Chicken salad is a timeless and versatile dish that can easily be a satisfying lunch or a light dinner. This classic version combines tender, shredded chicken with a creamy dressing and fresh vegetables for a dish that’s both refreshing and hearty. Whether you’re preparing it for a family picnic, a gathering with friends, or just to enjoy on your own, this chicken salad brings comfort and flavor in every bite.

The creamy mayo base, combined with crunch from celery and other veggies, makes it an irresistible choice for any occasion. You can serve it on a bed of leafy greens, stuffed in a sandwich, or even in a wrap. It’s simple yet flavorful, a true crowd-pleaser that never goes out of style.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Salad Recipe

This chicken salad is perfect for anyone looking for a balanced and satisfying meal that’s also quick and easy to make. With a deliciously creamy texture and the crunch of fresh veggies, it’s a delight for the taste buds. Plus, it’s customizable! You can add or swap ingredients to suit your preferences. Whether you like your chicken salad with fruit, nuts, or just the basics, this recipe has you covered.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make a classic chicken salad, having the right tools is key to a smooth and efficient cooking process. Here are the essential tools you’ll need:

Sharp Knife – A sharp knife is essential for chopping your veggies and cutting the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. It makes the process quicker and ensures clean cuts.
Cutting Board – This is important to protect your countertop while chopping veggies and chicken. A large, sturdy board provides ample space for all your prep work.
Mixing Bowl – A large mixing bowl is crucial for combining all the ingredients together. Choose a bowl that can comfortably hold everything without making a mess.
Measuring Cups & Spoons – These will help you get the right balance of ingredients for the dressing, ensuring your salad has the perfect flavor and consistency.
Whisk or Spoon – You’ll need a whisk to blend the dressing ingredients smoothly or a spoon to mix everything together if you prefer.
Serving Plate or Sandwich Rolls – If you’re serving the salad on a bed of lettuce or in sandwich rolls, make sure you have an appropriate serving plate or fresh sandwich buns.

These tools will help ensure the prep is efficient and organized, allowing you to enjoy your chicken salad without any hassle.

Preparation Tips

Cook the Chicken Ahead of Time: If you’re short on time, use leftover chicken from a previous meal or rotisserie chicken. This saves time and still gives you that tender, flavorful chicken.
Chill Before Serving: For the best flavor, chill the chicken salad in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and ensures a cool, refreshing dish.
Taste and Adjust: Chicken salad is very customizable. Don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning to your taste. Add a little more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
Add Fresh Herbs: For an added burst of flavor, consider tossing in fresh herbs like dill or parsley. They will brighten the dish and add a fresh element to the creamy texture.

Ingredients for this Chicken Salad Recipe

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

2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced) – For the best flavor, use chicken breast or rotisserie chicken.
1/2 cup mayonnaise – This creates the creamy base for the salad.
1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt – Adds a tangy flavor and helps balance the richness of the mayo.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – For a subtle kick and extra depth of flavor.
1 tablespoon lemon juice – Brightens up the salad and adds a fresh zing.
1/2 cup celery (chopped) – Gives the salad a nice crunch and refreshing flavor.
1/4 cup red onion (finely chopped) – Adds a bit of sharpness that complements the creamy mayo.
1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped) – Adds freshness and a pop of color.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the overall flavor with a savory touch.
Salt and pepper (to taste) – Seasoning to bring all the flavors together.
1/2 cup grape tomatoes (optional, halved) – For a bit of sweetness and color.
Lettuce leaves (for serving, optional) – A fresh bed to serve the salad on.
Sandwich rolls or bread (optional) – For making chicken salad sandwiches.

These ingredients will create a balanced and flavorful chicken salad, perfect for a light meal or as part of a larger spread. You can adjust the quantity or swap out ingredients based on your preferences!

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Start by cooking your chicken. If you’re using fresh chicken breasts, you can either boil, bake, or grill them. To boil, place the chicken in a pot of water, bring it to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until fully cooked. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, simply shred it into bite-sized pieces and move to the next step.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

While your chicken is cooling, prepare the vegetables. Chop the celery, dice the red onion, and halve the grape tomatoes (if using). Fresh parsley should be chopped finely. Set everything aside in small bowls for easy access when mixing the salad.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use a whisk or spoon to stir everything together until smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference. If you like a bit more tang, add extra mustard or lemon juice.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients

Now that your chicken and veggies are prepared, it’s time to bring everything together. Add the shredded chicken, chopped vegetables, and fresh parsley into the mixing bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything until evenly coated.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

For the best flavor, refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the ingredients to meld. Once chilled, serve it on a bed of lettuce, in a sandwich roll, or with crackers for a delightful light meal.

