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Best Classic Chicken Salad Recipe


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4.2 from 70 reviews

  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This Best Classic Chicken Salad recipe is a creamy, flavorful mix of diced cooked chicken, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and fresh vegetables. Perfect for sandwiches, lettuce cups, or a light lunch, it’s easy to prepare with no cooking required and packs a satisfying protein punch.


Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

  • 3 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ins

  • 1/4 cup sliced almonds
  • Halved grapes
  • Diced apples

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dressing: In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until the dressing is smooth and well blended.
  2. Add Chicken and Vegetables: Add the cooked chicken, finely chopped celery, red onion, and parsley (if using) to the bowl. Stir gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
  3. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the mixture and add more salt or pepper if desired, adjusting the flavor to your preference.
  4. Chill for Best Flavor: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and the salad to chill thoroughly before serving.
  5. Serve: Serve the chicken salad on sandwiches, in crisp lettuce cups, on crackers, or over a green salad for a versatile and delicious meal option.

Notes

  • Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and convenient prep method.
  • To lighten the salad, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
  • This chicken salad stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Salad
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: American