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
Scale
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.
