Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I tossed together the vibrant colors of the Crunchy Spicy Chicken Salad, I felt a wave of excitement wash over me. This delicious concoction perfectly balances the smoky heat of TABASCO with the satisfying crunch of toasted almonds—a combination that can elevate any simple meal into something extraordinary. Best of all, this salad is incredibly quick to prepare, taking just 10 minutes to whip up, making it the ultimate choice for busy weekdays or unexpected guests. Whether you serve it tucked inside a wrap, as a dip with crunchy tortilla chips, or simply on its own, it’s adaptable to any occasion and can be made gluten-free with the right mayonnaise. Have you ever tasted a salad that’s both comforting and exciting? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe together! Why is this salad a must-try? Flavor Explosion: Each bite of this Crunchy Spicy Chicken Salad delivers a delightful blend of smoky heat and fresh crunch, transforming an ordinary meal into an extraordinary experience. Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a vibrant dish that’s perfect for busy weekdays or impromptu gatherings. Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a salad, in a sandwich, or as a dip with tortilla chips. You can even warm it up in a wrap for a spicy twist! Adaptable Ingredients: Substitute with rotisserie chicken for convenience or use Greek yogurt for a healthier dressing. Customize it to your taste! Crowd Pleaser: This salad is sure to impress guests at potlucks or family dinners, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Pair it with a fresh Taco Salad Crunchy or a side of Dollar Chicken Salad for a complete meal! Crunchy Spicy Chicken Salad Ingredients For the Salad • Cooked Chicken – 2 cups, chopped; serves as a protein base, and for convenience, you can substitute it with rotisserie or canned chicken. • Bell Pepper – ½ (red, orange, or yellow), finely diced; adds sweetness and color to the dish—feel free to swap with other mild peppers if needed. • Celery – 1 stalk, thinly sliced; contributes crunch and freshness; you can use chopped cucumbers for an alternative flavor profile. • Scallions – 2, diced; introduces a mild onion flavor; can be replaced with red onion or chives for variety. • Slivered Almonds – ¼ cup, toasted; enhances crunch; consider walnuts or sunflower seeds for a nut-free version. • Mayonnaise – 3-4 tablespoons; acts as the dressing base; choose Greek yogurt for a lighter option if desired. • Lemon Juice – 1 tablespoon (from ½ lemon); adds brightness and acidity, and lime juice makes for an acceptable substitute. • TABASCO Chipotle Pepper Sauce – 2-3 teaspoons; provides smoky heat; adjust the amount based on your preferred spice level or choose a different hot sauce. • Salt and Pepper – To taste; essential for seasoning. Optional Add-Ins • Fruits – Try adding diced apples or grapes for a hint of sweetness. • Creamy Variations – Swap mayonnaise for a vegan alternative or Greek yogurt to elevate this Crunchy Spicy Chicken Salad into a healthier delight! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crunchy Spicy Chicken Salad Step 1: Combine Ingredients In a medium mixing bowl, start by adding 2 cups of chopped cooked chicken, ½ finely diced bell pepper, 1 thinly sliced celery stalk, and 2 diced scallions. This colorful medley creates the fundamental base for your Crunchy Spicy Chicken Salad. Use a spatula to gently fold the ingredients together. Step 2: Add Crunch Next, sprinkle in ¼ cup of toasted slivered almonds, enhancing the salad’s texture with a satisfying crunch. The almonds not only contribute a delightful crunch but also a nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients. Toss everything together lightly until combined, ensuring the almonds are evenly distributed. Step 3: Prepare the Dressing In a separate bowl, mix 3-4 tablespoons of mayonnaise with 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice and 2-3 teaspoons of TABASCO Chipotle Pepper Sauce. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined, infusing it with a zesty kick. This creamy dressing will enliven your Crunchy Spicy Chicken Salad, bringing all the flavors together. Step 4: Combine Salad with Dressing Pour the dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture, ensuring that every ingredient gets a thorough coating. Use your spatula to gently fold the salad and dressing together, creating a creamy, cohesive blend. As you mix, observe how the vibrant colors meld beautifully. Step 5: Season and Adjust Taste your Crunchy Spicy Chicken Salad and season it with salt and pepper to your liking. This step is essential to highlight all the flavors in the dish. If desired, add more hot sauce for an extra kick or additional lemon juice for brightness. Mixing well will ensure an even distribution of seasoning. Step 6: Serve or Chill You can serve your salad immediately or refrigerate it for about 30 minutes. Chilling enhances the flavors and allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully. When ready to serve, you’ll notice how the creamy dressing clings to the tender chicken and crispy vegetables, making for a deliciously inviting dish. Step 7: Enjoy with Your Choice of Sides Present the Crunchy Spicy Chicken Salad in a bowl or use it as a filling in a sandwich or wrap. It pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips or crackers for dipping. