If you love a rich, creamy, and flavorful chicken salad, then this Honey Bay Ham Chicken Salad Chick recipe is about to become your new go-to. Inspired by classic Southern flavors, this chicken salad combines tender rotisserie chicken, savory ham, crunchy celery, sweet red grapes, and a creamy mayo-based dressing for the perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether served on a flaky buttered croissant, in a lettuce wrap, or with crackers, this recipe is sure to impress.
Let’s dive into how to make this mouthwatering dish at home!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – Ready in under 20 minutes.
- Perfect for Meal Prep – Stays fresh for days in the fridge.
- Versatile – Serve it as a sandwich, wrap, or salad.
- Crowd-Pleaser – A hit at picnics, potlucks, and family gatherings.
Honey Bay Ham Chicken Salad Chick
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make the best Honey Bay Ham Chicken Salad Chick, you’ll need these simple ingredients:
For the Chicken Salad:
✔ 2 cups rotisserie chicken, diced
✔ 1 cup honey-glazed ham, diced
✔ ½ cup red grapes, halved
✔ ½ cup celery, finely chopped
✔ ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
✔ ¾ cup mayonnaise (Duke’s or Hellmann’s recommended)
✔ 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
✔ 1 teaspoon honey
✔ ½ teaspoon garlic powder
✔ ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
✔ Salt & pepper to taste
For Serving:
✔ Buttered croissants, toasted
✔ Lettuce leaves (optional)
✔ Crackers or pita chips (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by dicing the rotisserie chicken and honey-glazed ham into small, bite-sized pieces. Then, finely chop the celery and red onion. Slice the red grapes in half to balance their sweetness in the salad.
Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This creamy dressing will give your chicken salad its signature sweet-savory flavor.
Step 3: Mix It All Together
Add the diced chicken, ham, celery, red onion, and grapes into the bowl with the dressing. Gently fold everything together until all ingredients are well coated. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 4: Chill for Maximum Flavor
For the best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 5: Assemble & Serve
Slice and butter your croissants, then lightly toast them for extra crispiness. Spoon the chicken salad onto the croissants and serve with lettuce leaves for an added crunch. You can also serve it on crackers or as a lettuce wrap for a low-carb option.
Pro Tips for the Best Honey Bay Ham Chicken Salad Chick
✔ Use Fresh Rotisserie Chicken – It adds more flavor and tenderness.
✔ Adjust Mayo to Your Liking – Add more or less depending on how creamy you want it.
✔ Chop Ingredients Evenly – This ensures a balanced texture in every bite.
✔ Chill Before Serving – Letting it sit enhances the taste.
✔ Try Different Breads – Swap croissants for brioche buns, wraps, or even a toasted bagel.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this chicken salad ahead of time?
Yes! This recipe is perfect for meal prep. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
2. Can I use grilled or boiled chicken instead of rotisserie?
Absolutely! While rotisserie chicken adds extra flavor, grilled or boiled chicken works just as well.
3. What can I substitute for mayo?
If you prefer a lighter option, you can replace mayo with Greek yogurt or a mix of half mayo and half sour cream.
4. Can I add nuts to this recipe?
Yes! Chopped pecans or walnuts add a delicious crunch and pair well with the sweetness of the grapes.
5. What side dishes go well with this chicken salad?
Serve it with a side of fresh fruit, potato chips, a simple green salad, or a cup of soup for a complete meal.
This Honey Bay Ham Chicken Salad Chick is a game-changer when it comes to easy, flavorful meals. Whether you’re preparing it for a family lunch, a weekend brunch, or a quick weekday meal, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. The combination of juicy chicken, savory ham, crunchy veggies, and a creamy dressing creates a perfect harmony of flavors.
Try it today, and let us know how it turns out!
Did you make this recipe? Drop a comment below and share your favorite variations!
