Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Salad Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that checks all the boxes—refreshing, hearty, vibrant, and delightfully satisfying—the Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Salad is about to become your new obsession. Bursting with crisp-tender broccoli, juicy chicken, sweet cranberries, crunchy nuts, and a tangy Greek yogurt dressing, it goes from kitchen counter to table in the blink of an eye. Whether you need a quick summer lunch or a make-ahead crowd-pleaser, this recipe always shines with balanced flavors and nourishing ingredients you’ll truly crave.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Salad has a role to play, making the final bowl colorful, flavorful, and packed with just the right contrast in textures. The best part? You’re likely to have most of these at hand, but together, they create something amazing.

• Cooked chicken breast: Shredded or diced chicken brings protein and mild flavor, making this salad hearty and satisfying; rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut.
• Fresh broccoli florets: These add a gorgeous green pop and a satisfying crunch; use either blanched for a bit of tenderness or raw for extra crispness.
• Shredded carrots: A sweet, colorful addition that brings subtle earthiness and extra crunch.
• Finely chopped red onion: Sharp, zesty flavor that wakes up the whole salad—use as much or as little as you like.
• Dried cranberries: Their tart sweetness weaves through every bite, balancing out the savory and creamy components.
• Chopped roasted almonds or sunflower seeds: The nuts add irresistible crunch and a toasty note; feel free to swap in your favorite kind.
• Plain Greek yogurt: The base of our creamy dressing, it gives body, protein, and a pleasant tang with less fat than sour cream.
• Mayonnaise: Adds classic creamy richness and smooth mouthfeel—use your favorite brand for the best flavor.
• Apple cider vinegar: Brightens up the dressing with acidity and a little fruity punch.
• Honey: Naturally sweetens and balances the vinegar for a rounded, nuanced flavor.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for tying all the flavors together, bringing out the best in every ingredient.

How to Make Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Salad

Step 1: Prep the Main Ingredients

Start by preparing your chicken (shredded or diced, both work wonderfully) and getting your broccoli cut into bite-sized, appealing florets. If you prefer a slightly softer crunch, drop the broccoli briefly into boiling water for a quick blanch, then plunge it into ice water to keep it vibrantly green. Shred the carrots and finely chop the red onion—these fresh veggies add colorful appeal and extra nutrients.

Step 2: Mix the Salad Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken breast, broccoli florets, shredded carrots, chopped red onion, dried cranberries, and your choice of roasted nuts or seeds. Give everything a gentle toss to distribute the ingredients evenly—this ensures each bite of your Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Salad is fully loaded with flavor and texture.

Step 3: Whisk the Creamy Dressing

In a separate, smaller bowl, whisk together the plain Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, and a sprinkle of salt and black pepper. The mixture should be smooth and luscious, with that perfect harmony of tang, sweetness, and creaminess. Adjust seasoning to your liking; taste is king here.

Step 4: Combine Salad and Dressing

Pour the freshly whisked dressing over your bowl of salad ingredients. Use tongs or a sturdy spoon to toss everything together, making sure the dressing evenly coats every piece. This is where the salad really comes together in all its creamy, colorful glory.

Step 5: Chill and Let the Flavors Meld

Transfer your Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Salad to the fridge and let it chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. This short rest time gives all the flavors a chance to meld beautifully, and makes the salad extra refreshing. Serve it cold and enjoy the burst of flavors!

How to Serve Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Salad

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra roasted almonds or sunflower seeds just before serving adds that irresistible crunch and a touch of visual flair. You can also scatter on some fresh chopped parsley or a little more cracked black pepper for a restaurant-worthy finish.

Side Dishes

This salad is incredibly versatile, pairing well with toasted pita wedges, crusty sourdough, or a simple bowl of soup. For a fresh summer vibe, serve alongside watermelon slices or a plate of ripe cherry tomatoes—it’s light but makes a full meal with just a little extra on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

For entertaining or picnics, try piling your Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Salad into crisp lettuce cups or stuffing it in soft pita pockets. Mini mason jars turn it into adorable portable lunches, and plating it on a large platter with extra toppings lets everyone help themselves at family gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Salad keeps brilliantly in the refrigerator for up to three days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the veggies from wilting. Give it a good toss before serving so that every ingredient gets coated in dressing again.

Freezing

While the salad itself isn’t ideal for freezing (the veggies can turn mushy and watery), you can prepare and freeze the cooked chicken ahead of time. Simply shred and freeze the chicken in portioned bags, then thaw and assemble the salad fresh when needed.

Reheating

This salad is meant to be served cold or at room temperature, so there’s no reheating required. In fact, it’s best enjoyed straight from the fridge. If you prefer it a bit less chilled, let it sit out for a few minutes before digging in.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken in Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Salad?

Absolutely—using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut and adds a bit of extra flavor. Just shred or dice it and toss it right in for a perfectly tender, flavorful salad.

Is it possible to make the salad dairy-free?

Yes! Swap out the Greek yogurt and mayonnaise for your favorite dairy-free alternatives. There are some excellent plant-based yogurt and mayo products available that keep everything just as creamy.

Does the broccoli need to be cooked?

No, you can use raw broccoli for a super crisp texture, or blanch it briefly for a softer, more child-friendly bite. Either way, the salad keeps its bright, refreshing crunch.

What can I substitute for cranberries?

If you’re out of dried cranberries, golden or regular raisins, chopped dried apricots, or even diced fresh apples are tasty alternatives. Each adds its own unique touch of sweetness.

How far in advance can I make Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Salad?

This salad actually tastes even better after chilling for a few hours. Make it up to a day in advance, storing it well-covered in the fridge, and simply give it a quick toss before serving to freshen it up.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something irresistible about Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Salad—every bite is packed with fresh flavors, crunchy textures, and that craveable creamy dressing. If you haven’t made it yet, now’s the perfect time to whip up a batch and see why it has a permanent spot on so many tables. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself making it again and again!

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