If you're on the hunt for a vibrant and satisfying dish that combines the savory goodness of chicken with the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes and the delightful crunch of peanuts, look no further! This Chicken Sun Blush Tomato Peanut Salad is not just a meal; it's a flavor-packed experience that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Perfect for a light lunch, a picnic, or even as a refreshing appetizer, this recipe is quick and easy to whip up in just 25 minutes. Ready to impress your family and friends with a dish that's as delicious as it is simple? Let’s dive into the recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1/4 cup peanuts, chopped
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and cooled to room temperature. If using leftover chicken, shred or dice into bite-sized pieces approximately 1/2 inch cubes.
- Chop the sun-dried tomatoes into small, uniform pieces to distribute evenly throughout the salad.
- Roughly chop the peanuts, keeping some larger pieces for added texture and crunch.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and chopped peanuts.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and fresh lemon juice until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the mayonnaise-lemon dressing over the chicken mixture and gently fold until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Cover the salad and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, give the salad a quick stir and taste again for seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired.
- Serve chilled, optionally on a bed of mixed greens or with crackers as a light lunch or appetizer.
Tips
- Use Leftover Chicken: For a time-saving hack, use leftover rotisserie chicken. Just shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces for a quick start.
- Customize the Crunch: Feel free to swap out peanuts for your favorite nuts or seeds, like almonds or sunflower seeds, for a different texture and flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil can elevate the dish with a burst of freshness.
- Chill for Flavor: Allowing the salad to chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes helps the flavors meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
- Serve Creatively: Try serving the salad on a bed of mixed greens or in lettuce wraps for a fun and healthy twist.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 85mg