Chicken Salad Without Mayo

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Instead of the traditional creamy mayonnaise, this chicken salad uses a honey mustard vinaigrette that gives the salad a lighter taste. It’s perfect for those who prefer a healthier or dairy-free alternative. The sweet dressing complements the crunch of fresh veggies like celery and red onion, creating a dish that’s both refreshing and easy to prepare.

Chicken Salad Without Mayo in bowl with wooden spoon

Plus, it’s versatile—enjoy it in sandwiches, wraps, or even as a salad topping. With just a few simple steps and ingredients, this chicken salad without mayo is not only delicious but also a breeze to whip up, making it an ideal option for quick lunches or meal prep.

Ingredients

  • Cooked chicken, shredded
  • Celery, finely chopped
  • Red onion, finely chopped
  • Dijon mustard
  • Honey
  • White wine vinegar
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Fresh black pepper (optional)
  • Fresh herbs for garnish: parsley, dill, or scallions
Chicken Salad Without Mayo ingredients

How To Make Chicken Salad Without Mayo

  1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped celery, and red onion.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, white wine vinegar, and extra virgin olive oil until smooth.
  3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss gently to combine, ensuring everything is well coated.
  4. Season with fresh black pepper to taste, if desired.
  5. Let the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  6. Before serving, garnish with chopped fresh herbs of your choice.
top view of Chicken Salad Without Mayo

Additions And Substitutions

  • White wine vinegar can be replaced with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar.
  • If red onion isn’t to your liking, you can easily substitute it with spring onion or a milder option.
  • Feel free to add extra crunchy vegetables if desired. Bell peppers, seedless cucumbers, or finely chopped carrots are all great options.

How To Store

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container or covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Since this is a non-mayo chicken salad, you can freeze the leftovers in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months.

More Chicken Salad Recipes

Chicken Salad Without Mayo

Instead of the traditional creamy mayonnaise, this chicken salad uses a honey mustard vinaigrette that gives the salad a lighter taste. It's perfect for those who prefer a healthier or dairy-free alternative. The sweet dressing complements the crunch of fresh veggies like celery and red onion, creating a dish that's both refreshing and easy to prepare.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Salad
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 644.5 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups cooked chicken shredded
  • 1/2 cup celery finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup red onion finely chopped
  • 4 tbsp dijon mustard
  • 4 tbsp honey
  • 4 tbsp white wine vinegar
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • fresh black pepper if you like!

Instructions
 

  • In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped celery, and red onion.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, white wine vinegar, and extra virgin olive oil until smooth.
  • Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss gently to combine, ensuring everything is well coated.
  • Season with fresh black pepper to taste, if desired.
  • Let the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  • Before serving, garnish with chopped fresh herbs of your choice.