Zesty Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Salad

Posted on February 11, 2026

Easy Zesty Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Salad Recipe

Ah, the joys and occasional chaos of weeknight dinners! I’ll never forget the time I ambitiously decided to try out a new recipe during a particularly hectic week. Picture this: the sun was setting, my kids were buzzing with energy, the dog was barking for his evening walk, and my stove? Well, it was sporting a few splatters from an earlier culinary mishap. I was determined to create something healthy yet tantalizing, something that would make my family gather at the table and not just shuffle in, grab a bite, and disappear like food ninjas. That’s when I stumbled upon this Zesty Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Salad recipe.

This isn’t just a meal; it’s a memory in the making! To be real, my first attempt wasn’t a Pinterest-perfect success—I accidentally left the sun-dried tomatoes out (oops!), and the flavors came out a bit bland. But after a recalibration (yes, that’s a fancy term for cooking fail), I got it right, and let me tell you, it’s been a beloved staple ever since! Every time I make this chicken salad, the air fills with the zest of lemon, the rich aroma of sun-dried tomatoes, and a whisper of fresh basil wafting from the kitchen. Honestly, it’s like a cozy, comforting hug… only edible!

What makes this dish so special to me? It’s incredibly versatile—it can be a meal in itself, a sandwich filler, or even a delightful pita-stuffing. Plus, it checks all the boxes for healthy comfort food while being a budget-friendly recipe that truly satisfies. Whether it’s a rushed weeknight or a lazy Sunday afternoon, this chicken salad has got you covered.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes less than 30 minutes, making it an absolute win for easy weeknight dinners.
Healthy yet Satisfying: Packed with protein from chicken and healthy fats from the dressing, it fits beautifully into those high protein meal plans.
Budget-Friendly: With ingredients commonly found in your pantry or fridge, you won’t break the bank making this dish. It’s a perfect option for those cheap meal plans for 2.
Leftovers Galore: It keeps well in the fridge, making it an excellent choice for meal prep—perfect for anyone looking for meal prep microwave lunches.
Picky-Eater Approved: Even my most selective child gobbles this up! I mean, sun-dried tomatoes seem fancy, but they really elevate the dish without being too "out there."
Comfort in a Bowl: Seriously! This salad feels like a warm embrace on a chilly night. It’s filling, fresh, and just downright delicious.

What Makes This Recipe Special?

There’s something magical about the combination of flavors in this Zesty Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Salad. The sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes marries perfectly with the tangy kick of lemon juice, while the creaminess of mayonnaise and Greek yogurt ties everything together. I love adding fresh basil because it brightens the dish and adds a delightful fragrance. It reminds me of summer days; you know, those endless sunshine-filled afternoons spent in grandma’s garden?

And let’s not forget how forgiving this recipe is. Forget an ingredient? No problem! Each time I whip it up, I find that improvisation isn’t just welcome; it’s encouraged! That’s the beauty of home cooking—it evolves, and every family makes it their own. Feel free to toss in some chopped nuts for crunch or any leftover veggies you have lurking in your fridge.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: I like using rotisserie chicken to save time—just shred that juicy goodness and we’re halfway there!
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: These beauties bring a burst of flavor and a lovely hint of sweetness. Opt for oil-packed for extra richness, or dry if you’re watching calories.
1/2 cup celery, diced: For that delightful crunch! Celery adds not just crunch but also a fresh and slightly peppery note to balance the richness of the dressing.
1/2 cup bell pepper, diced: Choose your favorite color! I usually go for red or yellow; they add a pop of color and sweetness.
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped: Honestly, the flavor punch here is significant! Just be careful not to overpower the other flavors.
1/2 cup mayonnaise: This creamy base is essential. For a lighter version, use a mix of mayonnaise and Greek yogurt.
2 tablespoons Greek yogurt: Lighter and healthier than sour cream while still giving a creamy texture—plus, it adds a slight tang!
1 tablespoon lemon juice: Fresh is always best! This will brighten up your salad and really amplify the flavor profile.
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped: Fresh herbs make a world of difference! They add brightness and a lovely aroma.
Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t skip this bad boy! It enhances the flavors beautifully.

Pro Tip: If you find whole sun-dried tomatoes too chewy, try chopping them finely or soaking them in warm water for about 10 minutes before adding—they’ll soften up beautifully.

