This Classic Chicken Salad is a yummy mix of tender chicken, crunchy celery, and sweet grapes, all brought together with creamy mayo. It’s perfect for lunch or a snack!
I love how easy it is to whip up! Just toss everything in a bowl and you’ve got a delicious meal. Best served on a sandwich or with crackers—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my go-to for this salad. It’s quick and packed with flavor. If you have leftover roasted chicken, that works wonderfully too!
Mayonnaise: Regular mayo gives creaminess, but you can use avocado or a vegan mayo for a healthier twist. I’ve enjoyed this with both options!
Greek Yogurt: This adds a tangy flavor and lightens the dish. You can swap it out with sour cream or leave it out if you prefer a richer salad.
Celery: The crunch of celery is essential! If you don’t have it, diced bell peppers or cucumber can add that nice crunch instead.
Onions: Red onions offer sweetness, but if they’re too strong for you, use green onions or finely chopped sweet onions instead.
How Can You Ensure the Best Flavor and Texture?
Mixing your ingredients properly is key for delicious chicken salad. Start with the wetter ingredients like mayonnaise and yogurt before adding the chicken. This ensures an even creaminess throughout.
- Always use cooked chicken, as it keeps the texture in check. Shred or dice it based on your preference.
- Don’t skip on refrigerating. Giving the salad time to chill boosts the flavor as everything mingles together.
- Adjust to your taste! Add more lemon juice for acidity or extra mustard for a kick—it’s all about personal preference!
How to Make Classic Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (optional for a lighter version)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Lettuce leaves
- Tomato slices
- Cucumber slices
- Bread or croissants (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. So, in total, you’ll need around 45 minutes to make this tasty classic chicken salad ready for serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the shredded or diced cooked chicken, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (if you’re using it), Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Use a spoon to mix everything together until it’s well combined and creamy.
2. Add the Vegetables:
Next, add the finely chopped celery, red onion, and green onions to your chicken mixture. Stir everything until the veggies are evenly distributed throughout the chicken salad.
3. Season to Taste:
Now, it’s time to add some flavor! Season your salad with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Give it another good mix to ensure the seasoning is evenly spread.
4. Chill for Flavor:
For the best taste, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the fridge. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This resting time helps all those delicious flavors to meld together!
5. Prepare for Serving:
When you’re ready to serve, place a few lettuce leaves on a plate. Then, add some slices of tomato and cucumber on top of the lettuce for a fresh touch.
6. Serve the Chicken Salad:
Now, generously spoon the chilled chicken salad over the bed of lettuce and vegetables you just prepared. It should look bright and inviting!
7. Optional Extras:
If you’d like, serve the chicken salad with some bread or croissants on the side for a more filling meal. Enjoy every bite of your classic chicken salad!
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds delicious flavor. Just shred or dice the chicken as you would with cooked chicken, and you’re good to go!
What If I Don’t Have Greek Yogurt?
No worries! You can simply omit it, or substitute with sour cream or regular yogurt. If you’re looking for a lighter version, more mayonnaise works too. Adjust based on your taste preference!
How to Store Leftover Chicken Salad?
Store leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, keep in mind that it’s best enjoyed cold, so you might just want to serve it fresh!
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in other veggies like diced bell peppers, carrots, or even grapes for a touch of sweetness. Just make sure they’re chopped small so they blend well with the chicken salad.
