If you’ve been hunting for that perfectly balanced, flavorful, and utterly satisfying chicken salad, look no further. This Classic Chicken Salad Recipe is a timeless favorite that brings together tender, shredded chicken with a creamy, tangy dressing and a delightful crunch from fresh celery and optional nuts. It’s not just a salad; it’s a comforting, vibrant dish that can effortlessly elevate your lunch, picnic, or light dinner with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, fresh ingredients are the heart of this recipe, each contributing a unique texture and burst of flavor that makes the Classic Chicken Salad Recipe so memorable. From creamy mayonnaise to the crisp bite of celery and the bright zing of Dijon mustard, every component plays a crucial role.
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded: The protein-packed base that’s tender and easy to mix.
- ½ cup mayonnaise: Adds rich creaminess and smooth texture.
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt: Brings tanginess and a lighter touch to balance the mayo.
- ¼ cup chopped celery: Offers a fresh crisp crunch and subtle earthiness.
- ¼ cup chopped onion: Provides a mild, savory bite for depth of flavor.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill: Infuses a fragrant herbal brightness that wakes up the palate.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Delivers a gentle kick and complexity to the dressing.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors perfectly.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds warm spice without overpowering.
- Optional: ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans: For a delightful nutty crunch that adds texture and richness.
How to Make Classic Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Combine Main Ingredients
Start by placing the shredded chicken into a large mixing bowl. Add the creamy elements of mayonnaise and Greek yogurt, which form the luscious base that makes every bite smooth and flavorful. Toss in chopped celery, onion, and fresh dill for that perfect blend of crunch and herbal zing.
Step 2: Season and Mix
Next, whisk together the Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper right into the bowl. This seasoning mix is essential—it deepens and brightens the salad, creating a balanced flavor that feels both comforting and fresh. Stir everything gently but thoroughly to ensure every shred of chicken is lovingly coated.
Step 3: Add Optional Crunch
If you love a bit of contrast in texture, folding in chopped walnuts or pecans is a fantastic choice. They elevate this Classic Chicken Salad Recipe by adding a toasty, nutty crunch that plays beautifully against the creamy and tender components.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
One of the joys of making this salad is customizing it just for you. Take a moment to taste and see if a pinch more salt, a slight increase in mustard, or an extra grind of black pepper makes your palate sing.
Step 5: Chill or Serve
You can serve this salad right away for a fresher, lighter experience or refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to let the flavors harmonize more deeply. Either way, it’s delicious and inviting, ready to star on your table.
How to Serve Classic Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh dill or chopped green onions on top adds an inviting visual freshness and a subtle boost in aroma. A few whole nuts scattered over the salad not only look gorgeous but hint at the crunchy surprise inside.
Side Dishes
Pairing the salad with lightly toasted whole grain bread or crisp lettuce leaves makes for a perfectly balanced meal. For a heartier option, some buttery croissants or vine-ripened tomatoes on the side complement the creaminess beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Classic Chicken Salad Recipe inside ripe avocado halves for a delightful twist or as a filling for flaky puff pastry for parties and gatherings. Layering it in a mason jar with colorful greens makes it portable and visually enticing for lunches on the go.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This chicken salad keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. It’s perfect for prepping lunches ahead, so you can enjoy delicious, hassle-free meals throughout the week.
Freezing
Because of its creamy dressing, freezing is not recommended for this Classic Chicken Salad Recipe. The texture of mayonnaise and yogurt can separate and become watery once thawed, which might affect the overall mouthfeel.
Reheating
This salad is best served cold or at room temperature to preserve its fresh, creamy character. If you prefer it less chilled, simply remove it from the fridge about 20 minutes prior to serving to soften up the flavors naturally.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds great flavor and saves time without compromising the deliciousness of this Classic Chicken Salad Recipe.
What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt on hand, sour cream or a soft cream cheese can work in a pinch, adding similar creaminess with slightly different notes.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! It’s one of the easiest and tastiest dishes to prepare in advance. Just keep it chilled and add any crunchy nuts right before serving to maintain texture.
Can I add fruit to the chicken salad?
Definitely. Apples, grapes, or dried cranberries bring a lovely touch of sweetness that complements the savory, creamy base perfectly.
How do I make it dairy-free?
Simply swap the Greek yogurt for a dairy-free alternative like coconut or almond yogurt, and use a mayo that fits your dietary needs to keep it creamy without dairy.
Final Thoughts
This Classic Chicken Salad Recipe is one of those wonderful dishes that feels like a warm hug from the inside. It’s quick, comforting, and endlessly adaptable, making it a staple you’ll come back to again and again. I truly hope you give it a try and find as much joy in every bite as I do sharing it with friends and family.
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Classic Chicken Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
This Classic Chicken Salad is a quick and easy recipe perfect for a light lunch or sandwich filling. Combining tender shredded chicken with creamy mayonnaise and Greek yogurt, crisp celery, and fresh herbs, this salad delivers a delicious balance of flavors and textures. Optional nuts add a delightful crunch. Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s a versatile and satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
- ¼ cup chopped celery
- ¼ cup chopped onion
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Ingredients
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, chopped celery, chopped onion, and chopped fresh dill, ensuring an even mixture.
- Add Seasoning: Stir in the Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper to infuse the salad with a subtle tang and balanced flavor.
- Incorporate Nuts: If desired, fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans to add texture and a slight crunch to the salad.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the chicken salad and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or mustard as preferred.
- Serve or Chill: Serve the salad immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld for a richer taste before serving.
Notes
- For a lighter version, you can reduce the mayonnaise quantity or replace it entirely with Greek yogurt.
- Perfect served on a bed of greens, in sandwiches, wraps, or with crackers.
- To make it dairy-free, substitute Greek yogurt with additional mayonnaise or a dairy-free alternative.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Fresh dill can be substituted with fresh parsley or tarragon if preferred.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salads
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
