Looking for a simple, creamy, and delicious chicken salad? This Amish Chicken Salad recipe is just what you need. Inspired by traditional Amish cooking, it’s packed with flavor and easy to make at home. Whether you’re preparing lunch, hosting guests, or meal prepping for the week, this recipe fits right in. Keep reading to discover how to make this classic dish step by step.
Why You’ll Love This Amish Chicken Salad
This Amish Chicken Salad stands out for its simplicity and rich flavor. Unlike store-bought versions loaded with preservatives, this homemade version uses fresh, wholesome ingredients that you can feel good about.
Here’s why it’s a recipe worth saving:
- Simple Ingredients: You likely already have everything you need in your kitchen.
- Creamy and Flavorful: The perfect blend of tender chicken, creamy dressing, and mild seasonings.
- Versatile: Serve it in sandwiches, wraps, lettuce cups, or enjoy it by the spoonful.
- Quick to Make: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy days or last-minute meals.
- Inspired by Amish Tradition: Rooted in comfort food, this recipe brings a taste of old-fashioned, homemade goodness to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Amish Chicken Salad recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together for a creamy, flavorful dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
Cooked Chicken
- 2 to 3 cups of chopped or shredded chicken breast or thigh
- Use rotisserie chicken, leftover roast chicken, or poached chicken for convenience
Mayonnaise
- ½ to ¾ cup, depending on your desired creaminess
- Use high-quality mayo for best taste (like Duke’s or Hellmann’s)
Hard-Boiled Eggs (optional but traditional)
- 2 eggs, chopped
- Adds a rich, creamy texture and protein
Celery
- 1–2 stalks, finely chopped
- Adds crunch and freshness
Sweet Pickle Relish or Chopped Pickles
- 2–3 tablespoons
- Adds sweetness and tang—very common in Amish-style salads
Yellow Mustard (optional)
- 1 teaspoon
- Adds a slight tang and depth of flavor
Salt and Pepper
- To taste
- Start light and adjust based on preference
Sugar (optional)
- ½ to 1 teaspoon
- A touch of sugar balances the tanginess, often found in Amish recipes
Onion or Onion Powder (optional)
- 1–2 tablespoons finely minced onion or ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Enhances flavor without overpowering
Ingredient Tips:
- For a healthier twist, swap part of the mayo with plain Greek yogurt.
- If you’re short on time, pre-chopped rotisserie chicken makes this recipe even faster.
- Want extra crunch? Add chopped apples or walnuts.
Equipment Overview
One of the best things about this Amish Chicken Salad recipe is that it doesn’t require any special equipment. Just a few basic kitchen tools and you’re good to go.
Mixing Bowl
A large bowl for combining all the ingredients. Choose one with enough space to mix comfortably without spilling.
Cutting Board & Knife
Use a sharp knife for chopping the chicken, celery, eggs, and any other add-ins like onions or pickles.
Fork or Potato Masher (Optional)
Handy if you prefer a more mashed or shredded texture in your chicken salad.
Measuring Cups & Spoons
Helps to portion ingredients accurately, especially the mayo, mustard, and seasonings.
Mixing Spoon or Rubber Spatula
For stirring everything together without breaking down the chicken too much.
Pot (if boiling eggs)
If you’re not using pre-boiled eggs, you’ll need a small pot to hard-boil them.
Optional but Useful:
- Food Processor: If you like a finely chopped or whipped-style salad.
- Storage Container: Airtight containers for chilling the salad or storing leftovers.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making Amish Chicken Salad is simple and quick. Follow these easy steps for a perfectly creamy, flavorful result every time:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
If using raw chicken, cook it by boiling, baking, or pan-searing until fully done. Let it cool. Shred or chop the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Tip: Rotisserie or leftover chicken works great and saves time.
Step 2: Boil the Eggs (if using)
Place eggs in a pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce to a simmer for 10–12 minutes. Cool in ice water, peel, and chop finely.
