Classic Chicken Salad

You know those recipes that feel like a warm hug? Classic Chicken Salad is one of them. It’s simple, comforting, and can be enjoyed in so many ways—whether you’re spreading it on a sandwich, spooning it over a bed of greens, or just eating it straight out of the bowl (no judgment here!). This is the kind of dish that reminds you of sunny picnics, laid-back lunches, and family gatherings. It’s the perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and savory, and it’s just so easy to make. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked.

Why You’ll Love Classic Chicken Salad

Simple Yet Flavorful:

Made with just a few key ingredients, this chicken salad is all about quality over complexity. The chicken is perfectly tender, and the creamy dressing brings it all together with a touch of tang from the mayo and a pop of freshness from the celery and herbs.

Customizable:

While this recipe is a classic, it’s also super flexible! Want to add a bit of crunch? Throw in some nuts, like almonds or walnuts. Prefer something sweet? A handful of grapes or apples will do the trick. You can make it your own based on what you love.

Quick and Easy:

This dish is a lifesaver when you’re in a pinch. Whether you’re preparing lunch for the week or needing a quick dinner, it comes together in no time. Plus, it keeps well in the fridge, so you can enjoy it for days to come.

Light and Refreshing:

While it’s creamy and satisfying, chicken salad has a lightness to it that makes it perfect for any season. Whether you’re serving it on a hot summer day or during colder months, it’s always the right choice.

Perfect for Meal Prep:

You can make a big batch of this chicken salad and have it ready to go throughout the week. It’s perfect for lunches, snacks, or even quick dinners when you’re feeling lazy (but still want something delicious).

Ingredients

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

Cooked Chicken:

The star of the show! You can use rotisserie chicken for a shortcut, or cook your own chicken breasts for a more homemade touch. Shredded or diced, the chicken is the base for this salad.

Mayonnaise:

For the creamy texture that holds everything together. It’s rich and adds that comfort-food vibe that makes this salad irresistible.

Dijon Mustard:

A little bit of mustard gives a touch of tang and depth to the salad, balancing out the richness of the mayo.

Celery:

The perfect crunch to add freshness and texture to the salad. Plus, it’s a nice contrast to the creamy dressing.

Red Onion:

A bit of finely chopped red onion adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that enhances the overall taste of the chicken salad.

Fresh Herbs:

Chopped fresh parsley or dill adds brightness and a burst of flavor. Feel free to experiment with other herbs you love!

Salt & Pepper:

To season everything just right! A little bit of salt and pepper can elevate the entire dish.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Here’s how to bring this simple, satisfying dish to life:

Shred or Dice the Chicken:

Start by shredding or dicing the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. If you’re using a rotisserie chicken, just pull the meat off the bones and chop it up.

Prepare the Veggies:

Chop the celery and red onion into small pieces. The celery adds crunch, and the onion gives a mild kick, so be sure to chop it finely so it blends nicely into the salad.

Make the Dressing:

In a bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—maybe a little extra mustard if you want more tang, or some more salt if you’re feeling it.

Mix Everything Together:

In a large bowl, toss the chicken, celery, onion, and fresh herbs. Pour the dressing over the top and stir until everything is evenly coated. Be gentle while mixing so the chicken stays tender and doesn’t get shredded too much.

Chill and Serve:

Pop the chicken salad in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. Then, it’s ready to serve!

Enjoy:

Serve it on a bed of lettuce, spread it on a sandwich or wrap, or just enjoy it straight from the bowl. No matter how you enjoy it, it’s always a hit!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 380 kcal
Nutritional Breakdown per serving:

• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 60mg
• Sodium: 550mg
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 30g

(Note: These values are based on standard ingredients used. Nutritional information will vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

Preparation Time

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

How to Serve Classic Chicken Salad

On a Sandwich or Wrap:

This classic chicken salad is perfect for making sandwiches or wraps. Load it up on your favorite bread or in a tortilla, and you’ve got a satisfying lunch that’s ready to go.

Over Salad Greens:

For a lighter meal, serve the chicken salad on a bed of fresh greens like lettuce, spinach, or arugula. You can even add some sliced avocado or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor.

With Crackers:

Serve it with some crunchy crackers for a snack or appetizer. The crunch of the crackers pairs perfectly with the creamy salad, and it’s a great option for parties or gatherings.

In Lettuce Cups:

For a low-carb option, serve the chicken salad in crispy lettuce leaves. It’s a refreshing, crunchy way to enjoy this dish without the bread.

On a Croissant:

If you’re feeling fancy, serve the chicken salad on a buttery croissant. The flakiness of the croissant adds a whole new level of deliciousness to the salad.

Additional Tips

Make it Ahead:

Chicken salad keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days, so it’s great for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and have a delicious lunch or snack ready to go whenever you need it.

Add Extra Crunch:

If you want to add more texture, toss in some chopped nuts (like almonds or walnuts) or even a little bit of shredded carrot.

Swap the Mayo:

If you’re not a fan of mayo, you can swap it for Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangy twist. You can even mix half mayo and half yogurt for a balanced flavor.

For a Sweeter Version:

Add some grapes, apples, or dried cranberries for a sweet contrast to the savory chicken and creamy dressing.

Spice It Up:

If you like a little kick, add some chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix. A dash of hot sauce can also do the trick!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different protein besides chicken?

A1: Yes! You can easily swap the chicken for turkey, tuna, or even cooked shrimp if you prefer a different protein.

Q2: Can I make this dish without mayo?

A2: Absolutely! You can replace the mayo with Greek yogurt, sour cream, or even mashed avocado for a healthier alternative.

Q3: Can I add fruit to this chicken salad?

A3: Yes! For a slightly sweeter twist, add diced apples, grapes, or even dried cranberries. It adds a nice contrast to the savory flavors.

Q4: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

A4: Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just be sure to cook it thoroughly before shredding or dicing it for the salad.

Q5: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A5: Yes, chicken salad is perfect for making ahead! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Q6: Can I make this chicken salad without onions?

A6: Yes, you can leave out the onions if you prefer a milder flavor. You can also substitute with green onions or chives for a milder taste.

Q7: Can I use a store-bought rotisserie chicken?

A7: Definitely! A rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Just shred it and you’re good to go. It saves time without sacrificing flavor.

Q8: How long will this chicken salad keep in the fridge?

A8: It will keep for up to 3 days in the fridge. Just store it in an airtight container for the best freshness.

Q9: Can I use a different type of mustard?

A9: Yes, you can use yellow mustard, honey mustard, or even spicy brown mustard for a slightly different flavor. Dijon is just the classic choice.

Q10: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

A10: Yes, you can make it dairy-free by using a non-dairy mayo (like one made from avocado) and skipping the cheese if you decide to add it.

Conclusion

Classic Chicken Salad is the ultimate go-to recipe when you want something easy, delicious, and customizable. Whether you’re making it for a picnic, meal prep, or just a quick lunch, it’s always a hit. With its creamy texture, fresh ingredients, and endless ways to serve it, you can’t go wrong. So grab your chicken, mix up that dressing, and enjoy a bowl of pure comfort!

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