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Vegan Chicken Salad Recipe

4.6 from 70 reviews

This Vegan Chicken Salad is a wholesome, plant-based take on the classic chicken salad, using chickpeas and slivered almonds to create a flaky, protein-rich texture. Combined with crunchy celery, sweet grapes, tart dried cherries, and a creamy vegan mayo dressing, it offers a delicious and nutritious option perfect for sandwiches, salads, or snacks.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Base

  • 1/2 cup raw slivered almonds
  • 15 ounce can chickpeas, drained and rinsed

Add-Ins

  • 2 celery ribs, diced small
  • 1/2 cup red grapes, halved
  • 1/4 cup dried cherries

Dressing

  • 1/2 cup Vegan Mayo
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (from about 1/2 lemon)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Pulse almonds: In a food processor, pulse the slivered almonds a few times until crumbly but not powdered; this will provide texture similar to shredded chicken.
  2. Add chickpeas: Add the drained and rinsed chickpeas to the food processor with the almonds and pulse a few times until the mixture is flaky but still textured, avoiding overprocessing to prevent it from becoming smooth and pasty.
  3. Mix salad: Transfer the almond and chickpea mixture to a large bowl, then stir in diced celery, halved grapes, dried cherries, vegan mayo, lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Chill and serve: Refrigerate the salad until ready to serve. It will keep well for up to 5 days. Serve it on croissants or bread with lettuce, on a fresh green salad, or alongside crackers for a tasty, versatile meal option.

Notes

  • Be careful not to over-process the almonds and chickpeas to maintain a chicken-like flaky texture.
  • Adjust salt and lemon juice according to your taste preference.
  • This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Feel free to customize with other fruits or nuts for variety.

Keywords: vegan chicken salad, chickpea salad, plant-based chicken salad, vegan lunch, dairy-free salad, easy vegan recipe