Step 3: Chop the Veggies
Finely dice celery, onion, and any other mix-ins like pickles. Keep pieces small and uniform for a smoother texture.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, mix together:
- Mayonnaise
- Mustard (if using)
- Pickle relish
- Sugar (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Adjust the mayo quantity for your preferred creaminess.
Step 5: Combine Everything
In your large mixing bowl, combine:
- Shredded/chopped chicken
- Chopped eggs
- Chopped vegetables
Pour the dressing over and mix gently with a spoon or spatula until well coated.
Step 6: Taste and Adjust
Give it a taste. Add more salt, pepper, or sweet relish if needed. If it’s too thick, add a spoon of mayo or a splash of milk to loosen it up.
Step 7: Chill Before Serving (Recommended)
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors blend and improves texture.
Tips for Perfect Amish Chicken Salad
A few simple tweaks and techniques can take your Amish Chicken Salad from good to absolutely delicious. Here are the best tips to help you get it just right:
Use Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients
Freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken makes a big difference in flavor and texture. Use crisp celery, quality mayo, and flavorful pickles or relish.
Shred vs. Chop the Chicken
Shredded chicken gives a softer, more cohesive texture. Chopped chicken offers a chunkier, rustic bite. Choose based on your preferred texture — both work well!
Adjust Creaminess to Taste
Start with less mayo and add more gradually. You can also mix in a bit of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. For a lighter version, try half mayo, half yogurt.
Don’t Skip the Chill Time
Let the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the dressing to thicken slightly.
Balance the Sweetness and Tang
Amish-style chicken salad often has a slightly sweet profile. Taste before serving — if it’s too tangy, add a pinch of sugar. If it’s too sweet, balance with a little vinegar or mustard.
Finely Dice the Add-ins
Keep celery, onions, pickles, and eggs finely chopped to ensure an even distribution in every bite.
Season Just Right
Salt and pepper are essential — taste as you go! Add a pinch of paprika or garlic powder for a flavor boost if desired.
Serve It Cold
Always serve this salad chilled for the best flavor and food safety, especially if it’s made ahead of time.
Variations to Try
While the classic Amish Chicken Salad is simple and delicious on its own, you can easily customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some creative and tasty variations to try:
Sweet & Tangy Variation
Add extra sweet pickle relish or chopped bread-and-butter pickles. Mix in a tiny splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice for added tang. Great if you love that signature Amish sweet-and-savory balance.
Savory & Herbed Version
Skip the sugar and add fresh or dried herbs like dill, parsley, or chives. Add a pinch of garlic powder, paprika, or celery seed for deeper flavor. Ideal for those who prefer less sweetness and more savory notes.
Healthy Twist
Replace some or all of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt or light sour cream. Use skinless chicken breast and limit added sugar. Serve on lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
Fruity and Crunchy
Add diced apples, halved grapes, or dried cranberries for a sweet contrast. Toss in toasted pecans or walnuts for extra crunch. A perfect choice for a fall-themed or holiday-friendly version.
Zesty & Spicy Kick
Add a dash of hot sauce, dijon mustard, or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. Mix in finely chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes. Great for those who love a little heat in their salad.
Creamy & Cheesy
Stir in shredded cheddar, Swiss, or Colby Jack cheese for added richness. Works well when served as a sandwich melt or on warm toast.
What to Serve With Amish Chicken Salad
Amish Chicken Salad is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many delicious ways. Whether you’re preparing a light lunch, a picnic spread, or a hearty meal, here are some great serving ideas:
As a Sandwich
Serve on soft sandwich rolls, brioche buns, whole wheat bread, or even croissants. Add a layer of lettuce, tomato, or sliced cucumbers for freshness and crunch.
- Tip: Toast the bread lightly to prevent sogginess and add texture.
In Wraps or Lettuce Cups
Use flour tortillas, spinach wraps, or low-carb wraps for a quick, portable option. Or, spoon into crisp romaine or butter lettuce leaves for a gluten-free, low-carb meal.
On a Salad Plate
Serve a scoop of chicken salad over mixed greens, with sliced tomatoes, hard-boiled eggs, and crackers on the side. Great for a light, protein-packed lunch.
