If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside, this Classic Chicken Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a timeless, crowd-pleasing favorite that combines tender chicken with crisp veggies and a creamy, tangy dressing. Whether you’re packing lunches, throwing together a quick dinner, or prepping for a picnic, this salad’s simplicity and freshness will have you coming back for more. Each bite bursts with comforting flavors and satisfying textures that make it a true staple in any kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just a handful of ingredients, this recipe stays simple yet flavorful. Each component plays a key role, from the creamy mayonnaise that binds everything beautifully to the crunchy celery and punchy red onion that add fresh texture and color.
- 4 cups cooked chicken: Use shredded or diced for the perfect bite-sized pieces that soak up all the dressing.
- 1 cup mayonnaise: The creamy base that makes the salad irresistibly smooth and flavorful.
- ½ cup diced celery: Adds a crisp contrast and refreshing crunch.
- ⅓ cup diced red onion or shallots: Offers a mild sharpness and a pop of color.
- 2 tablespoons sliced green onions or chives: Brings a subtle oniony freshness that brightens every forkful.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds just the right tang and depth to the dressing.
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice: Gives a zesty lift, balancing the creaminess perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle hint of warmth.
How to Make Classic Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Ingredients
Start by placing your cooked chicken in a large bowl—whether shredded or diced, it’s the star of the show. Then add the creamy mayonnaise, crisp celery, sharp red onion, and the fresh green onions or chives right on top. The textures and flavors are already coming together beautifully here.
Step 2: Add the Flavors
Next, stir in the Dijon mustard and freshly squeezed lemon juice to brighten the whole mixture. Sprinkle in the kosher salt and black pepper to season. Mix everything thoroughly, making sure each piece of chicken is well coated and the veggies are evenly spread out, giving you that perfect balance in every bite. Adjust the seasoning if needed—you’re the chef!
Step 3: Chill or Serve
While you can serve this salad immediately, letting it chill in the fridge for a little while really helps the flavors meld and develop. Cover with plastic wrap or pop it in an airtight container, and it’ll be ready when you are. The creaminess deepens, and the tangy bits snap perfectly against the tender chicken.
How to Serve Classic Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Consider topping your chicken salad with a sprinkle of extra sliced green onions or fresh chives to amp up the color and flavor. A few whole celery leaves or a dash of paprika can also add a lovely visual touch and a hint of extra appetizing aroma.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs exceptionally well with crisp lettuce leaves or fresh bread slices for sandwiches. You might also enjoy it alongside crunchy crackers, a bowl of soup, or a fresh green salad to round out your meal and keep things light yet satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Classic Chicken Salad Recipe into a delightful appetizer by serving it in small lettuce cups or atop cucumber slices for a refreshing bite. You could also stuff it into pita pockets or arrange it on toasted baguette slices for an elegant party spread. These creative presentations make it fun and versatile, perfect for any occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your chicken salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep or quick snacks during busy days. Just give it a gentle stir before serving to refresh the texture.
Freezing
Because of the mayonnaise and fresh vegetables, freezing this Classic Chicken Salad Recipe is not recommended. The texture and flavor can become compromised, making it less enjoyable when thawed.
Reheating
This dish is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature—there’s no need to reheat. The creamy dressing and crisp veggies taste freshest when chilled, maintaining the wonderful contrast that makes this salad so special.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a perfect shortcut that adds wonderful flavor and convenience to your Classic Chicken Salad Recipe without sacrificing quality.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
You can swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or a mix of Greek yogurt and mayonnaise for a lighter version, which will still give that creamy texture with a bit more tang.
Can I add other ingredients to the chicken salad?
Definitely. Some people love adding grapes, chopped apples, nuts like pecans or walnuts, or even dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness and extra texture. Just remember to keep the balance of flavors harmonious.
How long does this chicken salad last in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container, the salad stays fresh for up to three days. Beyond that, the vegetables may lose their crispness, and the flavors might dull.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This Classic Chicken Salad Recipe is fantastic for meal prepping. It’s quick to make, keeps well, and provides a protein-packed option for lunches or light dinners throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly comforting and satisfying about the Classic Chicken Salad Recipe that makes it a timeless gem in any kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this salad delivers a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that always hits the spot. So grab your ingredients, whip it up, and enjoy a dish that’s as easy as it is delicious—your taste buds will thank you!
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Classic Chicken Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Classic Chicken Salad is a quick and delicious recipe perfect for a light lunch or a versatile sandwich filling. Featuring tender cooked chicken mixed with creamy mayonnaise, fresh celery, red onion, and a hint of tangy Dijon mustard and lemon juice, it offers a balanced flavor and a satisfying crunch. Ready in just 15 minutes, this salad can be enjoyed immediately or chilled for deeper flavors.
Ingredients
Chicken Salad Ingredients
- 4 cups (454 g) cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup (240 ml) mayonnaise
- ½ cup (74 g) diced celery, ¼” dice
- ⅓ cup (42 g) diced red onion or shallots, ⅛” dice
- 2 tablespoons (8 g) sliced green onions or chives
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons (10 ml) lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon (3 g) kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Make the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, mayonnaise, celery, red onion, green onions, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly to ensure the chicken is evenly coated and the vegetables are well distributed. Mix until you reach your desired consistency.
- To Serve: Taste the chicken salad and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve it immediately on bread, lettuce, or your preferred base. Alternatively, cover and refrigerate until ready to use to let the flavors meld and deepen.
Notes
- For the best texture, use freshly cooked chicken that has been cooled.
- Adjust mayonnaise quantity to make the salad creamier or lighter as desired.
- For added zest, consider including a pinch of paprika or fresh herbs like dill or parsley.
- This salad keeps well refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- Serve on toasted bread for crunch or inside lettuce cups for a low-carb option.
