coming back for more.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Hummus Chicken Salad is incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving it at a summer picnic, a cozy dinner party, or as a meal prep option for the week, it fits right in. It can be served on its own, as a filling for wraps, or on a bed of greens. The possibilities are endless!

Healthy and Nutritious

This salad is not only delicious but also nutritious. Packed with protein from the chicken and fiber from the apples and cranberries, it’s a well-rounded meal. Plus, using hummus instead of traditional dressings means fewer calories without sacrificing flavor!

Great for Leftovers

One of my favorite aspects of Hummus Chicken Salad is how well it stores. You can make a big batch and keep it in the fridge for up to four days. It’s ready to go when you need a quick lunch or dinner, making meal planning a breeze. Just grab a scoop, and you’re set!

A Crowd-Pleaser

This dish is sure to impress your friends and family. The vibrant colors and delicious flavors make it visually appealing as well as tasty. I can’t tell you how many compliments I’ve received for this recipe, and it’s so simple to prepare. You’ll be the star of any gathering!

Key Ingredients for Hummus Chicken Salad

Hummus Chicken Salad

When it comes to creating the perfect Hummus Chicken Salad, the ingredients matter. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that delightful balance of flavors and textures. The star here is the shredded rotisserie chicken, which makes it not only convenient but also adds a savory depth. Pair it with the crispness of green and red apples for sweetness, and you have a winning combination. Let’s dive into the key players!

  • 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken: This is the backbone of the salad, providing protein and flavor.
  • ½ cup small diced green apple: Adds a refreshing crunch and sweetness.
  • ½ cup small diced red apple: Offers color and a slightly different flavor profile.
  • ¼ cup dried cranberries: These lend a tart sweetness that balances the salad beautifully.
  • ½ cup hummus: Acts as a creamy dressing packed with flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds a zesty kick to the dressing.
  • 1 tablespoon honey: Provides a touch of sweetness that complements the apples.
  • 2 teaspoons lemon juice: Brightens up the flavors and adds acidity.
  • 1 tablespoon minced rosemary: Imparts a fragrant, earthy note.
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper, to taste: Enhances the overall flavor with a hint of spice.
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt, to taste: Balances and amplifies the other flavors.

Step by Step Instructions for Hummus Chicken Salad

Hummus Chicken Salad

Making Hummus Chicken Salad is a breeze, and I’m excited to walk you through the process. The steps are straightforward, and you’ll see how quickly you can put this dish together. Let’s get started!

  1. Begin by gathering all your ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded rotisserie chicken, small diced green apple, small diced red apple, and dried cranberries. Toss them gently to combine, allowing the flavors to mix.
  2. Next, prepare the dressing. In a separate small mixing bowl, whisk together the hummus, Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, minced rosemary, black pepper, and kosher salt. Whisk until smooth and well combined, ensuring there are no lumps.
  3. Now, pour the creamy hummus mixture over the chicken and apple mixture. Use a spatula to carefully fold the dressing into the salad. Make sure every piece is coated with that delicious dressing.
  4. Once combined, taste the salad. Adjust the seasoning with more kosher salt or black pepper if desired. This is your opportunity to make it just right!
  5. Transfer the salad to a serving dish or keep it in the mixing bowl for a more casual serving style. Either way, it’s looking great!
  6. For the best flavor, I recommend letting the salad sit in the refrigerator for about 10 to 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
  7. When ready to serve, you can enjoy the Hummus Chicken Salad right away, or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep!
  8. As you serve the salad, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for an extra pop of color and flavor. Fresh parsley or additional minced rosemary works wonderfully.
  9. Don’t forget to savor every bite! The combination of textures and flavors will have you craving more.
  10. Enjoy your homemade Hummus Chicken Salad as a main dish, a side, or even a filling for sandwiches or wraps!

Things Worth Knowing

  • Use high-quality chicken: A good rotisserie chicken makes all the difference in flavor. Look for one that’s well-seasoned and moist.
  • Let it chill: Allowing the salad to chill for a bit enhances the flavors. It’s worth the wait!
  • Fresh ingredients matter: Opt for crisp, fresh apples. They add not just flavor but also crunch to the salad.
  • Tweak the dressing: Feel free to experiment with different hummus flavors to give the salad a unique twist!

Ways to Customize

Hummus Chicken Salad

If you’re looking to switch things up with your Hummus Chicken Salad, here are some fun customization ideas to try. It’s always exciting to tailor a recipe to your taste!

