If you are searching for a wonderfully satisfying and easy-to-make meal, this Classic Chicken Salad Recipe is a true gem that never fails to impress. Bursting with creamy, tangy, and fresh flavors, this salad combines tender shredded chicken with crisp veggies and a zesty dressing, creating the perfect harmony of taste and texture. Whether you want a quick lunch, a picnic treat, or a light dinner, this recipe brings both comfort and class to your table with minimal effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Classic Chicken Salad Recipe shines due to its simple, carefully chosen ingredients that come together to deliver a refreshing and flavorful dish. Each component has a special role—from providing creaminess and crunch to adding bright, savory notes that perfectly balance the chicken’s mild flavor.
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced: The star of the dish, tender chicken adds protein and a hearty base.
- 1 cup mayonnaise: Provides rich creaminess and binds all the ingredients together beautifully.
- ½ cup diced celery: Adds a delightful crunch and fresh earthiness.
- ⅓ cup diced red onion or shallots: Brings a subtle bite with hints of sweetness and sharpness.
- 2 tablespoons sliced green onions or chives: Infuses a mild onion flavor that keeps the salad lively without overpowering.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy kick and depth of flavor.
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice: Offers a bright citrus lift that balances the mayo’s richness.
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all other flavors perfectly.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of warmth and spice.
How to Make Classic Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Combine All Ingredients
Start by gathering your cooked chicken, mayonnaise, diced celery, red onion, green onions, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, kosher salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Stir everything together thoroughly to ensure the chicken pieces are evenly coated with the creamy dressing and the crunchy veggies are well distributed. Adjust the mixture until you reach your desired level of creaminess and consistency.
Step 2: Adjust Seasoning and Serve or Chill
Give your chicken salad a taste and add extra salt and pepper if needed to suit your preference. You can serve it right away on a bed of crisp lettuce, inside a sandwich, or simply with crackers. Alternatively, cover the bowl and pop it into the fridge to let the flavors meld for a few hours—this step really brings the Classic Chicken Salad Recipe to life, deepening the taste and complexity.
How to Serve Classic Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a few thoughtfully chosen garnishes can elevate your Classic Chicken Salad Recipe from simple to stunning. Try sprinkling some extra chopped chives or green onions on top for a fresh finish. A dusting of smoked paprika or a few lemon zest curls can also bring vibrant color and an exciting twist to every bite.
Side Dishes
To make a complete meal, consider pairing this chicken salad with some light and easy side dishes. A crisp garden salad, roasted vegetables, or a bowl of fresh fruit are excellent companions that balance out the creamy richness of the salad. For a heartier option, serve alongside whole grain bread or buttery croissants.
Creative Ways to Present
There are so many fun and creative ways to enjoy this Classic Chicken Salad Recipe. Scoop it into ripe avocado halves for a stunning and nutritious presentation, stuff it inside a pita pocket for an on-the-go lunch, or pile it atop toasted baguette slices as an elegant appetizer. The versatility of this salad makes it perfect for casual lunches or fancy gatherings alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, storing your chicken salad properly is key to keeping it fresh and delicious. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Keeping the salad chilled preserves the crispness of the veggies and the creamy texture of the dressing.
Freezing
Although freezing is not ideal for this Classic Chicken Salad Recipe due to the mayonnaise-based dressing, which tends to separate, you can freeze the cooked chicken separately. Once thawed, simply prepare the salad fresh by combining the chicken with the other ingredients.
Reheating
This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating is generally not recommended. If you want a warm meal, consider using the chicken salad as a filling in a warmed sandwich or heating the chicken beforehand and then mixing in the other ingredients cold.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut for this Classic Chicken Salad Recipe. Using already cooked and flavorful chicken helps save time without compromising taste.
Is it possible to make this salad dairy-free?
Yes, since the recipe uses mayonnaise and no cheese or cream, it is naturally dairy-free. Just be sure to choose mayonnaise labeled dairy-free to be safe.
How long does this chicken salad last in the fridge?
This salad stays fresh in the refrigerator for about three days. After that, the texture and flavor start to decline, so it’s best enjoyed sooner rather than later.
Can I add other ingredients to customize the salad?
Definitely! This Classic Chicken Salad Recipe is a fantastic base that can handle additions such as grapes, apples, nuts, or dried cranberries to add sweetness and texture.
What is the best bread to use for chicken salad sandwiches?
Soft, slightly sweet breads like brioche or challah work wonderfully, but a hearty whole grain or sourdough bread can add a nice contrast and extra flavor to your sandwich.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about a well-made chicken salad, and this Classic Chicken Salad Recipe delivers every time with its perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and crisp elements. It’s straightforward, flexible, and immensely satisfying—a true favorite you’ll return to again and again. I encourage you to try it yourself and watch how quickly it becomes a staple in your meal rotation.
Print
Classic Chicken Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Salads
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
A classic chicken salad recipe combining tender cooked chicken with creamy mayonnaise, crisp celery, and a tangy hint of Dijon mustard and lemon juice. Perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or served over a bed of lettuce for a light and satisfying meal.
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
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, mayonnaise, celery, red onion, green onions, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together thoroughly, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated and the vegetables are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Mix until your desired consistency is reached.
- Season and Serve: Taste the chicken salad and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired. Serve immediately on bread, lettuce, or as preferred, or cover and refrigerate to let the flavors meld for a more enhanced taste before serving.
Notes
- Use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- For a lighter version, substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Add chopped nuts like pecans or almonds for extra crunch.
- Adjust the level of Dijon mustard and lemon juice to suit your taste preferences.
- Keep refrigerated and consume within 3 days for best freshness and safety.