Notes

Customize It: This chicken salad recipe is very versatile. You can add ingredients like diced apples, grapes, or even nuts like almonds or walnuts for a twist on the traditional. It’s all about adjusting to your taste!
Use Leftover Chicken: Using leftover roasted or rotisserie chicken can save time and add a nice depth of flavor to your salad. It’s a great option for meal prep or a quick weeknight meal.
Make It Lighter: If you’re looking to reduce the calories, you can substitute the mayonnaise for a lighter version or use a combination of Greek yogurt and low-fat sour cream.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Not Seasoning Enough: Don’t forget to taste and season your chicken salad with enough salt and pepper. A little extra seasoning can make a huge difference in flavor!
Overcooking the Chicken: Be careful not to overcook the chicken when boiling or grilling. Overcooked chicken can be dry and tough, which will affect the overall texture of the salad.
Skipping the Chill Time: While you can technically eat the chicken salad right away, letting it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavors and creates a better texture.
Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables, especially the parsley, can really elevate the flavor of the salad. Using older or wilted veggies will lessen the overall freshness.
Not Mixing Gently: When tossing everything together, be gentle. Over-mixing can break down the chicken into mush and make the salad watery. Just a few folds to combine will do!

What to Serve with Classic Chicken Salad?

Chicken salad is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of sides to make the meal even more satisfying. Here are some great options:

8 Recommendations for Pairing with Chicken Salad

Crispy Bread or Sandwich Rolls – A soft sandwich roll or toasted bread is perfect for serving the chicken salad in a sandwich or as a side.
Leafy Green Salad – Serve the chicken salad on a bed of crisp lettuce or mixed greens for an extra burst of freshness.
Crusty Croissants – These buttery, flaky croissants add a touch of elegance to your meal when paired with the chicken salad.
Fresh Veggies & Dip – A side of sliced cucumbers, carrots, and bell peppers with a creamy dip adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the salad.
Pickles or Olives – Tangy pickles or olives are a great complement to the creamy chicken salad and add a nice briny flavor.
Potato Chips – For some crunch and saltiness, potato chips are a fantastic side dish that pairs perfectly with the creamy texture of chicken salad.
Fruit Salad – A light and sweet fruit salad made with seasonal fruits can balance out the savory flavors of the chicken salad.
Rice Pilaf or Quinoa – If you’re looking for a more filling side, a light rice pilaf or quinoa can complement the chicken salad while keeping the meal light and balanced.

These sides can elevate the meal and offer a variety of flavors and textures that complement the creamy, savory goodness of the chicken salad!

Storage Instructions

Chicken salad can be stored for later use, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers. Here’s how to store it properly:

Refrigeration: Store your chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3 to 4 days. Be sure to keep it chilled to maintain freshness and prevent any bacterial growth.
Avoid Freezing: Chicken salad is not ideal for freezing due to the mayonnaise and yogurt in the dressing. Freezing may cause the dressing to separate and the texture to become watery once thawed.
Separate the Dressing: If you plan on keeping the chicken salad for several days, consider storing the dressing separately. This helps maintain the salad’s texture and flavor.

Estimated Nutrition

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutrition for one serving (about 1 cup) of classic chicken salad:

Calories: 300-350 kcal
Protein: 25-30g
Carbohydrates: 5-7g
Fat: 20-25g (mostly from the mayo and yogurt)
Fiber: 1-2g
Sodium: 350-400mg

These values may vary depending on specific ingredients used (like low-fat mayo or yogurt). It’s a good, protein-packed dish with a moderate amount of healthy fats.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make chicken salad without mayo?

Yes, you can substitute mayo with Greek yogurt for a lighter, healthier version. Some people also use avocado or a combination of olive oil and mustard for a different take.

2. How long does chicken salad last in the fridge?

Chicken salad will stay fresh in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. It’s best to consume it within this timeframe for optimal flavor and safety.

3. Can I add fruit to my chicken salad?

Absolutely! Fruits like grapes, apples, or dried cranberries can add a touch of sweetness and texture to your chicken salad, giving it a delicious twist.

4. How do I cook chicken for chicken salad?

You can bake, grill, or boil the chicken. For boiling, cook the chicken in water for 15-20 minutes until fully cooked. Grilling or baking adds a smoky flavor, but boiling keeps the chicken tender and juicy.

5. Can I make chicken salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare chicken salad a day or two in advance. Just store it in the fridge, and make sure to stir it gently before serving to recombine the ingredients.

6. What type of chicken works best for chicken salad?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the most commonly used, as they’re easy to cook and shred. You can also use rotisserie chicken for convenience.

7. Can I freeze chicken salad?

Freezing is not recommended for chicken salad because the creamy dressing can separate and become watery upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of making it.

8. What can I serve with chicken salad?

Chicken salad pairs well with fresh vegetables, crackers, sandwich rolls, or a bed of leafy greens. You can also serve it with a side of fruit salad or chips for a satisfying meal.

Conclusion

Chicken salad is a timeless and versatile dish that can easily be made your own. Whether served as a sandwich, wrap, or on a bed of greens, it offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe is a must-try for anyone craving a light, delicious, and satisfying meal. Customize it to your taste with different veggies, fruits, or seasonings, and enjoy this delicious classic again and again!