Classic Chicken Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This chicken salad stands out for its simplicity and bold flavor. It uses common pantry ingredients and requires no cooking, making it ideal for meal prep or a last-minute lunch. The crisp vegetables and zesty Dijon mustard add great contrast to the creamy texture, ensuring every bite is refreshing and flavorful. It’s also versatile, easily adapted to your taste or dietary needs.

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ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced

• 1 cup mayonnaise

• ½ cup diced celery, ¼" dice

• ⅓ cup diced red onion or shallots, ⅛" dice

• 2 tablespoons sliced green onions or chives

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 2 teaspoons lemon juice

• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

directions

1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, mayonnaise, celery, red onion, green onions, mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

2. Stir well until everything is evenly mixed and the salad reaches your desired consistency.

3. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

4. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator until ready to eat.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 8 servings, with each serving being approximately ½ cup. The prep time is 15 minutes, with no cooking required, making the total time just 15 minutes.

Variations

• Add fruit: Try grapes, apple chunks, or dried cranberries for a sweet twist.

• Nutty crunch: Walnuts, almonds, or pecans add extra texture.

• Spicy kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños.

• Greek-style: Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt and add cucumber and dill.

• Low-carb: Serve over lettuce leaves instead of bread.

storage/reheating

Store leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This dish is best served cold. Reheating is not recommended, as the mayonnaise-based dressing may separate.

FAQs

How long does chicken salad last in the fridge?

Chicken salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze chicken salad?

It’s not recommended to freeze chicken salad due to the mayonnaise, which can separate when thawed.

What type of chicken works best?

Cooked shredded or diced chicken breast or thigh works best. Rotisserie chicken is also a great shortcut.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, making it ahead allows flavors to meld. Just store it in the fridge until ready to serve.

How do I keep it from being watery?

Ensure all ingredients, especially celery and onions, are well-drained and patted dry before mixing.

Is there a substitute for mayonnaise?

Yes, you can use Greek yogurt or mashed avocado for a healthier alternative.

Can I add eggs to this recipe?

Absolutely, chopped hard-boiled eggs make a great addition to chicken salad.

How can I make it more filling?

Serve it in a wrap, sandwich, or stuffed into an avocado or baked potato for a more substantial meal.

Is this chicken salad gluten-free?

Yes, the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels on condiments to be sure.

What’s the best way to serve chicken salad?

Serve it on toast, in a croissant, over greens, or with crackers for a variety of options.

Conclusion

This classic chicken salad is a simple yet delicious dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or whipping up a quick lunch, it delivers both flavor and versatility. With just a few ingredients and no cooking required, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.