SALADS

Amazing Sun Dried Tomato Chicken: 15-Minute Meal

by basmer

21 de October de 2025

Facebook

Jump to Recipe

Sun dried tomato chicken has been my go-to for a quick and flavorful meal ever since I stumbled upon this incredible recipe. It’s amazing how just a few simple ingredients can create such a vibrant dish! I remember the first time I made it for friends; the aroma of the tangy tomatoes and savory chicken filling my kitchen had everyone asking for seconds. This isn’t just any chicken dish; it’s a burst of Mediterranean sunshine that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or even a delightful lunch. You’ll love how this chicken with sun dried tomatoes transforms a simple meal into something truly special. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Salad

This isn’t your average chicken salad, trust me! It’s bursting with flavor and so easy to whip up. Here’s why it’s become a staple in my kitchen:

Incredibly Flavorful: The sun-dried tomatoes bring a sweet, tangy punch that regular chicken salad just can’t match.
Super Quick Prep: Seriously, you can have this ready in under 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on sandwiches, stuffed into lettuce wraps, or as a simple side dish. It’s a truly versatile sun dried tomato chicken recipe.
Healthy Twist: Using Greek yogurt instead of all mayo makes it a lighter, yet still creamy, option.
Satisfying Crunch: Toasted nuts add a delightful texture that complements the tender chicken.
Crowd-Pleaser: Even picky eaters tend to love the bold yet balanced flavors of this chicken with sun dried tomatoes.
Great for Meal Prep: Whip up a batch on Sunday for easy lunches all week long.

Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Ingredients

Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to creating my favorite sun dried tomato chicken salad. It’s amazing how a few pantry staples and some fresh ingredients come together to make something so delicious and quick.

2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or chopped) – Rotisserie chicken is my secret shortcut for this easy sun dried tomato chicken!
1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (roughly chopped) – These are the stars! They bring a concentrated, sweet-tangy flavor that defines this dish.
1/4 cup red onion (finely chopped) – Adds a little bite and freshness.
1/4 cup celery (diced) – For that classic chicken salad crunch.
1/4 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version) – This forms the creamy base of our dressing.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – Adds a subtle kick and depth to the dressing.
1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped) – For a burst of herbaceous freshness that brightens everything up.
Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for balancing all those wonderful flavors.
1/4 cup toasted almonds or walnuts (for added crunch) – Nuts add a fantastic texture and nutty flavor that complements the chicken.
1/4 cup feta cheese (crumbled) – For a salty, briny tang that takes this salad to the next level.
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (for extra tang) – This is optional but really punches up the flavor profile of the sun dried tomato chicken.

How to Make Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Salad

Making this delicious sun dried tomato chicken salad is incredibly simple, and I love how quickly it comes together, especially when I need a flavorful meal in a hurry. It’s all about combining fresh ingredients with a creamy, tangy dressing.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken. If you haven’t already, cook and shred or chop your chicken. I often use leftover rotisserie chicken because it’s already perfectly cooked and seasoned, making this an even quicker sun dried tomato chicken breast recipe. Ensure the chicken is cooled before mixing.
Step 2: Chop the Produce. Take your time to finely chop the 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, 1/4 cup red onion, and 1/4 cup celery. Smaller pieces integrate better into the salad, ensuring you get a bit of everything in each bite. The aroma of the chopped sun-dried tomatoes is already so inviting!
Step 3: Mix the Dressing. In a separate, small bowl, whisk together the 1/4 cup mayonnaise (or your Greek yogurt substitute), 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, and 1 tablespoon fresh parsley. Season this creamy mixture with salt and pepper to your liking. If you’re using it, stir in the 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar now for that extra zing that complements the chicken.
Step 4: Combine Everything. Add the chopped chicken and vegetables to a mixing bowl. Pour the prepared dressing over the top. Gently toss everything together with a spoon or spatula until the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to maintain some texture in the chicken.
Step 5: Chill and Serve. For the absolute best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the sun dried tomato chicken salad for at least 30 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully. Serve chilled on your favorite bread, in lettuce cups, or alongside a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Pro Tips for the Best Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Salad

I’ve made this salad countless times, and a few tricks really elevate it from good to absolutely amazing. These tips will help you achieve that perfect flavor and texture every single time you make this chicken with sun dried tomatoes.

Quality Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Opt for oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes; they have a richer flavor and softer texture than dry ones. Drain them well but don’t rinse off all the flavorful oil.
Toast Your Nuts: Toasting almonds or walnuts for just a few minutes in a dry pan or in the oven brings out their nutty aroma and adds a delightful crunch that’s essential for this salad.
Don’t Skip the Chill Time: Seriously, letting the salad rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes is crucial. It allows the flavors to meld and deepen, transforming it into a truly gourmet chicken salad.
Balance Your Dressing: Taste your dressing before adding it to the chicken. Adjust the salt, pepper, and mustard to your liking. A touch of balsamic vinegar can really make the sun-dried tomato flavor pop.

