Classic Chicken Salad is a creamy, flavorful, and refreshing dish made with tender shredded chicken, crunchy celery, and a rich, tangy dressing. Perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or served over a bed of lettuce, this timeless recipe is quick to prepare and ideal for meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Made with simple ingredients in just minutes.
- Versatile: Serve it on sandwiches, in lettuce wraps, or as a dip with crackers.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better after chilling, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Customizable: Add nuts, fruits, or extra seasonings to suit your taste.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- Mayonnaise
- Dijon mustard
- Celery (chopped)
- Red onion (finely diced)
- Lemon juice
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh parsley or dill (optional)
Directions
- Prepare the Chicken: Shred or dice cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Mix the Dressing: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the chopped celery, red onion, and chicken to the dressing. Stir well.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for the flavors to meld. Serve cold on sandwiches, in wraps, or over lettuce.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
Variations
- Crunchy Additions: Mix in chopped almonds, walnuts, or pecans for extra texture.
- Sweet Twist: Add sliced grapes, dried cranberries, or diced apples.
- Lighter Option: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a healthier version.
- Herbaceous Flavor: Stir in fresh dill, basil, or tarragon for added depth.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the mayo-based dressing may separate.
- Reheating: Best served cold, but you can warm the chicken before mixing if preferred.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option.
How can I make this chicken salad healthier?
Use Greek yogurt or a light mayo substitute for fewer calories.
What’s the best way to serve chicken salad?
It’s great in sandwiches, lettuce wraps, or on top of a fresh salad.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! The flavors develop even more after a few hours in the fridge.
What kind of chicken works best?
Poached, baked, or rotisserie chicken works well—just make sure it’s fully cooked and tender.
Can I make this without mayo?
Yes! Try using avocado, sour cream, or Greek yogurt instead.
How do I prevent my chicken salad from being watery?
Make sure to drain excess moisture from the chicken and pat celery dry before mixing.
Can I add eggs to chicken salad?
Yes! Chopped hard-boiled eggs add protein and a creamy texture.
How do I make it spicier?
Add a dash of hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños.
Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, but fresh or rotisserie chicken provides better texture and flavor.
Conclusion
Classic Chicken Salad is a simple, delicious, and versatile dish that never goes out of style. Whether you enjoy it in a sandwich, on crackers, or in a lettuce wrap, this easy-to-make recipe is perfect for lunch, meal prep, or a quick snack. Try different variations to make it your own and enjoy a timeless favorite!
Print
Classic Chicken Salad
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes (plus optional chilling time)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A creamy and flavorful chicken salad made with tender chicken, crunchy celery, and a touch of mayo. Great for lunch, picnics, or meal prep!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup sweet or dill pickles, finely chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds or chopped pecans (optional, for crunch)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken – If not already cooked, poach or bake chicken until fully cooked, then shred or dice it.
- Mix the Dressing – In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Combine Everything – Add chicken, celery, red onion, pickles (if using), nuts (if using), and parsley to the bowl. Stir until well combined.
- Chill & Serve – Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve on sandwiches, wraps, lettuce cups, or with crackers.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add ½ tsp curry powder or a dash of hot sauce.
- Swap out mayo for avocado mayo or Greek yogurt for a healthier version.
- Serve in croissants for a fancy touch or on whole-grain bread for a hearty meal.
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