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch, appetizer, or snack, savor every delightful bite of this vibrant salad! Crunchy Spicy Chicken Salad Variations Feel free to get creative with your Crunchy Spicy Chicken Salad by trying these delicious variations that will tantalize your taste buds! Nut-Free: Omit slivered almonds or substitute with sunflower seeds to keep your salad crunchy without the nuts. A perfect option for those with allergies! Fruity Twist: Add diced apples or grapes for a touch of sweetness. The fruits bring a refreshing contrast to the spiciness of the salad, creating a delightful balance. Vegan Version: Swap out mayonnaise for a vegan alternative or Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing without sacrificing creaminess. This keeps it flavorful while aligning with your dietary needs. Heat Level Adjustments: Experiment with different hot sauces to find your perfect spice level. For adventurous eaters, try adding fresh jalapeños for an extra kick! Colorful Peppers: Replace the bell pepper with chopped jalapeños for a spicier version or go for colorful sweet mini peppers to maintain sweetness while adding a vibrant splash. Creamy Avocado: Fold in diced avocado for added creaminess and healthy fats. It complements the salad beautifully and makes each bite even more satisfying. Crunchy Extras: Toss in some crunchy tortilla strips for added texture. It’s a fun twist that makes each mouthful exciting. Wrapped Delight: Serve the salad as a filling in a whole grain wrap or sandwich. It’s a great way to mix up meal presentations, perfect for lunch on the go! Feel free to explore these variations to make your salad uniquely yours! If you’re looking for more inspired ideas, consider pairing it with a classic Broccoli Chicken Penne or a tasty side of Bbq Chicken Tostadas for an unforgettable meal experience. Make Ahead Options These Crunchy Spicy Chicken Salads are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeks! You can prepare the chicken and chop the vegetables (bell pepper, celery, and scallions) up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers to maintain their freshness and crunch. The almonds should be toasted just before serving to keep them crispy. When ready to enjoy, simply mix the prepped ingredients with the dressing made from mayonnaise, lemon juice, and hot sauce, and adjust seasoning as needed. This way, you’ll have a flavorful, satisfying salad ready to go with minimal effort! What to Serve with Ultimate Crunchy Spicy Chicken Salad Elevate your meal with delightful pairings that balance the bold flavors of this vibrant salad. Creamy Avocado Toast: The rich, buttery texture of avocado toast complements the salad’s crunch while adding a healthful twist. Quinoa Pilaf: Light and nutty, quinoa pilaf offers a wholesome base that enhances the salad’s zest without overpowering it. Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a sweet contrast, making every bite of your meal feel light and uplifting. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread adds satisfying crunch and flavor, perfect for balancing the spiciness of the chicken salad. Cucumber Raita: This cool and tangy yogurt-based dip pairs beautifully, soothing the palate while echoing the salad’s fresh notes. Light White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc highlights the vibrant flavors and adds a touch of elegance to your meal. Chocolate Mousse: End on a sweet note with velvety chocolate mousse, balancing the salad’s spice with its rich dessert experience. Expert Tips for Crunchy Spicy Chicken Salad Spice Control: Start with a smaller amount of TABASCO Chipotle Pepper Sauce if you’re unsure about heat. You can always add more according to your preference. Chicken Selection: Opt for well-cooked, tender chicken for the best texture in your salad. Rotisserie chicken provides added flavor and is incredibly convenient. Chill for Flavor: Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully for a more delicious Crunchy Spicy Chicken Salad. Nut-Free Option: If you need a nut-free version, simply substitute slivered almonds with sunflower seeds or omit them altogether while maintaining that satisfying crunch. Creative Add-Ins: Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients like diced fruits for sweetness or different types of peppers for added