The Best Chicken Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Best Chicken Salad is a creamy, flavorful, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for lunches, picnics, or light dinners. Made with tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a creamy dressing, this classic salad is both comforting and refreshing. It’s easy to customize and comes together quickly, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

cooked chicken breast (shredded or diced)mayonnaisecelery (finely chopped)red onion (finely chopped)Dijon mustardlemon juicefresh dill or parsley (chopped)salt and pepper to tasteoptional: grapes or dried cranberries, chopped apples, sliced almonds

directions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, celery, and red onion.

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and herbs until smooth.

Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly.

If using, fold in grapes, cranberries, apples, or almonds for added texture and flavor.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Serve chilled on its own, in sandwiches, lettuce wraps, or over greens.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesChilling time: 30 minutesTotal time: 45 minutes

Variations

Swap mayo with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and added flavor.

Add a pinch of curry powder for a spiced twist.

Include hard-boiled eggs for extra protein and texture.

Replace celery with cucumber for a milder crunch.

storage/reheating

Store chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Do not freeze, as the texture of the dressing may separate upon thawing.Best enjoyed cold; do not reheat.

FAQs

Can I use canned chicken?

Yes, just be sure to drain it well and shred it before mixing.

What type of chicken works best?

Cooked, shredded or diced chicken breast is ideal, but thighs or rotisserie chicken work well too.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely! It tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge.

Is chicken salad keto-friendly?

Yes, if made without fruit and using low-carb mayo, it fits well into a keto diet.

Can I add cheese?

Yes, small cubes of cheddar or crumbled feta make tasty additions.

Is it safe to pack for lunch?

Yes, as long as it’s kept chilled with an ice pack or in a cooler.

How can I make it dairy-free?

Use dairy-free mayo and avoid cheese or yogurt-based variations.

Can I serve this warm?

Chicken salad is traditionally served cold, but it can be warmed slightly if preferred—just don’t overheat the mayo.

How do I prevent it from being watery?

Dry the chicken well and use minimal juicy ingredients like watery fruits.

What bread works best for sandwiches?

Croissants, sourdough, or multigrain bread all pair well.

Conclusion

The Best Chicken Salad is a versatile, delicious, and simple recipe that never goes out of style. Whether you serve it as a sandwich, in a wrap, or as a light entrée, its combination of creamy dressing and fresh ingredients makes it a dependable crowd-pleaser. Perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or a quick lunch, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

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