This Easy Vegan Chicken Salad is a delicious blend of chickpeas, crunchy veggies, and creamy dressing. It’s perfect for sandwiches or scooping onto crackers!
You won’t even miss the chicken, I promise! I love making this for lunch, and it’s super easy to whip up. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover veggies in your fridge!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chickpeas: The star of the show! They provide protein and a great texture. If you don’t have canned, you can use cooked dry chickpeas. Just soak and cook them beforehand.
Vegan Mayonnaise: This gives the salad its creamy texture. If you want a healthier twist, try using avocado instead. It adds creaminess and healthy fats!
Dijon Mustard: It adds a nice tang. If you’re not a fan, swap it out for yellow mustard or omit it entirely for a milder flavor.
Red Grapes: These add a lovely sweetness. You can replace them with dried cranberries or chopped apples for a different flavor. I personally love the crunch of apples!
Celery: Essential for crunch! If you want a different texture, try using diced cucumber or bell peppers instead.
How Do You Get the Right Texture When Mashing Chickpeas?
The texture is key to this dish. To get it just right, you want the chickpeas mostly mashed but with some chunks left for that “shredded” feel. Here’s how:
- Use a fork or potato masher and gently press to break them up, but don’t overdo it.
- Leave some whole for that great texture contrast.
- If you prefer a smoother mix, you can also pulse them a few times in a food processor, but keep it chunky!
Taking your time here will make a big difference, so enjoy the process!
Easy Vegan Chicken Salad
Ingredients
- 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup vegan mayonnaise
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup red grapes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 4 vegan-friendly croissants or sandwich bread
Time Needed
This Easy Vegan Chicken Salad takes about 10 minutes of prep time and at least 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. So, you’ll be enjoying this tasty dish in just around 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Mash the Chickpeas
In a medium bowl, take your drained and rinsed chickpeas and mash them using a fork or potato masher. You want them to be mostly broken down, but keep some chunks for that shredded texture—just like chicken!
2. Mix the Dressing
Now it’s time to add some flavor! Add the vegan mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, fresh lemon juice, and a sprinkle of salt and black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well combined and creamy.
3. Add the Crunchy Ingredients
Next, fold in the chopped celery, halved grapes, and red onion if you’re using it. This will give your salad a nice crunch and a bit of sweetness. Go ahead and mix everything gently.
4. Taste and Adjust
Before chilling, taste your salad! Adjust the seasoning if needed—maybe a little extra salt or pepper to your liking.
5. Chill the Salad
Cover your bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time helps the flavors blend beautifully!
6. Serve It Up!
Once it’s all chilled and ready, it’s time to serve! Spoon your lovely vegan “chicken” salad onto croissants or your favorite bread. It’s delicious served with a side of fresh grapes or a light salad.
Enjoy this creamy and crunchy vegan chicken salad as a scrumptious meal or snack!
FAQ About Easy Vegan Chicken Salad
Can I Use Different Beans Instead of Chickpeas?
Absolutely! While chickpeas give the best texture, you can substitute with white beans like cannellini or navy beans. Just mash them in the same way, and you’ll have a tasty alternative!
How Long Will Leftovers Last in the Fridge?
Your vegan chicken salad will stay fresh in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving to mix up any settled ingredients!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! To make this vegan chicken salad gluten-free, simply use gluten-free bread or lettuce wraps for serving instead of croissants or regular sandwich bread.
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
If you’re looking to kick up the flavor, consider adding some diced pickles, capers, or herbs like dill or parsley. They can add a fresh, tangy twist to the salad!
