Best Classic Chicken Salad

Imagine the perfect chicken salad: tender chunks of juicy chicken, crisp celery, a hint of sweetness from the grapes, and a creamy dressing that ties it all together. This Best Classic Chicken Salad is a dish that brings all the goodness—fresh ingredients, a burst of flavor, and the kind of comfort food that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether you’re prepping lunch for the week or bringing a dish to a gathering, this is the chicken salad that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love Best Classic Chicken Salad

There are so many reasons this chicken salad is a must-try:

Comforting & Classic: It’s the chicken salad everyone loves, no fuss and full of flavor. Simple ingredients come together in a way that feels both comforting and refreshing.

Quick & Easy: If you’re in a time crunch, this recipe comes together in just about 15 minutes. It’s perfect for a busy week or when you’re craving something quick but satisfying.

Versatile: You can serve it on sandwiches, wraps, or over a bed of greens—there are endless ways to enjoy it! It also pairs well with a side of crunchy chips or a light salad.

Perfect for Meal Prep: This chicken salad is great for meal prep. It stays fresh in the fridge for several days, making it an easy option for lunch or dinner all week long.

Family-Friendly: Whether it’s for a casual meal at home or served at a family gathering, this classic chicken salad is loved by both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious and classic chicken salad:

For the Salad:

• Cooked Chicken: Shredded or diced, this is the star of the show. You can use leftover rotisserie chicken or cook up some chicken breasts to keep it simple.
• Celery: For a fresh crunch that balances the creaminess of the dressing.
• Red Grapes: Sliced for a touch of sweetness that complements the savory chicken perfectly.
• Red Onion: Thinly sliced for a hint of sharpness.
• Almonds: Sliced or chopped, they add a nutty crunch that enhances the texture.
• Fresh Parsley: For a pop of color and an added layer of flavor.

For the Dressing:

• Mayonnaise: The creamy base of the dressing. You can use light mayo or Greek yogurt for a healthier version.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds a subtle tang and depth to the dressing.
• Lemon Juice: A little acid to balance out the creaminess and brighten up the flavors.
• Salt & Pepper: To taste, of course!

(Note: The full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s get started—this one’s simple, I promise!

1. Prepare the Chicken:

If you’re not using leftover chicken, cook your chicken breasts by boiling or baking them until fully cooked (about 20-25 minutes). Let the chicken cool, then chop or shred it into bite-sized pieces.

2. Combine the Veggies and Fruit:

In a large bowl, toss together the diced celery, sliced red grapes, sliced red onion, and chopped almonds. The combination of the crunchy veggies, sweet grapes, and nutty almonds makes every bite exciting!

3. Make the Dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth. The dressing should be creamy with just the right balance of tang.

4. Toss Everything Together:

Add the chopped chicken and the dressing to the bowl with the veggies and fruit. Gently toss until everything is well-coated in that creamy, tangy dressing. Taste and adjust the seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.

5. Chill and Serve:

Let the chicken salad chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. You can enjoy it right away, but the resting time really brings out the best in this dish.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 340
Total Fat: 22g

• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
  Cholesterol: 50mg
  Sodium: 500mg
  Total Carbohydrates: 12g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 6g
  Protein: 28g
  Vitamin A: 6%
  Vitamin C: 10%
  Calcium: 4%
  Iron: 10%
  Potassium: 600mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve Best Classic Chicken Salad

This chicken salad is so versatile—you can serve it in so many ways:

• On Bread or a Croissant: Classic chicken salad on a sandwich is always a winner. Try it on a soft croissant for extra indulgence.
• In a Wrap: If you’re looking for a lighter option, try wrapping it in a tortilla with some leafy greens for a simple, satisfying lunch.
• On Greens: Make it a low-carb meal by serving it on a bed of lettuce or arugula. Top with some fresh avocado for added richness.
• With Crackers: Serve it as an appetizer with some crunchy crackers on the side.

Additional Tips

• Make It Healthier: To make the salad lighter, you can substitute half of the mayo with Greek yogurt or use a lighter version of mayo.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Fresh dill, thyme, or tarragon are great additions to elevate the flavor of your chicken salad.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This chicken salad can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
A1: Yes! This chicken salad stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it perfect for meal prep.

Q2: Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?
A2: While fresh or rotisserie chicken is ideal, you can use canned chicken if it’s all you have on hand. Just be sure to drain it well.

Q3: Can I substitute the grapes with something else?
A3: Absolutely! You can use apples, dried cranberries, or even pomegranate seeds if you prefer a different flavor.

Q4: Is this chicken salad gluten-free?
A4: Yes, as long as you use gluten-free bread or wraps for serving, this chicken salad itself is gluten-free.

Q5: Can I use a different type of nut?
A5: Yes! Walnuts, pecans, or even sunflower seeds would be great replacements for almonds.

Q6: Can I make this dish dairy-free?
A6: Yes, simply swap the mayonnaise for a dairy-free version or use avocado as a creamy base instead.

Q7: How do I make the chicken salad spicier?
A7: If you love spice, you can add a bit of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the dressing, or even dice up some jalapeños to stir in.

Q8: Can I make this chicken salad with grilled chicken?
A8: Yes! Grilled chicken would add a lovely smoky flavor to the salad, making it even more delicious.

Q9: Can I use frozen chicken?
A9: Yes, just make sure to thaw and cook it properly before using it in the salad.

Q10: How do I store leftovers?
A10: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It’s best enjoyed cold.

Conclusion

This Best Classic Chicken Salad is the kind of dish that brings comfort and flavor to the table without being overly complicated. With a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that feels familiar and satisfying. Whether you’re serving it for lunch, packing it for a picnic, or sharing it at a gathering, this chicken salad is sure to be a hit. Give it a try—you’ll be hooked!

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