Classic Chicken Salad

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Classic Chicken Salad

Description

Classic Chicken Salad is a creamy, fresh, and protein-packed dish made with tender cooked chicken, crunchy celery, juicy grapes, and fresh herbs tossed in a flavorful dressing. It’s versatile, satisfying, and perfect for sandwiches, wraps, lettuce cups, crackers, or light lunches. This timeless favorite is easy to make and ideal for meal prep.

Time

Prep: 15 mins
Cook: 0 mins (if using pre-cooked chicken)
Total: 15 mins

Servings

4 servings

Ingredients

For the Salad:

  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or diced)
  • ½ cup celery, finely chopped
  • ¼ cup red grapes, halved (optional but recommended)
  • 2 tbsp green onions or chives, chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Dressing:

  • â…“ cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Salt & black pepper to taste

Optional Add-ins:

  • 2 tbsp chopped walnuts or pecans
  • 1 tbsp dried cranberries
  • Lettuce leaves for serving

Method

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

Cook and cool chicken if needed. Dice or shred chicken into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Mix Dressing

In a bowl, combine mayonnaise (or yogurt), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Combine Salad

Add chicken, celery, grapes, green onions, and parsley to the bowl.

Step 4: Toss

Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.

Step 5: Chill

Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes for best flavor.

Step 6: Serve

Serve in sandwiches, wraps, lettuce cups, or with crackers.

Notes

  • Rotisserie chicken works great for convenience.
  • Grapes add sweetness and texture contrast.
  • Best served chilled.

Tips

  • Use Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
  • Add nuts for crunch.
  • Use apples instead of grapes if preferred.
  • Great for meal prep lunches.
  • Add extra herbs for freshness.

Nutritional Info (Approx per serving)

  • Calories: 260
  • Protein: 28g
  • Carbs: 5g
  • Fat: 14g
  • Fiber: 1g

Benefits

  • High in lean protein
  • Quick and easy no-cook meal
  • Great for lunch or meal prep
  • Customizable to many flavors
  • Filling and balanced

Q&A

Q1: Can I use canned chicken?

Yes, drained canned chicken can work.

Q2: How long does it last?

3–4 days refrigerated in airtight container.

Q3: Can I freeze it?

Not recommended because dressing texture may change.

Q4: What bread is best?

Croissants, whole grain bread, or wraps.

Q5: Can I make it low-carb?

Yes, serve in lettuce wraps or on salad greens.

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