Chicken Salad Recipe
This classic chicken salad recipe is creamy, flavorful, and loaded with tender chicken, crisp celery, fresh herbs, and a zesty dressing. Perfect for sandwiches, wraps, lettuce cups, or meal prep—this easy dish is a must-have for quick lunches and light dinners.
Ingredients
Base:
- 2 ½ cups cooked chicken shredded or diced
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard optional
- 2 ribs celery finely chopped
- ¼ cup red onion or green onions finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or dill
- Juice of ½ a lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional Add-ins choose based on your preference:
- ¼ cup dried cranberries or halved grapes
- ¼ cup toasted chopped almonds or pecans
- 1 apple diced
- 1 hard-boiled egg finely chopped
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder or onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Use pre-cooked chicken (rotisserie, poached, or roasted).
- If poaching, simmer chicken in water or broth with aromatics until cooked through. Let it cool, then shred or dice.
Step 2: Chop the Mix-Ins
- Finely chop celery, onion, and any fruits, nuts, or herbs you’re using.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and any spices.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
- Add chopped chicken and mix-ins to the dressing.
- Gently fold until fully coated.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled in sandwiches, wraps, lettuce cups, or on greens.
Notes
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Not freezer-friendly.
- Lighten it Up: Use only Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a healthier version.
- Extra Crunch: Add toasted nuts just before serving to keep them crispy.
- Meal Prep Tip: Mix the dressing and keep it separate from the chicken until ready to serve for fresher texture.
- Low-Carb Serving Ideas: Serve in lettuce cups or avocado halves.