visual appeal. The goal is to customize it to your taste! Serving Variations: This salad is incredibly versatile! Try it in a wrap or alongside fresh greens for an elevated meal experience. How to Store and Freeze Crunchy Spicy Chicken Salad Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This way, your Crunchy Spicy Chicken Salad retains its fresh flavors and crunchy texture. Freezer: Freezing is not recommended for this salad as the vegetables and dressing may become soggy upon thawing. Reheating: If served chilled, simply take it out of the fridge and enjoy right away! If you’ve added any warm ingredients, enjoy at room temperature. Serving Tip: For the best crunch, serve your salad fresh, or wait until just before serving to add any nuts, ensuring they stay crispy. Crunchy Spicy Chicken Salad Recipe FAQs How do I select the best chicken for my salad? Absolutely! Choose well-cooked, tender chicken for the best texture in your Crunchy Spicy Chicken Salad. Rotisserie chicken is highly recommended due to its flavor and convenience; however, you can also use leftover grilled or baked chicken. If using canned chicken, ensure it’s well-drained and flaked for an even distribution. How should I store my Crunchy Spicy Chicken Salad? After making your salad, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps retain the fresh flavors and crunchy texture. If you’re serving it later, placing it in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving can enhance its flavors. Can I freeze the Crunchy Spicy Chicken Salad? Freezing is not recommended for this salad, as the vegetables and dressing may turn soggy upon thawing. Instead, enjoy your delicious Crunchy Spicy Chicken Salad fresh, as it tastes best when served right away or kept chilled in the fridge. What if I want to adjust the spice level? Very! If you are unsure about the spice level, start with a smaller amount of TABASCO Chipotle Pepper Sauce (1-2 teaspoons) and mix it in. Taste the salad, then gradually add more hot sauce to reach your desired heat level, ensuring you’re comfortable with the spice! What should I do if I have a nut allergy? No worries! You can easily make this salad nut-free. Simply substitute slivered almonds with sunflower seeds or even omit the nuts entirely while still maintaining a satisfying crunch through the other fresh ingredients. How can I make this salad healthier? I recommend swapping mayonnaise for Greek yogurt to lighten this Crunchy Spicy Chicken Salad without sacrificing flavor. You can also add more vegetables, like chopped cucumbers or leafy greens, to increase its nutritional value while keeping it refreshing and delicious! Crunchy Spicy Chicken Salad: A Flavorful Twist on Lunch A delightful Crunchy Spicy Chicken Salad that combines smoky heat with satisfying crunch, perfect for a quick meal. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsChilling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: ChickenCuisine: AmericanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Salad2 cups cooked chicken, chopped can use rotisserie or canned chicken½ bell pepper (red, orange, or yellow), finely diced can swap with other mild peppers1 stalk celery, thinly sliced or chopped cucumbers2 scallions, diced or red onion/chives¼ cup slivered almonds, toasted or walnuts/sunflower seeds for nut-free3-4 tablespoons mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a lighter option1 tablespoon lemon juice (from ½ lemon) or lime juice2-3 teaspoons TABASCO Chipotle Pepper Sauce adjust based on spice preferencesalt and pepper to tasteOptional Add-Insdiced fruits (like apples or grapes) for sweetnessvegan mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for healthier options Equipment Mixing bowlSpatulaMeasuring spoons Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a medium mixing bowl, start by adding 2 cups of chopped cooked chicken, ½ finely diced bell pepper, 1 thinly sliced celery stalk, and 2 diced scallions. Fold gently.Sprinkle in ¼ cup of toasted slivered almonds and toss everything together lightly until combined.In a separate bowl, mix 3-4 tablespoons of mayonnaise with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and 2-3 teaspoons of TABASCO Chipotle Pepper Sauce until smooth.Pour the dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture, and fold gently until combined.Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting spice and acidity if desired.Serve immediately or refrigerate for about 30 minutes to enhance flavors.Present the salad in a bowl or in a wrap, and enjoy with tortilla chips or crackers. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 5mgIron: 10mg NotesFor a nut-free version, substitute slivered almonds with sunflower seeds or omit them. Customize the salad with additional fruits or different types of peppers to suit your taste. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
