Classic Chicken Salad Recipe: Creamy, Versatile and Protein-Rich
Chicken salad is one of those timeless recipes that manages to be both simple and sophisticated at the same time. This creamy, protein-packed dish combines tender shredded chicken with crisp vegetables and a tangy dressing that creates the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re using leftover rotisserie chicken or canned chicken for convenience, this versatile dish transforms humble ingredients into something truly special.
Why This Chicken Salad Recipe Stands Out
What makes this particular chicken salad recipe exceptional is its perfect balance of creaminess, crunch, and flavor. The combination of mayonnaise (or a healthier Greek yogurt alternative) with dijon mustard creates a rich base, while celery seeds add a subtle aromatic quality. Fresh dill provides a bright, herbaceous note that elevates the entire dish. Whether you’re making chicken salad wraps for lunch or serving it at your next gathering, this high-protein chicken salad will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection.
Ingredients for Classic Chicken Salad
To make this delicious chicken salad, you’ll need:
- 1 pound shredded, cooked chicken (about 3 cups) – use rotisserie chicken, poached chicken breasts, or even canned chicken
- 1 large stalk celery, diced (about 1/2 cup)
- 1/2 medium red onion, finely diced or 3 medium scallions, thinly sliced (about 1/2 cup)
- 1/2 cup seedless red grapes, quartered (optional)
- 1/2 medium lemon (for 1 tablespoon juice)
- 4 sprigs fresh dill, fronds picked and coarsely chopped (about 1/4 cup)
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise, or 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt plus 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon celery seeds (optional)
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
How This Chicken Salad Is Different
This classic chicken salad serves as a versatile base recipe with a creamy dressing and simple mix-ins. It’s designed for sandwiches, wraps, or quick lunches.
How to Make the Perfect Chicken Salad
Creating this delicious chicken salad is quick and straightforward:
- Prepare the vegetables by dicing 1 large celery stalk (about 1/2 cup) and adding it to a medium bowl.
- Finely dice 1/2 medium red onion or thinly slice 3 medium scallions (about 1/2 cup) and add to the bowl.
- If using grapes, quarter 1/2 cup red grapes and add them to the mixture.
- Juice 1/2 medium lemon until you have 1 tablespoon and add the juice to the bowl.
- Pick the fronds from 4 fresh dill sprigs and coarsely chop them (about 1/4 cup), then add to the mixture.
- Add 1 pound of shredded cooked chicken (about 3 cups) to the bowl.
- Add 3/4 cup mayonnaise (or 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt plus 1/4 cup mayonnaise for a lighter version).
- Add 1 1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard and 1/2 teaspoon celery seeds if desired.
- Gently stir all ingredients until evenly combined.
- Taste and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Chicken Salad Tips & Variations
Ways to Prepare Your Chicken
There are several excellent options for the chicken in this recipe:
- Rotisserie Chicken: Using a store-bought rotisserie chicken is perhaps the easiest and most flavorful option. Simply remove the skin and shred the meat for an instant flavor boost.
- Poached Chicken: For the most tender results, gently poach boneless, skinless chicken breasts in seasoned water until cooked through, then shred.
- Canned Chicken: In a pinch, drained canned chicken works surprisingly well for a quick chicken salad.
- Leftover Chicken: This recipe is perfect for using up leftover grilled, baked, or fried chicken from previous meals.
- Instant Pot Chicken: Pressure-cooked chicken breasts shred beautifully and can be ready in minutes.
Flavor Variations to Try
- Waldorf Chicken Salad: Add 1/2 cup chopped apples and 1/4 cup toasted walnuts for a delicious chicken waldorf salad variation.
- Tarragon Chicken Salad: Substitute the dill with 2 tablespoons of fresh tarragon for an elegant French-inspired version.
- Curry Chicken Salad: Add 1-2 teaspoons of curry powder and 1/4 cup golden raisins for a warm, aromatic twist.
- Mediterranean Style: Mix in 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes, 2 tablespoons chopped olives, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Buffalo Chicken Salad: Toss the shredded chicken in 2 tablespoons of buffalo sauce before mixing with the other ingredients and use blue cheese dressing instead of mayo.
Make It Healthier
- Greek Yogurt Swap: Make a Greek yogurt chicken salad by replacing most or all of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt for a protein boost and fewer calories.
- Add More Veggies: Increase the nutrition by adding diced bell peppers, grated carrots, or chopped cucumber.
