This Classic Chicken Salad is a tasty mix of tender chicken, crisp celery, and delicious mayonnaise. It’s perfect for a light lunch or a picnic treat!
I love how easy it is to make this salad. Just toss everything in a bowl and you’re ready to impress! Pair it with some crunchy crackers, and you’re all set for a great meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is perfect for this recipe because it’s pre-cooked and very tender. If you don’t have it, leftover grilled or boiled chicken works just as well. You can even use canned chicken in a pinch, though the texture will change a bit.
Mayonnaise: This is the base of your chicken salad. If you want a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead. I like mixing both to keep it creamy but with a protein boost. You could also use avocado mash for a twist!
Dijon Mustard: It adds a nice tangy flavor. If you don’t have Dijon, yellow mustard will work, but it’s milder. I prefer Dijon for its unique kick, which really enhances the dish.
Grapes: Optional, but they add a nice pop of sweetness. If you don’t have grapes, try dried cranberries or apples for a different twist. I love the crunch and sweetness they add to each bite!
Nuts: Slivered almonds or walnuts add a crunch to the salad. If you have nut allergies, consider sunflower seeds or even crispy chickpeas for a similar texture.
How Can I Make Creamy Chicken Salad Without It Being Too Heavy?
The key to a creamy chicken salad without the heaviness lies in balancing the mayo and yogurt. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with 1/2 cup mayo and add 1/4 cup Greek yogurt if you want it lighter. Adjust based on your taste.
- Mix everything until combined, but remember: you can always add more mayo or yogurt if needed, but it’s tough to take it out!
- Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness and tang. This keeps the flavor fresh.
- Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to really elevate the taste!
Making it to your taste is essential; don’t be afraid to experiment with the ratios!
How to Make Classic Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (optional, for a lighter version)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup grapes, halved (optional for sweetness)
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds or chopped walnuts (optional for crunch)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Lettuce leaves
- Sliced tomatoes
- Bread of choice (white, whole wheat, or a roll) for sandwiches
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s quick to mix everything together, and you can enjoy it immediately or refrigerate it for later. Perfect for a healthy lunch or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Chicken Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (if you want a lighter version), Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Use a fork or spoon to mix everything until the chicken is well-coated and creamy.
2. Add Fresh Ingredients:
Now, it’s time to add some crunch and flavor! Toss in the finely chopped celery, red onion, halved grapes (if you’re using them), and nuts (if you like a bit of crunch). Stir everything together until it’s well mixed. You want all those yummy ingredients to be evenly distributed.
3. Season It Up:
Try your chicken salad and then sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste. You can adjust the amount of mayonnaise and mustard to fit your personal preference for creaminess and tanginess. Just be sure to mix it well after adjusting any ingredients!
4. Assemble Your Sandwiches:
To make a delicious sandwich, start by laying down a few lettuce leaves on a slice of bread. Then, add a couple of tomato slices followed by a generous scoop of your chicken salad mix on top.
5. Finish Your Sandwich:
Place another slice of bread on top to complete your sandwich. If you prefer, you can serve it open-faced for a nice presentation. You can even sprinkle some black pepper or fresh herbs on top for extra flavor!
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Now, you can cut your sandwich in half if you want and serve immediately. If you’re not eating it right away, cover it and refrigerate for later. Enjoy your tasty classic chicken salad!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Store-bought rotisserie chicken is perfect for this recipe since it’s already cooked and seasoned. Just shred or dice the amount you need before mixing it into the salad.
What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise?
If you want to avoid mayonnaise, you can use additional Greek yogurt or substitute it with avocado for a creamy texture. Hummus is also a great option for added flavor and healthy fats!
How to Store Leftover Chicken Salad?
Store any leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for about 3 days. If you notice it getting too thick, you can stir in a bit of yogurt or mayo to refresh its consistency when serving.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative. You can add ingredients like chopped apples for sweetness, diced bell peppers for crunch, or even herbs like dill or parsley for fresh flavor. Just adjust the seasoning accordingly!