What’s the secret to perfect Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Salad?

The secret lies in the quality of your sun-dried tomatoes and not overmixing. Using oil-packed tomatoes and gently folding everything together ensures a rich, flavorful, and texturally pleasing sun dried tomato chicken breast salad.

Can I make Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! This salad is fantastic for meal prep. You can make it up to 24 hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator, and the flavors will only get better. It’s perfect for easy lunches throughout the week. For more meal prep ideas, check out these cold lunch ideas for adults.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Salad?

A common pitfall is overmixing, which can make the chicken mushy. Another is using dry sun-dried tomatoes, which lack flavor and chew. Always use oil-packed ones and toss gently for the best texture and taste.

Best Ways to Serve Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Salad

This versatile sun dried tomato chicken salad is fantastic in so many ways! I love how it can transform a simple meal into something special. Here are a few of my favorite ways to enjoy it:

Sandwich Perfection: Pile a generous amount onto your favorite bread, croissants, or even toasted sourdough. Add some crisp lettuce and maybe a slice of provolone for a truly satisfying sandwich. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy this easy sun dried tomato chicken.
Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter option, scoop the salad into crisp lettuce cups like butter or romaine. This makes for a refreshing and low-carb meal, perfect for a light lunch or appetizer.
As a Side Dish: Serve a scoop alongside a fresh green salad, a bowl of soup, or with some crackers for a delightful and flavorful side that complements many meals. It’s a great way to add protein to your plate.

Nutrition Facts for Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Salad

This flavorful sun dried tomato chicken salad is a nutritious choice, packed with protein and healthy fats. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving:

Calories: 250
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 7g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 15g
Sodium: 300mg
Cholesterol: 45mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, such as the type of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt you choose. For more information on healthy eating, consider these 3 foods you should eat less of to stay healthy.

How to Store and Reheat Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Salad

Proper storage is key to keeping your delicious sun dried tomato chicken salad fresh and flavorful. I always make sure to follow these simple steps to enjoy it for days to come. Since this salad is no-cook, proper refrigeration is essential for food safety and taste.

Cooling First: Always let the salad cool down to room temperature before storing. Never place warm food directly into the refrigerator, as it can raise the internal temperature and spoil other foods.
Airtight Containers: Transfer the cooled salad into an airtight container. This prevents it from drying out and absorbing odors from other foods in your fridge.
Refrigeration: Your sun dried tomato chicken salad will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. Give it a good stir before serving each time.
Freezing: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze this salad for up to 3 months. However, be aware that the texture might change slightly after thawing, especially if you used mayonnaise. It’s best to thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating: This salad is typically served cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t usually necessary. If you prefer it slightly warmer, you can gently warm small portions in a microwave for a few seconds, but be cautious not to cook it.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Salad

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast for this recipe?

Yes, you absolutely can! Using sun dried tomato chicken thighs will result in a richer, more moist salad. Just make sure to cook and shred or chop them thoroughly. The flavor profile will be slightly different but equally delicious. For other chicken thigh recipes, check out this grilled honey lime chicken thighs recipe.

What kind of sun-dried tomatoes are best for this recipe?

I highly recommend using oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes. They are more tender and packed with flavor, which is perfect for this sun dried tomato chicken salad. Drain them well before chopping, but don’t discard all the oil – a little bit can add extra richness!

Is this sun dried tomato chicken recipe healthy?

It can be! By using Greek yogurt as a substitute for some or all of the mayonnaise, you significantly cut down on fat and calories, making it a much healthier option. It’s still packed with protein from the chicken, and the sun-dried tomatoes add antioxidants.

How do I make this sun dried tomato chicken recipe dairy-free?

To make this dairy-free, simply swap the mayonnaise for a dairy-free alternative like avocado-based mayo and omit the feta cheese. Ensure your Greek yogurt (if using) is also dairy-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally dairy-free.

Variations of Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Salad You Can Try

This sun dried tomato chicken salad is already fantastic, but sometimes I love to switch things up! Here are a few ways you can adapt this recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs, ensuring you always have a delicious option for sun dried tomato chicken dinner ideas.

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the dressing for a little heat that pairs wonderfully with the tangy tomatoes.
Mediterranean Twist: Incorporate Kalamata olives, chopped cucumber, and fresh dill into the salad. This variation gives the chicken with sun dried tomatoes a vibrant, fresh Mediterranean flair.
Avocado Creaminess: Mash in half an avocado along with the mayonnaise for an extra creamy and heart-healthy version of this easy sun dried tomato chicken. Try this healthy avocado chicken salad recipe for another idea.
Herb Garden Delight: Experiment with different fresh herbs like basil, chives, or dill instead of, or in addition to, the parsley. Each herb brings a unique aroma and flavor to the sun dried tomato chicken base.