Classic Chicken Salad Recipe

There’s something delightfully nostalgic about whipping up this chicken salad—it’s like a culinary hug with a modern twist, perfectly balancing creamy and crunchy vibes, and it’s ready to level up your lunch game.

I love creating recipes that are simple and comforting and that bring people together at the table. My Classic Chicken Salad is no exception.

It’s a salad with tender diced chicken and a creamy dressing of mayonnaise, lemon juice, and just a touch of Dijon mustard. I love the salad’s crunchy bits of chopped celery and red onion, and sometimes I include the optional ingredient of fresh parsley, which couldn’t be simpler to throw into the food processor and whir around a few times.

Classic Chicken Salad Recipe Ingredients

• Cooked chicken: Rich in protein for muscle growth and repair.
• Mayonnaise: Adds creamy texture with healthy fats.
• Celery: Provides crunch and is low in calories.
• Red onion: Offers a sharp flavor and antioxidants.
• Fresh parsley: Enhances color and adds vitamins A and C.
• Lemon juice: Adds a refreshing, zesty flavor and vitamin C.
• Dijon mustard: Offers a tangy taste with minimal calories.
• Grapes: Optional sweetness and a dose of antioxidants.
• Sliced almonds: Optional crunch and healthy fats if desired.

Classic Chicken Salad Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup celery, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Optional: 1/4 cup grapes, halved
• Optional: 1/4 cup sliced almonds or pecans

How to Make this Classic Chicken Salad Recipe

1. In a big mixing bowl, mix together the cooked chicken that’s been cut up, mayonnaise, celery that’s been cut up, and red onion that’s been chopped.

2. Stir in the freshly minced parsley and mix gently to distribute evenly throughout the chicken mixture.

3. Add the Dijon mustard and the lemon juice. Stir until all the ingredients are well mixed.

4. Add salt and black pepper to taste, and stir the chicken salad once more to make sure that the seasoning is evenly dispersed throughout.

5. When using, gently fold in the halved grapes for a touch of sweetness; be careful not to crush them.

6. For a crunchy texture, add the sliced almonds or pecans and mix them lightly so they’re incorporated throughout the salad.

7. Sample the chicken salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary; add more salt or pepper to suit your tastes.

8. Ensure the mixing bowl is completely covered with absorbent plastic wrap or place the salad in an airtight container before storing. Store the salad in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

9. Refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes so the flavors meld.

10. Offer the traditional chicken salad on a bed of lettuce, in a sandwich, or alongside some crackers for a tasty meal or snack.

Classic Chicken Salad Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Large mixing bowl
2. Measuring cups
3. Measuring spoons
4. Knife
5. Cutting board
6. Spoon or spatula for mixing
7. Airtight container or plastic wrap for storage

FAQ

• Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe? Yes, rotisserie chicken works great and adds a nice flavor. Just make sure to remove the skin and bones before dicing.
• How long can I store the chicken salad in the fridge? Store the chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• What can I use instead of mayonnaise? You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a combination of yogurt and mayonnaise for a lighter version.
• Can I add other vegetables to this salad? Absolutely! Feel free to add ingredients like diced bell peppers, cucumbers, or even shredded carrots for extra crunch and color.
• Is it possible to make this salad in advance? Yes, making it a few hours ahead allows the flavors to meld together nicely. Just give it a good stir before serving.
• What should I serve with chicken salad? Chicken salad is versatile. Serve it on a bed of lettuce, in a sandwich, or with crackers as a snack.
• Are there any low-carb options for serving? For a low-carb option, serve the chicken salad in lettuce wraps or enjoy it on its own.

Classic Chicken Salad Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Mayonnaise: For a healthier option, try Greek yogurt or sour cream.
Celery: Replace with minced cucumber or diced bell pepper for a different, crunchy texture.
Red onion: Substitute green onions or shallots for a milder taste.
Fresh parsley: Substitute fresh cilantro or dill for a different herbal flavor.
Lime juice: Use in the same amount to substitute for lemon juice, or try apple cider vinegar. Its milder flavor makes it a good choice.

Pro Tips

1. Enhance Flavor Depth Toast the sliced almonds or pecans lightly in a skillet before adding them to the salad. Toasting nuts releases their natural oils, enhancing their flavor and adding a richer, nutty taste to your dish.

2. Maximize Freshness Use freshly squeezed lemon juice rather than bottled juice for a brighter, more vibrant flavor. Fresh lemon juice will add a zesty kick that enhances the overall taste greatly.

3. Variety in Texture For an extra crunch, consider adding a small amount of diced apple or cucumber to the salad. This will not only add texture but also a slight sweetness that pairs well with the savory ingredients.

4. Make it Creamier For a richer, creamier texture, blend half of the mayonnaise with a small portion of Greek yogurt. This will also add a bit of tanginess and can lighten the caloric load if needed.

5. Chill for Best Results Letting the chicken salad sit in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight can help the flavors meld more thoroughly, making for a more cohesive, flavorful dish when served.