What are the 10 best chicken salad recipes?

The 10 best chicken salad recipes include classics like the traditional mayonnaise version, healthy Greek yogurt-based salads, grilled chicken salad recipes, and fun twists like chicken salad with grapes, nuts, curry, avocado, or cranberries. These variations cover everything from simple weekday lunches to party-ready platters.

What makes a simple chicken salad recipe perfect?

A simple chicken salad recipe works best when it balances textures and flavors. Use tender chicken, creamy dressing (mayo or yogurt), crunchy celery, and a touch of acid like lemon juice or mustard for brightness. Keeping the ingredient list short allows each flavor to shine.

How can I make a healthy chicken salad recipe?

For a chicken salad recipe healthy enough for meal prep, swap most of the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt, use lean grilled chicken, and bulk it up with crunchy vegetables like cucumber and celery. A drizzle of lemon juice adds flavor without extra calories.

How do I make a 5-ingredient chicken salad recipe flavorful?

Even a 5-ingredient chicken salad recipe can be elevated by adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard, a squeeze of lemon juice, or fresh herbs like dill. Using high-quality mayonnaise or seasoning the chicken well also boosts the flavor without complicating the recipe.

Chicken Salad Recipe – Delicious & Easy Guide (Top 10 Must-Try)

Description

This classic Chicken Salad is creamy, flavorful, and perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or enjoying on its own. Made with tender cooked chicken, crisp celery, tangy mayonnaise, and a hint of herbs, it’s a versatile dish ideal for lunch, picnics, or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
1/4 cup finely chopped celery
1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional add-ins: 1/4 cup dried cranberries, grapes, or chopped nuts

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Instructions

In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth.
Add the chicken, celery, red onion, and parsley to the bowl. Stir until the chicken is evenly coated with the dressing.
Adjust seasoning to taste, adding more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor.
Serve in sandwiches, wraps, on top of greens, or with crackers.

Notes

Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and flavorful option.
Swap mayonnaise with half sour cream or yogurt for a tangier, lighter taste.
Add a pinch of smoked paprika or curry powder for a twist.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes (if chicken is pre-cooked)
Category: Salad
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 280
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 420mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 75mg