Name: Marry Me Chicken Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 1 cup mayonnaise; 1 1/2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon sherry vinegar; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 2 teaspoons dried basil or oregano; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste; 3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1 (7-ounce) jar sliced sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil; 3 cups (about 1 pound) shredded cooked chicken; 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 large shallot, finely chopped; Fresh basil leaves, optional for garnish

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Marry Me Chicken Salad combines juicy shredded chicken, creamy mayonnaise, savory Parmesan, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, creating an irresistible symphony of flavors.

It’s creamy, herbacious, and just a little indulgent, making it the best chicken salad recipe for a quick lunch or a dish to impress at gatherings.

This recipe isn’t just delicious—it’s also extremely easy to make. With simple prep and ready in just 15 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weekdays or even meal prep for the week.

You’ll fall in love with how these ingredients come together to create a salad that’s rich in flavor and texture, thanks to the bold inclusion of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh shallots.

My Story Behind This Marry Me Chicken Salad

The inspiration for this homemade Marry Me Chicken Salad came from a twist on my favorite Marry Me Chicken recipe. While experimenting with ways to transform those iconic flavors into a lighter, no-cook option, this salad was born.

The first bite reminded me of a dish you’d serve at a fancy lunch—but it’s so easy to whip up, I knew I had to share it with you.

For me, sun-dried tomatoes are the star here. Their sweetness perfectly complements the creamy mayonnaise and tangy sherry vinegar. And can we talk about the Parmesan? Its salty nuttiness ties the flavors together, ensuring this isn’t just another easy chicken salad.

Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Salad

1 cup mayonnaise
1 1/2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon sherry vinegar
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons dried basil or oregano
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
3/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 (7-ounce) jar sliced sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil
3 cups (about 1 pound) shredded cooked chicken
3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large shallot, finely chopped
Fresh basil leaves, optional (for garnish)

How to Make Marry Me Chicken Salad

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, sherry vinegar, garlic powder, dried basil or oregano, kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and one tablespoon of the oil from the sun-dried tomato jar. This creamy, tangy base will coat your salad beautifully.
Drain the jar of sun-dried tomatoes and finely chop them into small pieces. You should end up with about one cup. Stir these into the prepared mayo mixture to infuse the sauce with their rich, sweet-tart flavor.
Fold in the shredded cooked chicken, grated Parmesan cheese, and finely chopped shallot. Mix until everything is well coated and combined. The chicken should be fully enveloped in that luscious, flavorful dressing.
Taste your salad and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or pepper as needed. If you’re using fresh basil, chop it or leave the leaves whole, then sprinkle it on top for a pop of color and freshness.
Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to five days. Enjoy it cold or let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.

My Chef Tips for the Best Marry Me Chicken Salad

Shortcut your prep: Use store-bought rotisserie chicken to save time. It’s pre-cooked, tender, and easy to shred.
Lighten it up: Substitute half the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt for a tangier, lower-calorie version.
Use fresh Parmesan: If possible, freshly grate your Parmesan cheese for a more robust, creamy flavor. Skip this if you’re in a rush—pre-grated works great too.
Chop your sun-dried tomatoes well: Smaller pieces distribute more evenly throughout the salad, ensuring every bite gets a burst of flavor.
Make it ahead: This salad tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge. The flavors get a chance to mingle and deepen.
Serving ideas: Pile this Marry Me Chicken Salad into lettuce cups, sandwich it between two slices of sourdough, or spoon it over a bed of mixed greens.

Marry Me Chicken Salad FAQs

What is Marry Me Chicken Salad?

Marry Me Chicken Salad is a quick and easy chicken salad variation inspired by the traditional Marry Me Chicken recipe. It features shredded chicken, Parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy, flavorful dressing.

Can I make this salad healthier?

Absolutely! Swap half the mayonnaise for plain Greek yogurt. It’ll still be creamy but with fewer calories and more protein.

How long can I store Marry Me Chicken Salad?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. It’s amazing for meal prep!

What can I serve with this salad?

This quick shredded chicken salad goes well in sandwiches, wraps, on crackers, or over greens. It’s versatile enough for a casual lunch or a party spread.

Is this gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to check your mayonnaise and mustard for any hidden gluten-containing ingredients.

Time to Try This Marry Me Chicken Salad

You’re going to adore how easy and flavorful Marry Me Chicken Salad is. With its creamy texture, bold tangy notes from the sun-dried tomatoes, and just the right amount of Parmesan, this salad hits all the right notes. It’s versatile, satisfying, and perfect for all seasons.

Is this going into your weekday rotation, or will you save it for your next gathering? Either way, I’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment below to let me know how yours turned out—or tag me on social media with your delicious creations. Bon appétit!