Chicken Salad Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chicken salad is easy to make, customizable, and perfect for meal prep. The tender chicken provides a lean source of protein, while the fresh veggies add crunch and flavor. The creamy dressing brings everything together, making each bite satisfying. You can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste, whether you prefer adding fruits like grapes or nuts like almonds for extra texture. It’s a versatile dish that works for any occasion and can be served in various ways!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced

• 1/2 cup celery, chopped

• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped

• 1/2 cup grapes, halved (optional)

• 1/4 cup almonds or walnuts, chopped (optional)

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh herbs like parsley or dill for garnish (optional)

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

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, celery, red onion, grapes (if using), and nuts (if using).

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

3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.

4. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice, if needed.

5. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve immediately. Alternatively, refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Total time: 10 minutes (plus optional chilling time)

Variations

• For extra sweetness, add diced apples or dried cranberries.

• Add a handful of chopped cucumber or bell peppers for additional crunch.

• For a healthier version, swap half of the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt.

• Add a little curry powder to the dressing for a unique twist.

• You can also try using chicken thighs instead of breast for a richer flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Store any leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Chicken salad is best served cold, so it’s ideal for making ahead and enjoying as a quick lunch or dinner. It doesn’t need to be reheated.

FAQs

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Just remove the skin and bones, then shred the meat and add it to the salad.

2. Can I make chicken salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare chicken salad ahead of time. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and the flavors will develop as it sits.

3. Can I make chicken salad without mayonnaise?

Yes, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt, sour cream, or even avocado for a different creamy base.

4. Can I add other vegetables to chicken salad?

Yes, you can add vegetables like cucumber, bell peppers, or carrots for extra crunch and freshness.

5. How can I make the chicken salad spicier?

To add some spice, mix in a little sriracha, hot sauce, or chopped jalapeños into the dressing.

6. Can I add fruit to my chicken salad?

Yes! Grapes, apples, or dried cranberries are excellent additions for a sweet contrast to the savory chicken and creamy dressing.

7. Can I use other nuts in the salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap the almonds or walnuts for pecans, cashews, or sunflower seeds, depending on what you like.

8. How can I serve chicken salad?

Chicken salad can be served in many ways: as a sandwich, on a bed of lettuce, in a wrap, or with crackers or pita bread.

9. Can I make this salad dairy-free?

Yes, to make the chicken salad dairy-free, use dairy-free mayo or avocado in place of regular mayonnaise.

10. How do I prevent the chicken salad from getting soggy?

To avoid sogginess, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve, especially if you’re using ingredients like grapes or apples. You can also add the nuts just before serving to maintain their crunch.

Conclusion

Chicken salad is a quick, healthy, and versatile meal that can be customized to suit your tastes. Whether you like it creamy or light, sweet or savory, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. It’s easy to prepare, packed with protein, and full of vibrant flavors that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish, side dish, or snack, this chicken salad is always a winner!