A Lighter Olivier Salad Swaps Sausage for Chicken and Fresh Herbs

Culinary blogger Zurab has shared a family recipe for Olivier salad that skips the usual sausage. Instead, the dish uses beef or chicken breast as its main protein. This version of the classic salad is packed with vegetables, herbs, and a light touch of mayonnaise for a balanced flavour.

The recipe begins with boiled vegetables: potatoes, carrots, eggs, and chicken. Carrots are finely diced, while potatoes are cut into larger chunks. Eggs and chicken are then chopped into even, bite-sized cubes.

Cucumbers are grated and drained to remove excess water, keeping the salad fresh and crisp. The ingredients are combined in a large bowl to prevent overmixing and maintain their texture.

Fresh herbs—dill, green onions, and a small amount of white onion—add brightness to the dish. Mayonnaise is stirred in gradually, ensuring the salad stays light rather than overly creamy. A pinch of salt, black pepper, and a dash of chili pepper or hot sauce complete the seasoning.

The salad serves 6-8 people and improves in flavour after resting overnight. For presentation, it can be shaped in a small, deep plate or mold for an elegant finish.

This version of Olivier salad replaces sausage with chicken, offering a lighter alternative. The dish relies on fresh vegetables, herbs, and careful seasoning for its taste. Served chilled, it works well as a side or a standalone meal.