  • Add some crunch: Consider incorporating nuts like walnuts or almonds for an extra layer of texture.
  • Spice it up: If you enjoy heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the mix!
  • Vary the fruits: Experiment with different dried fruits like raisins or chopped apricots for a unique flavor profile.
  • Try different herbs: Fresh dill or cilantro can lend a whole new flavor to your salad.
  • Make it a wrap: Use large lettuce leaves or tortillas to create a nutritious wrap for a portable meal.
  • Swap the chicken: If you’re feeling adventurous, try replacing the chicken with chickpeas for a vegetarian version!

How to Enjoy Hummus Chicken Salad

There are so many great ways to enjoy your Hummus Chicken Salad. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions:

  • As a standalone meal: This salad is hearty enough to be a meal on its own. Serve it in a bowl for a quick lunch or dinner.
  • Wrap it up: Use large lettuce leaves or pita pockets to turn the salad into a delicious wrap.
  • Perfect for picnics: Hummus Chicken Salad travels well! Pack it for a picnic in the park or a day at the beach.
  • Serve with crackers: Pair the salad with whole-grain crackers or pita chips for a delightful crunch.
  • Great for parties: This dish is always a crowd-pleaser! Serve it at gatherings, and watch it disappear.
  • Meal prep friendly: Make a big batch at the start of the week, and enjoy it for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
  • Seasonal pairings: In the warmer months, serve it chilled, while in fall, a warm side of roasted vegetables pairs beautifully.

FAQ

Absolutely! Hummus Chicken Salad is perfect for meal prep. You can make it a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick stir before serving to refresh the flavors.

This salad is versatile! You can enjoy it on its own, in a sandwich, or as a wrap. Pair it with whole-grain crackers, pita chips, or a refreshing side salad for a complete meal.

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with different fruits or add-ins like nuts for crunch. You can even swap the chicken for chickpeas for a vegetarian option. The Hummus Chicken Salad is highly adaptable.

If stored properly in an airtight container, Hummus Chicken Salad can last for up to four days in the refrigerator. It’s great for leftovers and makes for a quick and easy meal anytime!

Conclusion

In summary, Hummus Chicken Salad combines convenience and deliciousness in one bowl. With its vibrant ingredients and delightful flavors, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep on hand. I encourage you to try making it for your next meal or gathering. You won’t be disappointed!

Hummus Chicken Salad

Hummus Chicken Salad

The ultimate comfort food, Hummus Chicken Salad is creamy, crunchy, and refreshing. Packed with tender chicken, crunchy apples, and sweet cranberries, it’s the perfect easy weeknight dinner. You’ll want to make this delicious dish tonight!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Wooden Spoon
  • Cutting Board
  • Whisk
  • Mixing Bowl

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
  • ½ cup small diced green apple
  • ½ cup small diced red apple
  • ¼ cup dried cranberries
  • ½ cup hummus
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 2 teaspoons lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon minced rosemary
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt to taste

Instructions
 

  • Begin by gathering all your ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded rotisserie chicken, small diced green apple, small diced red apple, and dried cranberries. Toss them gently to combine, allowing the flavors to mix.
  • Next, prepare the dressing. In a separate small mixing bowl, whisk together the hummus, Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, minced rosemary, black pepper, and kosher salt. Whisk until smooth and well combined, ensuring there are no lumps.
  • Now, pour the creamy hummus mixture over the chicken and apple mixture. Use a spatula to carefully fold the dressing into the salad. Make sure every piece is coated with that delicious dressing.
  • Once combined, taste the salad. Adjust the seasoning with more kosher salt or black pepper if desired. This is your opportunity to make it just right!
  • Transfer the salad to a serving dish or keep it in the mixing bowl for a more casual serving style. Either way, it’s looking great!
  • For the best flavor, I recommend letting the salad sit in the refrigerator for about 10 to 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
  • When ready to serve, you can enjoy the Hummus Chicken Salad right away, or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep!
  • As you serve the salad, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for an extra pop of color and flavor. Fresh parsley or additional minced rosemary works wonderfully.
  • Don’t forget to savor every bite! The combination of textures and flavors will have you craving more.
  • Enjoy your homemade Hummus Chicken Salad as a main dish, a side, or even a filling for sandwiches or wraps!

Notes

  • Use high-quality chicken: A good rotisserie chicken makes all the difference in flavor. Look for one that’s well-seasoned and moist.
  • Let it chill: Allowing the salad to chill for a bit enhances the flavors. It’s worth the wait!
  • Fresh ingredients matter: Opt for crisp, fresh apples. They add not just flavor but also crunch to the salad.
  • Tweak the dressing: Feel free to experiment with different hummus flavors to give the salad a unique twist!
Keyword Easy Dinner Ideas, healthy chicken salad, Hummus Chicken Salad, Quick Chicken Recipes

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