Classic Chicken Salad Recipe isn’t just a meal — it’s a comfort food classic, perfect for picnics, light lunches, and quick dinners. Creamy, crunchy, and bursting with flavor, this classic chicken salad recipe brings together shredded chicken, crisp vegetables, and a rich, tangy dressing. Whether you’re serving it between croissants, wrapped in lettuce, or on its own, this dish is endlessly versatile and always satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Salad
This chicken salad strikes the perfect balance between flavor and texture. It’s:
Creamy but not gloopy
Crunchy from fresh celery and onion
Lightened with Greek yogurt
Sweet and tangy with optional grapes or apples
Whether you’re prepping a week’s worth of lunches or serving it for a family gathering, this recipe delivers every time.
Key Ingredients for Chicken Salad
To achieve the best taste and texture, choose fresh, high-quality ingredients:
Shredded cooked chicken (preferably rotisserie or poached breast)
Celery for crunch
Red onion or scallions for a bit of zing
Seedless red grapes (optional) for sweetness
Fresh dill or parsley for brightness
Mayonnaise + plain Greek yogurt for a creamy, light base
Dijon mustard to add tang
Celery seed for a classic touch
Salt and black pepper to taste
How to Prepare Chicken for Salad
Classic Chicken Salad Recipe :
Start with 1 pound of cooked chicken — breast meat works best for its tenderness and flavor absorption.
Preparation Options:
Shredded Chicken: Use your fingers or two forks to shred.
Chopped Chicken: For a chunkier texture, dice the chicken into small pieces.
Rotisserie Chicken: A time-saver that adds extra depth of flavor.
For the best consistency, allow the Classic Chicken Salad Recipe to cool completely before mixing it with other ingredients.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Chicken Salad
Follow these easy steps:
Prep ingredients:
Dice 1 celery stalk (½ cup)
Finely chop ½ red onion or scallions (½ cup)
Halve ½ cup grapes
Juice ½ lemon
Chop fresh dill (¼ cup)
Combine ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix:3 cups shredded chicken
¾ cup mayonnaise (or ½ cup Greek yogurt + ¼ cup mayo)
1½ tsp Dijon mustard
½ tsp celery seed
All the chopped vegetables and herbs
Season: Add kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Chill: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Delicious Variations to Try
Want to personalize your chicken salad? Try these creative spins:
Avocado Chicken Salad: Replace mayo with mashed avocado.
Waldorf Style: Add apples, walnuts, and raisins.
Spicy Kick: Mix in chopped jalapeños and a dash of hot sauce.
Mediterranean: Include feta, kalamata olives, and cucumbers.
Low-Carb Option: Skip grapes and serve in lettuce cups.
These variations keep the dish fresh and exciting every time you make it.
How to Serve Chicken Salad
There are countless ways to enjoy chicken salad. Here are a few popular serving ideas:
Croissant Sandwich: A buttery croissant is the perfect vehicle.
Lettuce Wraps: Great for low-carb or gluten-free diets.
On Toasted Bread: Classic and simple.
With Crackers: A great appetizer or snack.
Over Greens: Turn it into a complete salad bowl.
Each method offers a unique texture and flavor experience.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Classic Chicken Salad Recipe :
To keep your chicken salad tasting fresh:
Make-Ahead: Prepare up to 2 days in advance and store in the refrigerator.
Storage: Keep in an airtight container for up to 2–3 days.
Avoid Freezing: Mayo and yogurt-based salads don’t freeze well.
Revive Before Serving: Stir gently and add a little mayo or lemon juice if it seems dry.
What to Serve With Chicken Salad
Classic Chicken Salad Recipe :
Complete your meal with delicious sides:
Homemade Potato Chips
Pickles or Pickled Vegetables
Fruit Salad or Fresh Berries
Tuna Melt (made with leftover chicken salad!)
Soup & Salad Combo: Pair with tomato soup or a light broth
This makes it a perfect meal for lunch, brunch, or even light dinners.
Helpful Swaps and Customization Tips
Make your chicken salad fit your taste and dietary needs:
No Grapes? Use apples, dried apricots, or skip fruit entirely.
No Mayo? Use all Greek yogurt or mashed avocado.
Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans, almonds, or walnuts.
Tangy Edge: Stir in a splash of pickle brine or lemon juice.
Fresh Herbs: Swap dill for parsley, tarragon, or chives.
These flexible tips help you create your ideal version of chicken salad, every time.
Final Thoughts
This Classic Chicken Salad Recipe is more than just a meal — it’s a timeless favorite. With its creamy base, crunchy veggies, and adaptable ingredients, it’s no wonder chicken salad continues to be a go-to dish across generations. Follow this guide and customize it your way to create a version that your family and guests will request again and again.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQS
Best Chicken Salad Chick Recipe American Salad Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Step 1: Cook and Shred the Chicken
- Start by boiling or poaching the chicken breasts until fully cooked
- Step 2: Mix the Base
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mayonnaise, and celery. Mix gently until evenly coated.
- Step 3: Season
- Add salt, black pepper, and any optional spices. Stir well and taste-test. Adjust seasonings according to your preference.
- Step 4: Chill Before Serving
- Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour. This allows the flavors to meld and enhances the texture.
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