Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Honey Hot Chicken Salad is a bold, flavorful twist on classic chicken salad, combining the sweetness of honey with a spicy kick of hot sauce. Tossed with crunchy vegetables and tender chicken, it’s a satisfying dish perfect for lunch, meal prep, or light dinners. This vibrant salad delivers a balance of heat, sweetness, and texture in every bite.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
cooked chicken breast (shredded or chopped)mayonnaisehoneyhot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot or your favorite brand)celery (diced)red onion (finely chopped)pickles or relish (optional)apple cider vinegarDijon mustardsaltblack peppermixed greens or lettuce (for serving)
directions
In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, honey, hot sauce, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Mix until smooth.
Add the chopped or shredded chicken, celery, red onion, and pickles or relish if using.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Serve over a bed of mixed greens, in a sandwich, or with crackers.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesChilling time: 30 minutesTotal time: 45 minutes
Variations
Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter option.
Add chopped apples or grapes for a sweet crunch.
Top with toasted pecans or sunflower seeds for extra texture.
Swap hot sauce for sriracha or chipotle for different flavor profiles.
storage/reheating
Store Honey Hot Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Not recommended for freezing due to the mayo-based dressing.Best served chilled, but can be brought to room temperature if preferred.
Print
Honey Hot Chicken Salad
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
A bold and flavorful Honey Hot Chicken Salad that combines crispy spicy chicken with a refreshing mix of greens, creamy dressing, and a touch of honey for balance.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
- 2 tbsp honey
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 4 cups mixed salad greens
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp ranch or blue cheese dressing
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken breasts in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
- In a bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Remove chicken from buttermilk and coat in the flour mixture.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes per side.
- In a small saucepan, heat hot sauce and honey together until warm and combined.
- Toss the cooked chicken in the honey hot sauce mixture until fully coated.
- Slice the chicken into strips.
- In a large bowl, combine salad greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, avocado, and cheese if using.
- Top the salad with sliced honey hot chicken and drizzle with ranch or blue cheese dressing.
- Serve immediately while the chicken is warm.
Notes
- You can bake or air-fry the chicken for a healthier version.
- Adjust the heat level by using more or less hot sauce.
- Use grilled chicken instead of fried for a lighter option.
- Great for meal prep—store chicken and salad separately.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 880mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time.
How spicy is this salad?
The heat level depends on how much hot sauce you use. Adjust to your taste.
Can I make it ahead?
Absolutely, it actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours.
Is it good for meal prep?
Yes, it holds up well in the fridge and is great for lunches.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, just ensure your mayo is dairy-free.
Is it gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all ingredients, especially the hot sauce and mustard, are gluten-free.
Can I serve it warm?
It’s traditionally served cold, but lightly warming the chicken before mixing is an option.
What greens go best with it?
Romaine, arugula, or spring mix work well.
What kind of hot sauce is best?
Frank’s RedHot, Tabasco, or your favorite brand will work—choose based on your heat preference.
Can I add cheese?
Yes, crumbled blue cheese or shredded cheddar can be delicious additions.
Conclusion
Honey Hot Chicken Salad is the perfect blend of sweet and spicy with a creamy, crunchy finish. Whether you’re serving it over greens, in a sandwich, or straight from the bowl, this salad is a flavorful and convenient choice that brings a little heat to your meal routine.
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