Why You’ll Love It
Chicken salad is a versatile, creamy dish packed with fresh ingredients like crunchy celery, sweet grapes, and tangy lemon, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Its adaptability makes it ideal for meal prep, picnics, or as a light lunch option. Whether you’re craving a classic version or a healthier twist, chicken salad can be customized to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. With its creamy texture, vibrant ingredients, and ease of preparation, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Perfect for busy weekdays or casual gatherings, it’s a recipe that delivers satisfaction without the fuss.
Key Ingredients in Chicken Salad
To create the ultimate chicken salad, gather these essential ingredients: 1 large stalk of finely diced celery, ½ medium red onion or 3 medium scallions (finely chopped), ½ cup of seedless red grapes (optional, halved), ½ medium lemon (juiced), 4 sprigs of fresh dill (chopped), 1 pound of shredded cooked chicken (about 3 cups), ¾ cup of mayonnaise (or a mix of ½ cup plain Greek yogurt and ¼ cup mayonnaise), 1½ teaspoons of Dijon mustard, ½ teaspoon of celery seeds (optional), kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. These components ensure a salad that’s creamy, flavorful, and utterly irresistible. Customize with optional add-ins like nuts or dried fruits for extra flair.
How to Make Chicken Salad
Making chicken salad is simple with this clear guide. Begin by preparing the vegetables: finely dice celery, red onion (or scallions), and halve grapes if using. In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded cooked chicken, diced celery, red onion, and grapes. Add fresh dill, lemon juice, mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt mixture), Dijon mustard, and celery seeds (if using). Mix until evenly coated. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting as needed. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld for a flawless finish.
Helpful Swaps
Customizing your chicken salad is easy with these helpful swaps. Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter, tangier version that’s still creamy. Swap grapes with diced apples or dried cranberries for added sweetness and texture. Substitute fresh parsley or tarragon for dill if preferred, adding a unique herbal note. For extra crunch, include chopped nuts like almonds or pecans. These substitutions ensure your salad remains fresh, flavorful, and adaptable to your preferences, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
To keep your chicken salad fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes, but you can freeze cooked chicken separately before assembling the salad. For optimal freshness, prepare all components in advance and assemble just before serving. This ensures the ingredients retain their crunch and vibrant flavors, making it a reliable option for meal prep or last-minute gatherings.
What to Serve with Chicken Salad
Chicken salad pairs beautifully with a variety of serving options. Enjoy it on whole-grain bread, croissants, or lettuce wraps for a satisfying sandwich. For a lighter option, spoon it over a bed of mixed greens, stuff it into avocado halves, or serve it with crackers or pita chips. Complement the dish with refreshing beverages like iced tea, sparkling water with lemon, or white wine to enhance the flavors. These pairings elevate your meal, ensuring a balanced and memorable dining experience.
See Also:
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Salad
Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking my own?
A: Yes, rotisserie chicken is a convenient and flavorful option.
Q: What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
A: Greek yogurt, sour cream, or mashed avocado works well for a similar creamy texture.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, it is naturally gluten-free unless you add bread-based toppings.
Q: How do I make the chicken salad spicier?
A: Add hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños for heat.
Q: Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes, store in the fridge for up to 3 days; stir well before serving.
Why This Chicken Salad Recipe is a Must-Try
This chicken salad stands out for its creamy texture, fresh ingredients, and versatility. Whether served as a sandwich, over greens, or as a party appetizer, it brings joy and indulgence to any occasion. Experiment with variations and presentations to make it your own, ensuring a delightful experience every time. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this recipe proves that simple ingredients can yield extraordinary results. Try it today it might just become your go-to dish for lunches, gatherings, or meal prep.
Print
Chicken salad
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This creamy chicken salad is a fresh, flavorful, and adaptable dish packed with shredded chicken, crisp celery, sweet grapes, and a tangy dressing. Perfect for sandwiches, lettuce wraps, or salads, it’s ideal for meal prep, quick lunches, and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound shredded cooked chicken (about 3 cups)
- 1 large stalk celery, finely diced
- ½ medium red onion or 3 scallions, finely chopped
- ½ cup seedless red grapes (optional, halved)
- ½ medium lemon, juiced
- 4 sprigs fresh dill, chopped
- ¾ cup mayonnaise (or ½ cup Greek yogurt + ¼ cup mayonnaise)
- 1½ teaspoons Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon celery seeds (optional)
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: chopped almonds, pecans, apples, or dried cranberries
Instructions
- Finely dice the celery, red onion (or scallions), and halve the grapes.
- In a large bowl, mix the shredded cooked chicken, celery, onion, and grapes.
- Add dill, lemon juice, mayonnaise (or yogurt mix), Dijon mustard, and celery seeds.
- Stir until well combined and evenly coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Replace grapes with diced apples or cranberries for a twist.
- Swap dill for tarragon or parsley.
- Add nuts for extra crunch.
- Do not freeze the salad; the texture will change.
- Stir before serving if made ahead.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
