🥕 Creamy Chicken and Carrot Spread – A Wholesome, Flavorful Dip Perfect for Sandwiches, Wraps & Snacking! 🍗🧈🥬

October 21, 2025 - By Olivia Food

If you love spreads that are both hearty and light — something you can whip up quickly and enjoy all week long — this Creamy Chicken and Carrot Spread is for you. Imagine tender chicken mixed with grated carrots, creamy mayonnaise, and a hint of spice and herbs — all coming together into a silky, luscious paste that tastes like comfort and freshness in one bite.

This recipe is ideal for meal prep, picnics, or quick sandwiches when you want something homemade but effortless. It’s also a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken.

Ingredients (Makes about 2 cups)

2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or finely chopped (roasted, boiled, or leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly)

1 large carrot, peeled and finely grated
½ small onion, finely minced (optional but adds a nice kick)
½ cup mayonnaise (use full-fat for creaminess or light mayo for a lighter version)

2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt (adds tang and smoothness)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (or regular mustard for a milder flavor)

1 teaspoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed, to brighten the flavor)
1 clove garlic, finely minced or pressed (you can adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon paprika (optional, for a gentle smoky note)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (or dill, for a different touch)

Optional Add-ins (for variation and creativity):

1 tablespoon cream cheese for extra richness and structure
½ cup finely chopped celery or pickles for crunch and tang

A pinch of chili flakes if you like it slightly spicy
A drizzle of honey or a few raisins if you enjoy a sweet-salty twist

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cooking your chicken if it’s not already done. You can boil, bake, or roast the chicken breasts. For the best flavor, season lightly with salt and a bay leaf when boiling.
Once cooked, let it cool, then shred it finely using two forks or chop it into very small pieces. The finer the texture, the smoother the spread.

Step 2: Grate the Carrots

Peel your carrot and grate it using the fine side of a box grater.
The goal is to get soft, delicate shreds that will blend easily with the creamy base. Grating also releases the carrot’s natural sweetness — perfect to balance the savory chicken.

Step 3: Mix the Creamy Base

In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), mustard, lemon juice, and garlic.
Whisk everything together until smooth and creamy. This is your flavor foundation — tangy, rich, and slightly zesty.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the shredded chicken and grated carrots into the creamy base.
Sprinkle in salt, pepper, paprika, and parsley.
Mix everything gently with a spatula until all ingredients are evenly coated. You should get a thick, spreadable mixture with visible flecks of carrot and herbs.

Step 5: Taste and Adjust

Taste the spread — this part is key!
If it feels too thick, add a spoonful of Greek yogurt or a few drops of milk to loosen it.
Adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice depending on your preference.

Step 6: Chill Before Serving

For best flavor, cover and refrigerate the spread for at least 30 minutes.
This resting time allows the flavors to meld — the garlic softens, the lemon brightens, and everything becomes harmoniously balanced.

Serving Ideas

As a sandwich spread: Slather it between two slices of soft white, whole-grain, or brioche bread. Add lettuce, cucumber, or tomato for freshness.

In wraps or pita pockets: Combine with lettuce and a drizzle of hot sauce or a few pickles.
As a dip: Serve with crackers, breadsticks, cucumber slices, or carrot sticks.
As a topping: Spread on toasted baguette slices for quick appetizers.

Stuffed eggs or pastry filling: You can even use it as a filling for boiled eggs or puff pastry pockets.

Storage Tips

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Stir before serving, as the moisture might separate slightly after chilling.

Not suitable for freezing (mayonnaise can split once thawed).

Chef’s Notes

If you’re using leftover roasted chicken, the flavor will be deeper and slightly smoky — delicious in this spread.
For a lighter, fresher version, substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
For kids, skip the raw onion and garlic to keep the flavor milder and sweeter.

In Summary

This Creamy Chicken and Carrot Spread is the perfect harmony of creamy, savory, and subtly sweet. It’s rich but not heavy, and every bite feels homemade and satisfying. Whether you’re packing lunch, preparing a quick dinner, or setting out snacks for guests, this recipe delivers wholesome comfort with minimal effort.