This Classic Chicken Salad is creamy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Made with tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a tangy, savory dressing, it’s versatile enough to be enjoyed in sandwiches, wraps, or on its own as a light and refreshing meal.
Ingredients
(Serves 4-6)
For the Salad:
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie or poached works well)
½ cup celery, finely chopped
½ cup red onion, finely diced
½ cup red or green grapes, halved (optional, for sweetness)
¼ cup toasted almonds or walnuts (optional, for crunch)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
½ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons Greek yogurt or sour cream (for added creaminess)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
If using raw chicken, poach 2 medium chicken breasts in salted water for about 15 minutes, or until fully cooked. Let cool before shredding or dicing.
2. Mix the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning as needed.
3. Assemble the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken, celery, red onion, grapes, nuts, and parsley.
Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
4. Chill and Serve
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve chilled as a sandwich filling, in wraps, on a bed of lettuce, or with crackers.
Tips for the Best Chicken Salad
Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly cooked chicken and crisp vegetables make all the difference in flavor and texture.
Customize: Add or swap ingredients like diced apples, dried cranberries, or chopped pickles for unique twists.
Adjust Consistency: For a lighter salad, use more Greek yogurt and less mayonnaise.
Serving Suggestions
Sandwiches: Layer the chicken salad between slices of crusty bread or in a croissant for a satisfying lunch.
Wraps: Roll it in a tortilla with fresh greens for a quick and portable meal.
Salad Bowl: Serve over a bed of mixed greens with sliced avocado for a low-carb option.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes if using pre-cooked chicken.
Versatile: Perfect for meal prep, picnics, or potlucks.
Customizable: Easy to adapt to your taste preferences.
Enjoy this timeless and delicious Classic Chicken Salad anytime you’re craving something simple yet satisfying!
