Simple Classic Chicken Salad - A delicious recipe by DigiDish

Simple Classic Chicken Salad

Ready for a dish that’s fresh, flavorful, and oh-so-easy? This Simple Classic Chicken Salad is a timeless favorite! Perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or scooped right onto your plate. Let’s turn a few simple ingredients into something absolutely delicious together!

4.7 out of 5 (3 ratings)

There’s something undeniably comforting about a dish that feels like an old friend—always dependable, always satisfying. That’s exactly what this Simple Classic Chicken Salad is all about! Whether you’re packing it for a picnic, trying to jazz up your lunch, or looking for a quick dinner fix, this recipe is the ultimate winner. It’s fresh, flavorful, and unbelievably versatile. Plus, I’m convinced this dish has magical powers; it’s like a little flavor hug in every bite. Honestly, if chicken salad could talk, it would say, "You got this!"

Chicken Salad Recipe

What makes this chicken salad so special? It’s all about that beautiful balance of creamy, crunchy, tangy, and savory goodness. We start with tender shredded chicken as the star, but what really takes it to the next level are the supporting players: crisp celery, sweet-tart dried cranberries, and crunchy toasted almonds. Oh, and let’s not forget the dressing! A creamy mayonnaise base with just a kiss of Dijon mustard and fresh lemon juice brings everything together like the perfect symphony of flavors. Trust me, each bite will have you nodding in approval as if you’ve just solved a tasty mystery.

A little tip from me to you: Poach your chicken for the most tender and juicy results! Boil a pot of water with aromatics like bay leaves, peppercorns, and a pinch of salt, let the chicken simmer until cooked through, and voilà—perfection awaits. Another little secret? Don’t be afraid to play with the texture. Shred the chicken for a rustic vibe or dice it for consistent pieces. And if you want to give this salad even more oomph, try adding a tiny splash of apple cider vinegar or a handful of fresh herbs like parsley or dill. These little tweaks can make the recipe feel uniquely yours.

Now, it’s time to grab a fork—or maybe your favorite crusty bread, buttery croissant, or crisp lettuce wraps—and dive in! This Simple Classic Chicken Salad is a canvas waiting for your creativity. Serve it over greens for a light salad, tuck it into a sandwich for a satisfying lunch, or even spread it on some crackers for an appetizer at your next get-together. Want to switch it up? Swap the almonds for pecans, or use grapes instead of cranberries. Whatever you choose, this recipe guarantees smiles all around. I mean, who needs a crown when this dish can make you feel like royalty?

Keywords: easy homemade chicken salad, classic chicken salad recipe, chicken salad sandwich ideas, best chicken salad for lunch, simple chicken salad meal, quick chicken salad recipe, chicken salad with cranberries

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

Servings

4 servings

Cuisine

American

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. 1

    1. In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to create the dressing.

  2. 2

    2. Add the cooked chicken, celery, red onion, and parsley (if using) to the bowl.

  3. 3

    3. Mix everything together until the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.

  4. 4

    4. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt or pepper as desired.

  5. 5

    5. Serve immediately, or chill in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours to let the flavors meld.

  6. 6

    6. Serve on a bed of lettuce, in a sandwich, or with crackers as a light meal.

Nutrition Information

Calories

250 calories

Protein

20g

Carbs

2g

Fat

19g

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different type of protein instead of chicken?

A: Yes, you can substitute the chicken with cooked turkey, rotisserie chicken, or even canned tuna for a similar result. For a vegetarian option, you can try chickpeas or firm tofu, though the flavor and texture will differ slightly.

Q: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?

A: Yes, Greek yogurt is a great alternative to mayonnaise if you prefer a lighter or tangier option. You can also use a 50/50 mix of Greek yogurt and mayonnaise to retain some of the creaminess while reducing calories.

Q: How long can I store this chicken salad?

A: You can store this chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to stir it before serving, as some separation may occur during storage.

Q: What can I do if my chicken salad tastes too dry?

A: If your chicken salad is too dry, try adding an extra tablespoon of mayonnaise or a splash of olive oil to improve the creaminess. You can also add a bit of lemon juice for moisture and a touch of brightness.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes, this recipe is perfect for making ahead. Prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld together over time, making it even more delicious when served.

Q: What are some variations I can try with this recipe?

A: You can customize this recipe by adding ingredients like diced apples, grapes, dried cranberries, or chopped nuts for sweetness and crunch. For a spicier version, mix in a pinch of cayenne or a dash of hot sauce. You can also swap parsley for dill or cilantro for a different flavor profile.

Q: Can I freeze chicken salad?

A: It's not recommended to freeze chicken salad because mayonnaise tends to separate when thawed, resulting in an unpleasant texture. If you want to freeze it, store only the chicken and vegetables, then mix in the dressing fresh when you're ready to serve.

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