When it comes to creating the perfect chicken salad, few recipes can match the bold flavors and satisfying crunch of this beloved Sassy Scotty Chicken Salad Recipe. This isn’t just another ordinary chicken salad – it’s a flavor-packed masterpiece that combines tender chicken with crisp vegetables, tangy dressing, and a secret blend of seasonings that will have your taste buds dancing with joy.
Whether you’re looking for the best chicken salad recipe homemade for your family gatherings, planning ahead for summer recipes, or simply craving a refreshing summer salad that’s both nutritious and delicious, this Sassy Scotty Chicken Salad copycat recipe delivers on all fronts. Perfect for picnics, lunch boxes, or elegant brunch spreads, this versatile dish transforms simple ingredients into something truly extraordinary.
Recipe Information
Difficulty: Easy
Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Resting Time: 30 minutes (for flavors to meld)
Servings: 6-8 people
Estimated Cost: Affordable
Ingredients for Sassy Scotty Chicken Salad Recipe
For the Chicken:
- 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Salad:
- 1 cup celery, finely diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely minced
- 1/3 cup sweet pickle relish
- 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 cup red grapes, halved
- 1/2 cup toasted pecans, roughly chopped
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment Required
- Large pot for poaching chicken
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium bowl for dressing
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wire whisk
- Rubber spatula
Recipe Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a large pot and cover with cold water by about 2 inches. Add bay leaves, salt, pepper, and olive oil to the water. Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove chicken from the pot and let cool completely before shredding into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
While the chicken cools, finely dice the celery and red onion. The key to a great chicken salad is uniform, small pieces that distribute evenly throughout the mixture. Chop the fresh herbs and set aside. Halve the grapes and roughly chop the toasted pecans for the perfect texture contrast.
Step 3: Make the Signature Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, and Dijon mustard until smooth. Add honey, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. This combination creates the signature “sassy” flavor that sets this recipe apart from ordinary chicken salads. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Combine the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced celery, red onion, pickle relish, fresh herbs, grapes, and chopped eggs. Pour the dressing over the mixture and gently fold everything together with a rubber spatula until evenly coated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the salad mushy.
Step 5: Add the Final Touches
Fold in the toasted pecans just before serving to maintain their crunch. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. The salad should be creamy, tangy, and well-balanced with a hint of sweetness from the grapes and honey.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This resting time is crucial for developing the full flavor profile that makes this the best chicken salad recipe homemade.
Chef’s Tips and Variations
Pro Tips for Perfect Results:
- Don’t overcook the chicken – it should be tender and juicy, not dry
- Use a combination of white and dark meat for extra flavor and moisture
- Toast the pecans lightly in a dry skillet for enhanced nutty flavor
- Dice vegetables uniformly for the best texture and appearance
Delicious Variations:
- Cranberry Walnut Version: Replace grapes with dried cranberries and pecans with walnuts
- Tropical Twist: Add diced pineapple and substitute pecans with toasted coconut
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the dressing
- Mediterranean Style: Include diced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and substitute pecans with pine nuts
Serving Suggestions:
This versatile summer salad pairs beautifully with:
- Buttery croissants or artisan rolls
- Crisp lettuce cups for a low-carb option
- Toasted sourdough bread for classic sandwiches
- Fresh fruit salad for a complete summer meal
- Crackers and cheese for an elegant appetizer spread
Storage Tips:
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
- The salad tastes even better the next day as flavors continue to develop
- Add nuts just before serving to maintain crunchiness
- Don’t freeze – the texture will be compromised
Nutrition Information
Per Serving (1 cup):
- Calories: 285
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 8g
This summer recipe provides excellent protein content while incorporating fresh vegetables and fruits for a well-balanced, nutritious meal.
Why This Sassy Scotty Chicken Salad Recipe Works
What makes this Sassy Scotty Chicken Salad copycat recipe truly special is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The combination of sweet grapes, crunchy pecans, tangy pickles, and fresh herbs creates a symphony of taste that elevates simple chicken salad to gourmet status. The signature dressing, with its hint of honey and apple cider vinegar, provides the “sassy” kick that gives this recipe its name.
This recipe has become a favorite for summer recipes because it’s refreshing, doesn’t require heating up the kitchen, and can be prepared in advance. It’s perfect for potluck dinners, picnics, or any occasion where you want to impress guests with minimal effort.
The beauty of this best chicken salad recipe homemade lies in its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit different dietary preferences or seasonal ingredients, making it a go-to recipe year-round. The combination of protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables makes it a satisfying meal that won’t leave you feeling heavy or sluggish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this Sassy Scotty Chicken Salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! This summer salad actually improves with time as the flavors meld together. You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance. Just add the pecans right before serving to maintain their crunch.
What’s the best way to cook chicken for this recipe?
Poaching is the preferred method as it keeps the chicken moist and tender. You can also use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or bake chicken breasts at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until cooked through.
Can I substitute ingredients in this Best Chicken Salad Recipe Homemade?
Yes! This recipe is very adaptable. You can substitute Greek yogurt for some of the mayonnaise for a lighter version, use almonds instead of pecans, or add different herbs like tarragon or parsley.
How long does this chicken salad keep in the refrigerator?
When properly stored in an airtight container, this Sassy Scotty Chicken Salad Recipe will keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. The flavors actually improve after the first day.
What makes this a “copycat” recipe?
This Sassy Scotty Chicken Salad Copycat recipe recreates the beloved flavors of the original restaurant-style version, featuring the signature combination of grapes, pecans, and that special tangy-sweet dressing that makes it so distinctive.
Final Thoughts
This Sassy Scotty Chicken Salad Recipe proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary results when combined thoughtfully. Whether you’re serving it at a summer gathering, packing it for lunch, or enjoying it as a light dinner, this recipe delivers consistent, delicious results that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
The perfect balance of protein, crunch, and flavor makes this one of the best summer recipes you can have in your repertoire. It’s fresh, satisfying, and sophisticated enough for special occasions while being simple enough for everyday meals.
Have you tried this recipe? We’d love to hear about your experience! Please leave a comment below sharing your results, any variations you tried, or questions you might have. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family who appreciate great homemade chicken salad – they’ll thank you for it!
For more delicious summer recipes and cooking tips, be sure to explore our other recipes and follow us on social media. Happy cooking!
