This Classic Chicken Salad is a tasty mix of tender chicken, crunchy celery, and creamy mayo. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a picnic treat!
Sometimes, I play with different toppings like grapes or nuts. It’s so fun to create your version! I like mine on a bed of lettuce with some crispy crackers on the side.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded or diced chicken is the star of this salad. You can use leftover chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even canned chicken if you’re in a hurry. For a healthier option, grilled chicken works well too!
Mayonnaise: Traditional chicken salad often uses mayonnaise for creaminess. You can substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter version, or try avocado for a different taste. I personally like to mix half mayo and half yogurt for a creamy and tangy flavor.
Dijon Mustard: This adds a pleasant tang. If you don’t have Dijon, regular mustard or even honey mustard can work too, depending on how sweet you want your salad. I find that a touch of honey mustard gives it a lovely sweetness.
Celery and Red Onion: Both add crunch and flavor. If you’re not a fan of celery, you could swap it for diced apples for a hint of sweetness. For the onion, green onions or shallots offer a milder taste.
Grapes and Almonds: These are optional but recommended for added sweetness and crunch. If you want to skip the grapes, try diced apples or dried cranberries. For nuts, walnuts or pecans would also add a nice texture.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor in Chicken Salad?
To enhance the flavor of your chicken salad, it’s key to mix everything well and allow it to chill. This lets the flavors blend together beautifully. Here’s how to do it:
- Combine the chicken, mayonnaise, mustard, celery, and onion in a large bowl.
- Mix everything until well-combined, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated.
- If you’re adding grapes and almonds, fold them in gently to keep their texture.
- Season with salt and pepper, and taste. Adjust as needed!
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the flavors develop and makes for a refreshing meal.
Serving on lettuce adds a nice crispness too! Enjoy the flavors coming together.
How to Make Classic Chicken Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup grapes, halved (optional)
- 1/4 cup almonds, sliced (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Lettuce leaves
- Slices of tomato and cucumber for garnish
- Bread or croissants (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then requires at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator to let the flavors blend together. In total, you’ll spend around 40 minutes, including chilling time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Ingredients:
Start by taking a large mixing bowl. Add in the shredded or diced cooked chicken, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, finely chopped celery, and red onion. Use a spoon to stir everything together until it looks well-mixed and creamy.
2. Adding Optional Ingredients:
If you decided to use grapes and almonds, now’s the time to add them to the mixture. They’ll give your chicken salad a lovely crunch and a touch of sweetness. Gently fold everything together with your spoon to combine well.
3. Seasoning:
Take a moment to taste your chicken salad. Add a sprinkle of salt and pepper to suit your taste preferences. Give it another stir to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the salad.
4. Chilling the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes. This step is important because it allows the flavors to meld, making every bite delicious!
5. Serving the Salad:
When you’re ready to serve, take the chicken salad out of the fridge. Arrange some fresh lettuce leaves on a plate to create a nice bed for the salad. Spoon the chicken salad onto the lettuce and add tomato and cucumber slices on top for a pretty garnish. If you like, you can serve it with bread or croissants on the side for a satisfying meal.
Enjoy your homemade Classic Chicken Salad!
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great option as it’s flavorful and saves time. Just shred or dice the chicken once it’s cool enough to handle, and follow the rest of the recipe as is. It’s a fantastic shortcut!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, you can use Greek yogurt or a mixture of Greek yogurt and mayonnaise for a lighter version. For a dairy-free option, try using avocado or a vegan mayo substitute. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly!
How Long Does Chicken Salad Last in the Fridge?
Your chicken salad will last up to 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge. If you notice any changes in smell or texture, it’s best to err on the side of caution and discard it.
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your chicken salad by adding diced apples, chopped walnuts, or even herbs like dill or parsley. Just remember to adjust the seasoning accordingly if you add more ingredients!
