Imagine a chicken salad that's not just another boring lunch option, but a flavor explosion that transforms ordinary ingredients into a culinary masterpiece! Our Roasted Tomato Chicken Salad is about to revolutionize your meal prep, bringing together the smoky sweetness of caramelized cherry tomatoes and perfectly shredded chicken in a dish that's both elegant and incredibly easy to make. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a recipe that looks gourmet but comes together in just 40 minutes!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- In a small bowl, toss halved cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them evenly on the prepared baking sheet, cut side up, to maximize caramelization during roasting.
- Roast the tomatoes in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they become slightly charred and begin to burst, releasing their natural sweetness.
- While tomatoes are roasting, prepare the shredded chicken. If using leftover chicken, ensure it is finely shredded. For freshness, you can poach or grill chicken breasts and then shred them.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, diced red onion, mayonnaise, and freshly chopped basil. Mix thoroughly to ensure even coating.
- Once tomatoes are roasted and slightly cooled, gently fold them into the chicken salad mixture, being careful not to break them apart.
- Season the salad with additional salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Chill the chicken salad in the refrigerator for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
- Serve chilled, optionally on a bed of mixed greens, in a sandwich, or with crackers for added texture.
Tips
- For the most flavorful chicken, use freshly cooked and shredded chicken instead of pre-packaged options. Poaching or grilling your own chicken ensures maximum taste and texture.
- When roasting tomatoes, use parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Watch them closely to achieve that perfect caramelized exterior without burning.
- Let the chicken salad chill for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and creates a more cohesive dish.
- For added crunch, consider mixing in some toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds just before serving.
- This salad is incredibly versatile - serve it on mixed greens, as a sandwich filling, or with crackers for a protein-packed snack.
- If you prefer a lighter version, swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative without compromising on creaminess.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 212kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
