If you’re on the hunt for a delicious, fuss-free meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Classic Chicken Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. It features tender cooked chicken tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing with a perfect crunch of celery and a burst of fresh herbs. Whether you’re packing lunch for work or preparing a quick dinner, this recipe blends textures and flavors effortlessly. It’s a timeless dish that never goes out of style and is guaranteed to become one of your go-to favorites!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Classic Chicken Salad Recipe comes together with simple, wholesome ingredients that each play an essential role. From the creamy mayonnaise to the crisp celery and the fresh parsley, every component adds its unique touch to the final dish.
- 2 cups cooked chicken: Shredded or chopped, this is the hearty star that makes the salad satisfying.
- ½ cup mayonnaise: Provides the luscious creaminess that coats every bite.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tang and depth to the dressing.
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped: Brings a fresh crunch and brightens up the texture.
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped: Offers a sharp, slightly sweet bite that balances the creaminess.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: Infuses a pop of herbal freshness and color.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice: Adds brightness and lifts the flavors for a clean finish.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a subtle savory warmth without overpowering.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance all the other flavors.
- Optional: ¼ cup sliced almonds or halved grapes: These add an exciting crunch or juicy sweetness for a lovely contrast.
How to Make Classic Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
Start by combining the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl. Whisk them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This dressing is the flavor foundation, bringing tang, creaminess, and a touch of spice to every bite.
Step 2: Add the Chicken and Vegetables
Next, fold in the cooked chicken, finely chopped celery, red onion, and fresh parsley. Toss gently but thoroughly, ensuring every bit of chicken gets coated with the flavorful dressing and mingles with the crunchy and fresh elements.
Step 3: Incorporate Optional Add-ins
If you’re feeling adventurous or want even more texture, gently fold in sliced almonds or halved grapes. The almonds bring a nutty crunch that’s irresistible, and the grapes add bursts of juicy sweetness, making the salad vibrant and fun.
Step 4: Chill to Marry the Flavors
Cover your chicken salad and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This brief resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making the salad even more delicious when served.
How to Serve Classic Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of extra fresh parsley or sliced green onions on top just before serving brightens the presentation and adds an extra layer of freshness. Toasted almonds or a few whole grapes scattered on top can also serve as eye-catching, tasty garnishes.
Side Dishes
This Classic Chicken Salad Recipe pairs wonderfully with light sides—think crisp greens dressed in lemon vinaigrette, crunchy crudité, or even a handful of your favorite crunchy crackers. A fresh fruit salad or chilled soup also complements it beautifully, keeping the meal balanced and refreshing.
Creative Ways to Present
Mix things up by serving the chicken salad inside buttery croissants or stuffed into avocado halves for a low-carb option. Wrapping it in a crisp lettuce leaf is perfect for a fresh, handheld bite. For a more elegant touch, serve it atop endive leaves or alongside a colorful array of veggies on a platter for entertaining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where the classic chicken salad will keep fresh for up to 3 days. The flavors will even intensify overnight, so it’s perfect for next-day lunches or snacks.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh or chilled but not frozen. Freezing can alter the texture of the mayonnaise and vegetables, resulting in an undesirable watery consistency after thawing.
Reheating
Since this is a no-cook salad meant to be served cold, reheating is not recommended. Keep it chilled for the best texture and flavor experience.
FAQs
Can I use leftover chicken for the Classic Chicken Salad Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover cooked or rotisserie chicken works wonderfully and saves time, making this salad a quick and efficient meal option.
Is there a lighter alternative to mayonnaise?
Yes, you can substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt to lighten the salad without sacrificing any creaminess or flavor.
Can I add other vegetables to this chicken salad?
Definitely! Ingredients like chopped pickles, bell peppers, or shredded carrots can add interesting textures and flavors to the salad.
What is the best type of mustard to use?
Dijon mustard is ideal because it offers a balanced tang and complexity, but yellow or whole grain mustard work fine too if that’s what you have on hand.
How should I serve the Classic Chicken Salad Recipe for a picnic?
Serve it chilled in a sturdy container alongside sandwich bread or wraps, or pre-assemble sandwiches and keep them chilled until it’s time to eat for ultimate picnic convenience.
Final Thoughts
This Classic Chicken Salad Recipe is so much more than a simple salad—it’s a comforting, versatile dish that fits effortlessly into busy weeknights or relaxed weekend lunches. Its creamy texture, balanced flavors, and satisfying crunch make it a timeless favorite you’ll return to again and again. Give it a try—you might find it becomes your new signature dish!
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Classic Chicken Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad, Lunch
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This easy and delicious Chicken Salad Recipe combines tender cooked chicken with a creamy, tangy dressing made from mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Enhanced with fresh celery, red onion, parsley, and optional almonds or grapes for texture, this classic American salad is perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner. Ready in just 10 minutes with no cooking required, it can be served chilled on sandwiches, wraps, over greens, or with crackers.
Ingredients
Chicken Salad
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or chopped)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 celery stalk (finely chopped)
- ¼ cup red onion (finely chopped)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: ¼ cup sliced almonds or halved grapes for added texture
Instructions
- Prepare the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir the mixture until it is smooth and well blended.
- Add the Chicken and Vegetables: Add the shredded or chopped cooked chicken, finely chopped celery, red onion, and chopped parsley to the dressing. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the chicken salad and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed for enhanced flavor.
- Incorporate Optional Ingredients: If using, gently fold in the sliced almonds or halved grapes to add extra texture and sweetness to the salad.
- Chill Before Serving: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Serve the chicken salad chilled on sandwiches, in wraps, over greens, or alongside crackers for a tasty meal or snack.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken works great for this recipe and saves preparation time.
- For a lighter version, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Add chopped pickles or relish for an extra tangy flavor.