With Crackers or Crostini
Spoon the chicken salad onto crackers, bagel chips, or toasted baguette slices for an easy appetizer or snack platter.
As a Side Dish Companion
Pair your Amish Chicken Salad with:
- Fresh fruit (grapes, melon, apple slices)
- Potato chips or pretzels
- Pickles or pickled vegetables
- Potato salad, macaroni salad, or coleslaw for a picnic-style plate
In a Bread Bowl or Puff Pastry
For a unique presentation, scoop the salad into a mini bread bowl or puff pastry shell for parties or gatherings.
How to Store Leftovers
Amish Chicken Salad stores very well, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers. Proper storage helps maintain its freshness, flavor, and safety. Here’s how to do it right:
Refrigerator Storage
Place the salad in an airtight container. Store in the coldest part of your fridge, usually near the back. It will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days.
- Tip: Use a shallow container for faster cooling and even chilling.
Do Not Leave at Room Temperature
Since this recipe contains mayo and eggs, it’s not safe to leave out for long. Discard any chicken salad that’s been at room temperature for more than 2 hours (or 1 hour if above 90°F / 32°C).
Stir Before Serving Again
After chilling, give the salad a good stir before serving. You may need to add a small spoonful of mayo or milk if it seems dry after refrigeration.
Freezing Is Not Recommended
Freezing is not ideal because mayo and eggs tend to separate or become grainy after thawing. The texture of celery and other crunchy ingredients can also become watery or mushy when thawed.
Storage Summary:
| Storage Method | How Long? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fridge | 3–4 days | Store in airtight container |
| Room Temp | Max 2 hours | Discard after that time |
| Freezer | Not recommended | Texture and quality will suffer |
Pro Tip:
If you’re preparing the salad ahead of time for a party or event, store the components (chicken, dressing, mix-ins) separately and combine just before serving for the best texture.
Nutritional Information
While exact values can vary based on portion size and specific ingredients used (like full-fat vs. light mayo), here is an approximate nutritional breakdown for 1 serving (about ½ cup) of traditional Amish Chicken Salad:
Estimated Nutritional Values (Per ½ Cup Serving):
- Calories: 280–320
- Protein: 18–22g
- Fat: 22–26g
- Saturated Fat: 3–4g
- Carbohydrates: 3–6g
- Sugars: 1–2g (from relish or added sugar)
- Fiber: <1g
- Cholesterol: 90–120mg
- Sodium: 400–600mg
Factors That Can Affect Nutrition:
- Type of Mayo: Using light mayo or substituting Greek yogurt can lower fat and calories.
- Chicken Cut: Chicken breast is leaner than thigh meat.
- Add-ins: Ingredients like eggs, sweet relish, sugar, or cheese can raise fat, sugar, or sodium levels.
- Portion Size: These numbers are based on a moderate portion—larger servings will increase values.
Tips for a Healthier Version:
- Use half Greek yogurt and half mayo to reduce fat and calories.
- Opt for low-sodium pickles and seasoning to cut down on salt.
- Skip added sugar or use a tiny amount of honey for natural sweetness.
Conclusion
Amish Chicken Salad is a timeless recipe that brings together simplicity, comfort, and rich flavor in every bite. Whether you enjoy it in a sandwich, wrap, or straight from the bowl, it’s easy to make, endlessly versatile, and always satisfying. With just a few fresh ingredients and simple steps, you can create a dish that feels both homemade and hearty—just like the traditional Amish kitchens that inspired it. Give it a try, and you may find it becomes a staple in your kitchen too.
FAQS
Amish Chicken Salad Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Using a stand mixer with paddle attachment, blend chicken breasts until thoroughly shredded, or shred by hand. (Note: Shredded chicken rather than diced chicken pieces will help recreate the original Willow Tree chicken salad texture.)
- Remove bowl from the stand mixer and add in all other ingredients. Stir by hand to mix well.
- Serve over lettuce leaves or in sandwiches.