Classic Chicken Salad

🥗 Classic Chicken Salad

Description

This Classic Chicken Salad is a creamy, flavorful, and satisfying dish made with tender cooked chicken, crunchy celery, onions, and a rich dressing of mayonnaise and seasonings. Perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or on a bed of lettuce — it’s a quick, protein-packed meal for lunch or light dinner.

Servings

• Serves: 4 people

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes (if cooking chicken)

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped or shredded (rotisserie or poached)

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional for tang)

• 1 stalk celery, finely chopped

• 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped (or green onions)

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (for freshness)

• Salt & pepper, to taste

Optional Add-ins:

• ¼ cup sliced grapes or diced apple – for sweetness

• 2 tablespoons chopped pecans or almonds – for crunch

• 1 teaspoon dill relish or pickle juice – for zest

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

   • If using raw chicken, poach or bake until fully cooked, then let it cool. Shred or dice into bite-sized pieces.

   • (Tip: Rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor.)

2. Mix the Dressing

   • In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

3. Combine Ingredients

   • Add the chicken, celery, onion, and parsley to the bowl. Stir until everything is evenly coated.

4. Adjust Flavor

   • Taste and adjust seasoning — add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.

5. Chill and Serve

   • Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.

   • Serve cold as a sandwich filling, in lettuce wraps, or on a salad.

Notes

• Chicken: Use any cooked chicken—grilled, baked, or leftover rotisserie.

• Texture: For creamier salad, add more mayo; for lighter texture, mix half mayo and half Greek yogurt.

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Make-Ahead: Can be prepared a day in advance; flavors improve overnight.

Serving Ideas

• On toasted bread or croissants for a sandwich.

• In lettuce cups for a low-carb option.

• Over mixed greens with tomatoes and avocado.

• With crackers for a snack platter.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

(Approximate values; may vary with ingredients used)

Health Benefits

• 🐔 High Protein: Supports muscle maintenance and energy.

• 🥬 Low Carb: Ideal for low-carb or keto diets.

• 🥗 Rich in Healthy Fats: From mayo and nuts (if added).

• 🍋 Customizable: Add fruits, herbs, or yogurt for extra nutrients and flavor.

• 💧 Hydrating Veggies: Celery and onions provide fiber and hydration.

Q&A

Q1: Can I make chicken salad without mayo?
👉 Yes! Substitute with Greek yogurt, avocado, or a vinaigrette for a lighter version.

Q2: How long does chicken salad last in the fridge?
👉 Up to 3–4 days in a sealed container.

Q3: Can I freeze chicken salad?
👉 Not recommended — mayonnaise and celery lose texture after thawing.

Q4: What type of chicken works best?
👉 Rotisserie chicken for convenience or poached chicken breast for tenderness.

Q5: How do I make it healthier?
👉 Use half mayo and half Greek yogurt, skip nuts, and load up on crunchy veggies.