Classic Chicken Salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, crunchy celery, and a creamy, tangy dressing. This versatile recipe is perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or serving over a bed of fresh greens. With just a few fresh ingredients and a creamy dressing, this chicken salad is perfect for meal prep, picnics, or a quick and satisfying lunch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: Requires only a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time.
- Great for Meal Prep: Stays fresh in the refrigerator for days.
- Versatile: Perfect in sandwiches, wraps, or as a salad topping.
- Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins like fruits, nuts, or herbs.
- Delicious Anytime: Great for lunch, dinner, or as a party dish.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (optional, for a lighter option)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds or chopped pecans (optional)
- 1/4 cup halved grapes or diced apples (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Chicken: If not using pre-cooked chicken, poach or bake chicken breasts until fully cooked. Allow to cool and then dice or shred into bite-sized pieces.
- Make the Dressing: In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the chicken, celery, red onion, and any optional mix-ins (nuts, fruits) to the dressing. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill and Serve: For the best flavor, refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. Serve on bread, in wraps, or over greens.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Lightened-Up Version: Use all Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.
- Herb Lovers: Add fresh parsley, chives, or tarragon for extra flavor.
- Sweet and Crunchy: Mix in diced apples, grapes, or dried cranberries.
- Nutty Twist: Add walnuts, almonds, or pecans for a satisfying crunch.
- Avocado Chicken Salad: Substitute half the mayo with mashed avocado for a creamy twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the creamy dressing may separate when thawed.
FAQs
Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?
Yes, drained and flaked canned chicken is a quick and easy option.
How do I keep chicken salad from getting watery?
Avoid overmixing and make sure any added fruits or vegetables are well-drained.
What type of chicken is best for chicken salad?
Cooked and cooled chicken breast works best, but rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken are also great choices.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, skip the Greek yogurt and use all mayonnaise or a dairy-free alternative.
What should I serve with Classic Chicken Salad?
Serve with crackers, on croissants, in lettuce wraps, or over a green salad.
How can I make this chicken salad healthier?
Use light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt and add extra veggies like cucumbers or bell peppers.
Can I prepare chicken salad ahead of time?
Yes, it actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours as the flavors meld together.
Can I add hard-boiled eggs to this chicken salad?
Yes, chopped hard-boiled eggs add extra protein and a creamy texture.
What’s the best way to shred chicken for this recipe?
Use two forks, or for quick shredding, use a stand mixer with the paddle attachment.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all ingredients (especially condiments) are gluten-free.
Conclusion
Classic Chicken Salad is a timeless recipe that combines fresh ingredients and a creamy dressing to create a delicious and versatile dish. Whether you enjoy it as a sandwich filling, a salad topping, or a wrap, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. It’s easy to prepare, customizable, and perfect for meal prep. Try this Classic Chicken Salad recipe and enjoy a satisfying meal that’s ready in minutes!
PrintClassic Chicken Salad
This classic chicken salad is a simple and delicious recipe featuring tender chicken, crunchy celery, and a creamy dressing. It’s perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or served over a bed of lettuce for a light and refreshing meal.
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad, Lunch
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped or shredded (about 2 medium chicken breasts)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 stalk celery, finely diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup grapes, halved (optional)
- ¼ cup chopped toasted almonds or pecans (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
-
Prepare the Dressing:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth and creamy.
-
Combine Ingredients:
- Add the cooked chicken, diced celery, red onion, grapes, nuts, and parsley to the bowl.
-
Mix Well:
- Gently stir until all ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
-
Season:
- Add salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.
-
Chill and Serve:
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve as a sandwich filling, on top of salad greens, or in a wrap.
Notes
- Chicken Options: Poached, roasted, or rotisserie chicken works well in this recipe.
- Make It Lighter: Substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier flavor.
- Additional Add-Ins: Consider adding diced apples, dried cranberries, or a handful of chopped herbs for extra flavor.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.