Easy Fried Chicken Salad: Reduce Waste, Save Money

Picture the savory goodness of chicken salad, but made with crunchy leftover fried chicken. This chicken salad is an irresistible mix of flavors and textures, perfect for busy, budget-minded home cooks. Using leftovers means you save money and reduce waste while creating something new and delicious. This simple recipe turns your leftover fried chicken into an incredible meal with minimal effort.

FRIED CHICKEN SALAD: A SIMPLE RECIPE AND A SURPRISING WAY TO SERVE IT

Making chicken salad using leftover fried chicken is a fantastic way to minimize waste and create a new, delicious meal. The crispy texture of the fried chicken, combined with fresh ingredients, makes for a mouthwatering experience. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but it’s also easy on your food budget, stretching it further. Busy cooks will love how quickly they can turn yesterday’s dinner into today’s tasty lunch or dinner.

My favorite way to serve this chicken salad is between two sweet golden waffles, adding a surprising twist to the classic chicken and waffles. The combination of savory chicken salad and the soft, sweet waffles is simply irresistible. This convenient meal is perfect for any time of day, offering a blend of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more.

🛒INGREDIENTS

Essential Ingredients for This Simple Recipe: Fried Chicken Salad

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making a flavorful chicken salad using leftover fried chicken. Each ingredient adds its own unique touch, enhancing the overall taste and texture.

• Fried chicken: The crispy, savory base of the chicken salad. Its golden-brown exterior provides a satisfying crunch, while the juicy meat inside adds rich flavor. Using leftover fried chicken reduces waste and offers an exciting surprise to the dish.
• Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and richness, binding all the ingredients together for a smooth texture. It ensures every bite is moist and flavorful, balancing the crunch of the chicken and vegetables.
• Whole grain mustard: Brings a tangy, sharp flavor that adds depth to the salad. The mustard seeds add a subtle pop of texture, enhancing the overall mouthfeel (I love this word).
• Tabasco sauce: Introduces a hint of heat and spice, giving the salad a bit of a kick. The sauce adds a touch of heat without overwhelming the other ingredients.
• Seasoned salt: Enhances the overall flavor by ensuring everything is well-seasoned.
• Pepper: Adds a mild kick, complementing the other spices. Enhances the flavor without overpowering the salad.
• Celery: Contributes a refreshing crunch and a fresh taste. The crisp texture of celery offsets the rich creaminess of the mayonnaise.
• Green onions: Offers a slightly sharp, zesty taste that brightens up the salad.
• Dill: Adds a fresh, herbal note that complements the savory ingredients in the salad. It gives the salad a more memorable taste.
• Waffles for chicken and waffle sandwiches: Combines sweet and savory, providing a delightful contrast. The soft, sweet waffles pair perfectly with the savory chicken salad, creating a fun and unique twist on a classic dish.

📃STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

Easy Steps to Prepare This Simple Recipe: Fried Chicken Salad

Creating delicious fried chicken salad is simple with the right steps. Follow these instructions to turn your leftover fried chicken into a satisfying and tasty dish.

🔪HELPFUL KITCHEN TOOLS

🍳FRIED CHICKEN ALTERNATIVES

Tasty Fried Chicken Substitutes for This Simple Recipe

If you don’t have leftover fried chicken, don’t worry. You can still make a delicious salad with other types of leftover chicken. Using different kinds of chicken can add new flavors and textures to your dish. This simple recipe allows you to get creative with what you have on hand. Enjoy experimenting with different options to find your favorite combination.

1. Grilled Chicken – Use leftover grilled chicken instead of fried chicken. Dice the grilled chicken and follow the same steps as above. Grilled chicken adds a smoky flavor to the salad.
2. Rotisserie Chicken Salad – Substitute leftover rotisserie chicken for fried chicken. Remove the skin and bones, then dice the meat. Mix with the same ingredients and dressing. This method is quick and convenient.
3. Baked Chicken Salad – Use leftover baked chicken breasts or thighs. Dice the baked chicken and proceed with the recipe. Baking the chicken keeps it healthier and lower in calories.
4. Poached Chicken Salad – Poach chicken breasts in simmering water with herbs and spices. Once cooked, dice the poached chicken and mix with the salad ingredients. Poaching keeps the chicken tender and moist.

🍽️HOW TO SERVE

Creative Ways to Serve This Simple Recipe: Fried Chicken Salad

Fried Chicken Salad can be served in many fun ways. Try it on a bed of fresh greens, stuffed in a wrap, piled high in a sandwich, or our favorite way—served on a golden waffle—for a delicious twist.

🫙STORAGE TIPS

Best Storage Tips for This Simple Recipe: Keeping Your Fried Chicken Salad Flavorful

To store leftover Fried Chicken Salad in the refrigerator, place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Make sure the lid is sealed tight to lock in the flavors. According to the FDA, it will stay good for up to 3-4 days.

If you’re looking for a delicious way to use up leftover fried chicken, this simple recipe for Fried Chicken Salad is the one for you. It’s easy to make and bursting with flavor. Plus, it’s versatile—you can serve it on fresh greens, in wraps, or our favorite way, on golden waffles. This dish is a great addition to your leftover fried chicken recipes and is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy the ease of preparation and fantastic taste!