Of course! A creamy chicken and carrot spread is a wonderful and versatile dish. It’s a step up from classic chicken salad, with the carrots adding a subtle sweetness, beautiful color, and extra nutrition.
It’s perfect for sandwiches, crackers, or as a healthy dip.
Here are a couple of versions: one a classic creamy spread, and another with a lighter, Greek yogurt base.
Classic Creamy Chicken and Carrot Spread
This version is rich, savory, and incredibly satisfying.
Yields: About 2 cups
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes (for the carrot)
Ingredients
· 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or finely diced (a rotisserie chicken works perfectly!)
· 1 cup finely grated or very finely diced carrot (about 2 medium carrots)
· ½ cup mayonnaise
· ¼ cup full-fat sour cream or cream cheese, softened
· 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
· 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
· 1 stalk celery, finely diced
· 2 tablespoons red onion or shallot, finely minced
· 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped
· ½ teaspoon garlic powder
· Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Carrot: If you prefer a softer texture and sweeter flavor, lightly steam or sauté the grated carrot for 5-7 minutes until tender. Let it cool completely. For a crunchier spread, you can use the carrot raw.
- Combine: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooled cooked carrot (or raw carrot), celery, and red onion.
- Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Mix: Pour the dressing over the chicken and carrot mixture. Add the fresh herbs and stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill and Serve: For the best flavor, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled.
Lighter Greek Yogurt Chicken and Carrot Spread
This version is tangy, high in protein, and feels a bit fresher.
Yields: About 2 cups
Ingredients
· 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or finely diced
· 1 cup finely grated carrot
· ⅔ cup plain Greek yogurt
· ¼ cup mayonnaise (or omit for an even lighter version)
· 1 tablespoon whole grain mustard
· 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
· 1 green onion, thinly sliced
· 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
· ¼ cup chopped walnuts or almonds (optional, for crunch)
· ½ teaspoon paprika
· Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Follow the same method as above: combine the chicken, carrot, green onion, and optional nuts in a bowl.
- In another bowl, whisk the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients, stir in the dill, and chill before serving.
Success Tips & Customization Ideas
· Shredding Chicken Easily: Place warm, cooked chicken breasts in a stand mixer and use the paddle attachment on low speed for 30-60 seconds. It shreds it perfectly!
· Texture is Key: For the smoothest spread, you can pulse the mixture a few times in a food processor after combining.
· Flavor Boosters:
· Curried Version: Add 1 teaspoon of curry powder and a handful of raisins or chopped apricots.
· Herby Version: Use a combination of tarragon, chives, and parsley.
· Smoky Version: Add a few drops of liquid smoke or a pinch of smoked paprika.
· Sweet & Savory: Add ¼ cup of finely chopped apple.
· Serving Suggestions:
· Sandwiches: Excellent on croissants, crusty bread, or in a wrap with lettuce.
· Crackers or Crostini: A perfect easy appetizer.
· Lettuce Cups: For a low-carb option.
· Stuffed in Vegetables: Great in hollowed-out cherry tomatoes or mini sweet peppers.
This creamy chicken and carrot spread is a fantastic way to create something delicious and visually appealing from simple ingredients. Enjoy