- Make It Keto: For a keto chicken salad, skip the grapes and add extra celery, some chopped bacon, and avocado.
Salad Dressings That Pair Well With This Salad
While this chicken salad has its own creamy dressing incorporated, you might want to serve it on a bed of greens with one of these complementary dressings:
- Lemon Vinaigrette: The bright, citrusy notes of a simple lemon vinaigrette complement the richness of chicken salad when serving it over mixed greens.
- Healthy Honey Mustard Dressing: The sweet-tangy profile of honey mustard echoes the Dijon in the chicken salad while adding a touch of sweetness.
- Creamy Ranch Dressing: If serving your chicken salad on a lettuce wedge, a drizzle of homemade yogurt ranch dressing creates a delicious double-creamy effect.
- Balsamic Vinaigrette: The deep, complex flavors of balsamic vinaigrette provide a sophisticated contrast to the creamy chicken salad.
What to Serve With This Salad
This versatile chicken salad pairs beautifully with many accompaniments:
- Sandwiches and Wraps: Serve on croissants, whole grain bread, or wrapped in flour tortillas for delicious shredded chicken sandwiches or chicken salad wraps.
- Crackers and Crostini: Offer as an appetizer with an assortment of crackers or toasted baguette slices.
- Lettuce Cups: For a low-carb option, spoon into Romaine or Butter lettuce leaves.
- Fresh Fruit: Pair with sliced apples, grapes, or berries for a refreshing contrast.
- Soups: Serve alongside a light soup like tomato bisque or gazpacho for a complete meal.
- Pasta Salad: Complement with a simple pasta salad for a hearty lunch spread.
- Grain Bowls: Add to a base of quinoa or farro with additional vegetables for a balanced meal.
How to Store Chicken Salad
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage is crucial for maintaining both safety and flavor when it comes to chicken salad:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- If your chicken salad contains Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise, it may separate slightly during storage—simply stir before serving.
- For the best quality, don’t leave chicken salad at room temperature for more than 2 hours (1 hour in hot weather).
- While you can keep cooked chicken in the fridge for 7 days, once it’s mixed into salad, the 3-4 day guideline applies due to the other perishable ingredients.
- Freezing is not recommended as the mayonnaise will separate and the vegetables will become soggy when thawed.
FAQs About Chicken Salad Recipe
How long does homemade chicken salad last in the refrigerator?
When stored properly in an airtight container, homemade chicken salad will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Always refrigerate promptly after serving and never leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.
Can I use canned chicken for chicken salad?
Absolutely! Canned chicken is a convenient and time-saving option for chicken salad. Simply drain it well, break up any large chunks, and proceed with the recipe as written. While the texture may be slightly different from fresh chicken, it still makes a delicious chicken salad, especially when you add crunchy vegetables and flavorful seasonings.
Is chicken salad healthy?
Chicken salad can be a nutritious high protein option, especially when made with lean chicken breast and modified ingredients. Using Greek yogurt in place of some or all of the mayonnaise significantly reduces the fat content while adding protein. Adding plenty of vegetables increases fiber and nutrients. A serving of this chicken salad provides approximately 18g of protein, making it a satisfying meal option that can support muscle maintenance and weight management when enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.
Enjoying Your Homemade Chicken Salad
There’s something incredibly satisfying about having a container of homemade chicken salad in your refrigerator – it’s like a culinary security blanket that can transform into a quick meal or elegant appetizer at a moment’s notice. This versatile recipe adapts to your needs, whether you’re looking for a high-protein lunch option or a crowd-pleasing party dish.
The beauty of chicken salad lies in its adaptability. Once you master this classic version, feel free to experiment with different mix-ins and seasonings to create your own signature chicken salad. From a simple chicken salad sandwich to an impressive stuffed avocado presentation, this recipe is bound to become a regular part of your meal rotation.
Give this recipe a try, and discover why chicken salad has remained a beloved classic for generations. Your taste buds – and your busy schedule – will thank you!
Other Salads to Try
Classic Chicken Salad Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine diced celery, finely diced red onion or sliced scallions, quartered grapes (if using), lemon juice, and chopped dill in a medium bowl.
- Add shredded chicken, mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt and mayonnaise combination), Dijon mustard, and celery seeds.
- Gently mix until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
- For best results, use chilled ingredients and refrigerate the finished salad for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- This chicken salad will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
- Try serving on croissants, in lettuce wraps, or on a bed of mixed greens.
- For a lighter version, replace some or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Add chopped walnuts, apples, or dried cranberries for delicious variations.