How to Make It Step-by-Step

Gather Your Ingredients: First, let’s make sure you have everything you need! I always lay out my ingredients like I’m preparing for a cooking show (minus the fancy camera crew). It makes things less chaotic—except for, you know, the usual kitchen clutter laying about.
Cook the Chicken: If you’re not using pre-cooked chicken, now’s the time to whip up some! You can poach, grill, or sauté it. Shred it once it’s cool enough to handle; I like to make a whole bunch on meal prep Sundays. Who doesn’t love having protein-stuffed options? Just be careful not to overcook it—I’m guilty of having dry chicken attempts because I left it on the stove way too long. Don’t do that!
Combine the Greens: In a large bowl, toss together the shredded chicken, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, diced celery, bell pepper, and red onion. The colors! The textures! I could just stop here and snack on it raw, but we have more flavor to add.
Mix the Dressing: In another bowl, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and chopped basil. Stir until smooth; you’ll want to taste this mixture! Adjust the salt and pepper as needed. I always find myself inching closer to the bowl with a few scoops straight from the spoon—I know, I know. Somehow, I manage to not eat it all before assembling the salad!
Combine Everything: Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture. Gently fold it all together until the chicken is fully coated. This is where the magic happens—the melding of flavors as all those fresh ingredients come together! You can’t help but take a peek at it each time you pass by. I mean, can you blame me? It’s beautiful.
Taste Test: Before serving, taste that glorious bowl and see if it needs more salt, pepper, or even an extra squeeze of lemon juice. Sometimes I add a little more basil if I feel fancy!
Serve: You can dish it out as is, or get creative with it. I love loading it onto toasted bread for sandwiches, stuffing it into pita pockets, or serving it with crispy crackers.
Enjoy: Sit down, relax, and savor. Grab that rom-com movie you’ve been meaning to watch and indulge in this savory goodness. It’s like bringing the essence of casual elegance to your dining table.

Tips for Best Results

Chicken Variations: Why not shake things up with leftovers from roasted chicken? Or even turkey? These proteins work wonders here.
Herb Substitutes: If basil isn’t your thing, try dill or parsley—both impart a unique taste!
Creamy Alternatives: Not a mayo fan? Use avocado for a creamy base instead—it’s a great keto meal plan option!

Ingredient Substitutions & Variations

Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for chickpeas or shredded jackfruit. They soak up flavor beautifully and make a healthy comfort food that everyone can enjoy.
Nutty Twist: Throw in some chopped walnuts or almonds for an unexpected crunch.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or a splash of hot sauce if you’re feeling adventurous. I once added too much and almost set my mouth on fire! Luckily, some yogurt eased the pain.

Directions

In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, celery, bell pepper, and red onion.
In a separate bowl, mix together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and fresh basil until smooth.
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until well combined.
Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve the chicken salad as a sandwich, stuffed in pita bread, or with your favorite crackers.

Pairing Ideas (Drinks, Sides, etc.)

If you’re thinking about drink pairings, a chilled glass of white wine (or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing touch) complements the zest beautifully! For sides, crispy lettuce leaves or a light green salad work well. And who could resist crispy sweet potato fries on the side?

Honestly, this dish and a rom-com are perfection—whether it’s a solo movie night or an evening gathering with friends.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Leftovers? Yes, please! Store any uneaten chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last about 3-4 days, but trust me, it rarely lasts that long in our house!

When it comes to reheating, you can certainly enjoy it cold or allow it to come to room temperature before diving in. Just be sure not to heat it up in the microwave—who wants to ruin that creamy goodness?

Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips

This salad is perfect for meal prepping. Combine the chicken and vegetables a few days in advance and store the dressing separately to keep everything fresh. Toss it all together just before serving. If you want to freeze it, I recommend skipping the mayo and Greek yogurt until you’re ready to serve to prevent a funky texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking Chicken: Seriously, don’t do it!
Skipping Seasoning: Salt and pepper are your friends. Without them, your beautiful salad may end up tasting a bit flat.
Overloading the Dressing: While it seems tempting to drown everything in mayo, it’s important to find the right balance for flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! It’s a fantastic shortcut and adds amazing flavor.

2. Can I make this dairy-free?
Sure! Substitute dairy-based items with their vegan counterparts—just be mindful of the flavors.

3. How can I get my kids to eat this?
Try making it fun! Build chicken salad sandwiches together—let them add toppings. They might just get excited!

Cooking Tools You’ll Need

Large mixing bowl
Separate small mixing bowl
Sharp chef’s knife (for chopping)
Cutting board
Storage containers for leftovers

Final Thoughts

This Zesty Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Salad is more than just a delicious dish; it’s become part of my family’s culinary repertoire and a symbol of those cozy nights spent laughing and sharing stories around the table. I love how it’s adaptable, how it works its magic for any occasion, and how it somehow always tastes better when shared with loved ones.

I hope you find a place for this recipe in your home too. If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to save it on Pinterest or share it with a friend! Happy cooking!