The Ultimate Chicken Salad Recipe: Creamy, Flavorful, and Easy to Make
If you’re looking for a quick, tasty, and satisfying meal, chicken salad is a go-to option that never disappoints. This classic chicken salad is creamy, packed with fresh ingredients, and perfect for a light lunch or dinner. Whether you serve it on a bed of greens, in a sandwich, or with crackers, it’s sure to be a hit.
➡ Why You’ll Love This Chicken Salad Recipe
Easy to Make: You don’t need to be a pro in the kitchen to make this simple, flavorful dish.
Versatile: Enjoy it on a sandwich, in a wrap, or on its own for a refreshing meal.
Customizable: Add your favorite ingredients like nuts, fruits, or herbs to make it your own.
Ingredients:
3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great!)
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup Greek yogurt (for extra creaminess)
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 celery stalk, finely chopped
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup grapes or apples, chopped (optional for sweetness)
1/4 cup slivered almonds or pecans (optional for crunch)
Salt and pepper, to taste
➡ How to Make Chicken Salad
1. Prepare the Chicken: If you haven’t already, cook your chicken. You can use grilled chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even leftovers. Shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces.
2. Mix the Dressing: In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Stir until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the Veggies and Nuts: Add the chopped celery, red onion, and any optional ingredients like grapes, apples, or nuts. Stir to combine.
4. Combine Chicken with Dressing: Add the shredded chicken to the bowl and mix everything until the chicken is fully coated with the dressing.
5. Season: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking. If you prefer a tangier flavor, you can add a little more mustard or lemon juice.
6. Chill (Optional): For the best flavor, cover and refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
➡ Tips for Perfect Chicken Salad:
Customize the Protein: You can also substitute chicken with turkey or even tuna for a different variation.
Add Fresh Herbs: Fresh dill, parsley, or chives can add extra flavor and freshness.
Make It Low-Carb: Serve the chicken salad in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option instead of bread.
Sweet or Savory: For a bit of sweetness, consider adding dried cranberries or raisins. For a savory kick, chopped pickles or capers work wonderfully.
This chicken salad is creamy, crunchy, and so full of flavor. It’s the perfect dish for meal prep, picnics, or a quick weeknight dinner. Enjoy!