This Classic Chicken Salad is a tasty mix of juicy chicken, crunchy celery, and creamy mayo. It’s perfect for sandwiches, on crackers, or just by itself!
You can whip this up in no time! Honestly, I love making a big batch and munching on it throughout the week. It’s like a little taste of summer in every bite! ☀️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is perfect for this salad! It’s ready to go, or you can cook your own chicken breasts or thighs. If you need a healthier option, turkey works well too.
Mayonnaise: Classic chicken salad calls for mayonnaise, but Greek yogurt is a great alternative for a lighter version. I find a half-half mix of both offers a creamy texture with a tangy kick.
Celery: Celery adds crunch! If you’re not a fan, diced apples create a nice sweet crunch, or you could use diced bell peppers for a different flavor.
Red Onion: Red onion brings a great flavor, but it can be sharp for some. Try using green onions instead for a milder taste, or skip it altogether.
Dijon Mustard: This is optional, but it adds a nice depth. If you don’t have it, yellow mustard works fine, or you can add a splash of vinegar for acidity.
How Do I Make the Chicken Salad Super Flavorful?
A crucial step in making your chicken salad delicious is mixing the ingredients well. Combine the shredded chicken, mayonnaise, and other ingredients gently in a large bowl. Make sure everything is coated but not overly mushy. Here’s what to do:
- Start with the chicken in a large bowl, then fold in the mayonnaise, celery, onion, and relish.
- If you’re using mustard and lemon juice, add them next for extra flavor.
- Season with salt and pepper, checking to see if more is needed based on your taste.
- Let it chill in the fridge for 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to come together nicely.
When serving, don’t rush! Laying down the lettuce leaves and topping with the chicken salad adds a lovely presentation. Enjoy your lovely meal with or without bread!
How to Make Classic Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Lettuce leaves
- Tomato slices
- Cucumber slices
- Bread or croissants (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This classic chicken salad takes about 15 minutes of prep time and at least 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, in total, you’ll need about 45 minutes before it’s ready to serve. The chilling time helps all those tasty flavors blend together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, start by combining the shredded chicken, mayonnaise, finely chopped celery, red onion, and sweet pickle relish. This is where the magic begins! Stir everything together until all the ingredients are evenly mixed and coated with the mayonnaise.
2. Add Some Zing:
If you want to add a bit more flavor, now’s the time to mix in the Dijon mustard and fresh lemon juice. Give everything another good stir. Taste your chicken salad and season it with salt and pepper according to your liking. Don’t be shy—tweak it until it’s just how you want it!
3. Chill and Let Flavor Marry:
Once you’ve mixed everything well, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it into the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time will allow all the flavors to meld and become even more delicious.
4. Serving Your Chicken Salad:
When you’re ready to serve, lay out some crisp lettuce leaves on a plate. Spoon the chicken salad generously on top. Add some fresh tomato and cucumber slices for color and crunch. If you like, you can also serve it with bread or croissants on the side. Enjoy your refreshing and tasty chicken salad!
Can I Use Canned Chicken Instead of Cooked Chicken?
Absolutely! Canned chicken is a great time-saver. Just drain and rinse it before using to remove excess sodium. You may want to add a bit more mayo or seasoning since canned chicken can be a bit drier than freshly cooked chicken.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute for mayonnaise. It will give the chicken salad a tangy flavor and added creaminess. Alternatively, you can use sour cream or an avocado mash for a different twist!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Chicken Salad?
You can store leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you’re making it ahead of time, consider storing the components separately (like the salad and lettuce) until serving for the best texture!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Chicken Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your chicken salad with additional ingredients like grapes, nuts, apples, or hard-boiled eggs for extra flavor and texture. Just be mindful of adjusting the mayo, salt, and pepper to balance out the added ingredients.
