Chicken salad with Dijon mustard and mayo is a versatile and beloved dish that can be enjoyed in countless ways—whether as a sandwich filling, a topping for greens, or a standalone meal. One of the most flavorful variations is chicken salad with Dijon mustard and mayo, which adds a tangy, creamy twist to the traditional recipe. In this article, we’ll explore how to make this delicious dish, its nutritional benefits, serving suggestions, and tips for customization.
Why Chicken Salad with dijon and mayo?
Dijon mustard brings a sharp, slightly spicy depth to chicken salad with Dijon mustard and mayo, balancing the richness of mayonnaise. This combination creates a creamy yet zesty flavor profile that elevates the dish beyond the ordinary. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or hosting a light lunch, this chicken salad with Dijon mustard and mayo is a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make a classic chicken salad with Dijon mustard and mayo, gather the following ingredients:
2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced—rotisserie chicken works great!)
½ cup mayonnaise (full-fat or light, depending on preference)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (adjust to taste)
1 celery stalk, finely diced (for crunch)
¼ cup red onion, minced (optional for extra bite)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley or dill, chopped
1 teaspoon lemon juice (brightens the flavors)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional add-ins:
½ cup halved grapes or diced apples (for sweetness)
¼ cup chopped walnuts or almonds (for texture)
1 hard-boiled egg, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
If you don’t have pre-cooked chicken, you can poach, bake, or grill chicken breasts. Shred or dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Rotisserie chicken is a convenient option that adds extra flavor to your chicken salad with Dijon mustard and mayo.
2. Mix the Dressing
In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth. Taste and adjust the mustard or seasoning as needed for your chicken salad with Dijon mustard and mayo.
3. Combine Ingredients
Add the chicken, celery, red onion (if using), and fresh herbs to the dressing. Gently fold everything together until well-coated. If adding extras like grapes, nuts, or eggs, mix them in now to enhance your chicken salad with Dijon mustard and mayo.
4. Chill Before Serving
For the best flavor, cover and refrigerate your chicken salad with Dijon mustard and mayo for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the ingredients to meld together.
Serving Suggestions
This chicken salad with Dijon mustard and mayo is incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:
Sandwiches & Wraps: Serve on croissants, whole-grain bread, or in a tortilla wrap with lettuce and tomato.
Lettuce Cups: For a low-carb option, spoon into butter lettuce or romaine leaves.
Crackers or Toast: Enjoy as a dip with whole-grain crackers or on toasted baguette slices.
Salad Topping: Add a scoop to a bed of mixed greens, avocado, and cherry tomatoes.
Nutritional Benefits
Chicken salad with Dijon mustard and mayo can be a balanced meal when prepared with wholesome ingredients:
Protein: Chicken provides lean protein to keep you full and support muscle health.
Healthy Fats: Mayo (especially avocado-oil-based or Greek yogurt substitutes) adds healthy fats.
Fiber & Vitamins: Celery, onions, and herbs contribute fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins.
To make your chicken salad with Dijon mustard and mayo lighter, you can:
Substitute half the mayo with Greek yogurt.
Use a low-fat or vegan mayo alternative.
Increase veggies like diced cucumbers or bell peppers for extra crunch.
Customization Ideas
One of the best things about chicken salad with Dijon mustard and mayo is how easily it can be adapted to different tastes. Here are some variations:
1. Mediterranean-Inspired
Add kalamata olives, feta cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes.
Swap Dijon for whole-grain mustard.
2. Sweet & Savory
Mix in diced apples, dried cranberries, and pecans.
Drizzle with a touch of honey for balance.
3. Spicy Kick
Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper.
Include pickled jalapeños for extra heat.
Storage Tips
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: Not recommended, as mayo-based salads can separate when thawed.
Final Thoughts
Chicken salad with Dijon mustard and mayo is a simple yet sophisticated dish that’s perfect for quick lunches, picnics, or light dinners. The tangy Dijon cuts through the creaminess of the mayo, while crunchy celery and fresh herbs add layers of texture and flavor.
By experimenting with different add-ins, you can create a version of chicken salad with Dijon mustard and mayo that suits your taste—whether you prefer it sweet, savory, or spicy. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll have a go-to meal that never gets boring!
Would you like any modifications or additional recipe ideas? Let me know how your chicken salad with Dijon mustard and mayo turns out!