Okay, friend get ready to meet the chicken salad that’s about to blow all the others out of the water. This Cherry Jalapeño Chicken Salad is sweet, spicy, creamy, crunchy, and absolutely unforgettable. It’s the perfect blend of bold and refreshing flavors, like your favorite deli classic decided to get a little wild in the best way. We’re talking juicy cherries, tangy jalapeños, tender chicken, and a creamy dressing that brings it all together. Whether you’re tucking it into a croissant, piling it on crackers, or just eating it straight out of the bowl with a fork (no shame here), trust me this one’s a game-changer.

Why You’ll Love Cherry Jalapeño Chicken Salad

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Serve it as a sandwich, wrap, salad topper, or even a fancy little canapé it does it all.
Budget-Friendly: Uses leftover or rotisserie chicken and a handful of pantry and fridge staples.
Quick and Easy: Mix, chill, and serve. It’s as easy as tossing everything in a bowl.
Customizable: Adjust the heat, sweetness, and texture to match your mood or what’s in your kitchen.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients in Cherry Jalapeño Chicken Salad

This salad is full of personality and flavor, all thanks to this colorful cast of characters:

Cooked Chicken: Shredded or chopped use rotisserie for convenience or leftover grilled for extra flavor.
Dried Cherries: Chewy, sweet, and slightly tart they add a pop of unexpected yum to every bite.
Jalapeños: Diced fresh or pickled, these bring the heat and a touch of tangy flair.
Celery: Crunchy and refreshing it gives the salad that perfect texture contrast.
Red Onion: Sharp and flavorful, a little goes a long way to amp up the taste.
Mayonnaise: The creamy base that pulls everything together. Use light mayo or Greek yogurt if preferred.
Dijon Mustard: Adds a subtle zing that balances the sweetness and spice beautifully.
Salt & Pepper: Because seasoning is everything.
Optional Add-Ins: Chopped pecans, green onions, or a sprinkle of crumbled feta if you’re feeling fancy.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment: No preheating needed here this is a no-cook, all-mix situation. Score!

Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the chicken, cherries, jalapeños, celery, and red onion. Give it a gentle toss to mix everything up evenly.

Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: You’re the vessel! Just kidding grab a mixing bowl and a spoon. That’s all you need here.

Assemble the Dish: In a smaller bowl, whisk together the mayo, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Pour this creamy goodness over the chicken mixture and stir until everything is beautifully coated.

Cook to Perfection: No cooking required, but let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes so the flavors can get to know each other.

Finishing Touches: Give it a final taste test add more salt, pepper, or jalapeño if needed. Want to jazz it up? Sprinkle with some chopped nuts or fresh herbs.

Serve and Enjoy: Serve chilled on your favorite bread, lettuce wraps, or alongside crackers. However you dish it up, it’s going to be delicious.

Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: Approximately 310
(Note: nutritional values may vary based on ingredients and portions.)

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes (plus optional chill time)

How to Serve Cherry Jalapeño Chicken Salad

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
Spoon it into butter croissants or brioche buns for a next-level sandwich
Serve over fresh greens with avocado for a light but satisfying lunch
Scoop with crackers, cucumber slices, or bell pepper wedges for a snacky platter
Wrap it in a tortilla or lettuce leaves for a fun, handheld twist
Stuff into mini phyllo shells for an elegant party appetizer

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor
Pickled jalapeños offer tang and are milder fresh ones bring more heat
Chop ingredients uniformly so every bite has a bit of everything
Letting it chill enhances the flavor and texture don’t skip it if you have time
Make it a day ahead it tastes even better the next day!

FAQ’s

1. Can I use fresh cherries instead of dried?
Yes, just make sure they’re pitted and chopped fresh cherries add juiciness and a bright pop.

2. Is this salad spicy?
It’s mildly spicy, but you can dial the jalapeños up or down to your liking.

3. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayo?
Absolutely! It adds tang and lightens up the salad a bit.

4. How long does it keep in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, it stays fresh for up to 3 days.

5. What’s the best type of chicken to use?
Cooked, shredded chicken breast or rotisserie works great just avoid overly saucy or seasoned varieties.

6. Can I freeze this chicken salad?
Not recommended the mayo and veggies don’t freeze well and may become watery when thawed.

7. What kind of mustard works best?
Dijon adds the perfect tang, but you can use yellow mustard or spicy brown for variation.

8. Can I make it nut-free?
Yes just skip the optional nuts, and you’re good to go.

9. Is this good for meal prep?
Totally! Just portion it out into containers and keep chilled until ready to eat.

10. What can I serve with it?
Fresh fruit, chips, simple salads, or crusty bread all make perfect companions.

Conclusion

Cherry Jalapeño Chicken Salad isn’t just another lunch option it’s a fresh, exciting twist that brings a spark to your day. Whether you’re serving it up at a summer picnic, packing it for work, or just treating yourself to something a little extra, it delivers flavor, texture, and satisfaction in every bite. Sweet, spicy, creamy, and crunchy it checks all the boxes. So go ahead, make a big batch, and let this be your new go-to favorite!

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