If you’ve ever dreamed of finding that perfectly balanced, creamy, tangy, and subtly savory chicken salad that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then the Classic Carol Chicken Salad Recipe is exactly what you need in your life. This recipe brings together tender diced chicken with a luscious blend of mayonnaise and Dijon mustard, accented by crisp celery, aromatic onion, fresh parsley, and just the right touch of garlic powder, salt, and pepper. It’s quick to prepare, bursting with delightful flavors, and a sure way to impress anyone lucky enough to enjoy it at your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is wonderfully simple but relies on the right ingredients to hit that perfect flavor and texture. Each component plays a key role, whether it’s the creaminess of the mayonnaise, the zing from the Dijon mustard, or the crisp freshness of celery and onion.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced: Use cooked chicken breast or rotisserie chicken for tender, flavorful bites.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: The creamy base that binds everything and adds richness.
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard: Adds a gentle tang and depth without overpowering.
- 1/4 cup chopped celery: Provides a refreshing crunch for texture contrast.
- 1/4 cup chopped onion: Brings a subtle bite and sweetness, balancing the creaminess.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: A gentle hint of savory warmth that rounds out the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: Brightens the salad with a fresh herbal note.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to elevate all the other ingredients.
How to Make Classic Carol Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Main Ingredients
Start by placing the diced cooked chicken in a large mixing bowl. Adding mayonnaise and Dijon mustard right away helps coat the chicken evenly and begin building creamy, tangy flavor. Toss in the chopped celery and onion for that essential crunchy texture and mild sweetness, followed by sprinkling in garlic powder for a subtle savory background.
Step 2: Add Fresh Herbs and Season Well
Next, stir in the fresh parsley. This not only enlivens the salad visually but also introduces a fragrant herbal bite that complements the savory notes beautifully. Season the mixture with salt and pepper, tasting as you go to find just the right balance that suits your palate.
Step 3: Chill to Meld Flavors
Pop your salad into the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial because it allows the flavors to harmonize and deepen. While it’s tempting to dig in right away, you’ll be rewarded with a much more delicious and cohesive salad when given time to rest.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
After chilling, your Classic Carol Chicken Salad Recipe is ready to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. The texture should be creamy but with a good crunch and fresh notes in every bite—the perfect combination for any occasion.
How to Serve Classic Carol Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra chopped fresh parsley or a few whole leaves can brighten the presentation and add a fresh herb aroma. You might also consider a light dusting of paprika for a pop of color and a hint of smoky sweetness.
Side Dishes
Classic Carol Chicken Salad pairs wonderfully with crisp crackers, fresh crusty bread, or wrapped up in a soft pita or tortilla for an easy lunch. For a lighter pairing, serve alongside a green salad or crunchy vegetable sticks for a refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming appetizer, scoop the salad into small lettuce cups or hollowed-out cherry tomatoes. This elevates the dish beyond the ordinary and makes it party-ready in moments. Alternatively, create a layered chicken salad sandwich or stuff it into avocado halves for a modern, colorful presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Classic Carol Chicken Salad Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it chilled until serving to maintain the creamy texture and freshness of the ingredients.
Freezing
Since the salad contains mayonnaise and fresh vegetables, freezing is not recommended as it can disrupt the texture and flavor. Instead, plan to enjoy it within a few days for the best quality.
Reheating
This salad is best served cold or at room temperature and does not require reheating. If you prefer it less chilled, just leave it out for a short while, but avoid heating as it will soften the crisp ingredients and separate the mayonnaise.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooked chicken breast?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken adds a wonderful depth of flavor and convenience, making this Classic Carol Chicken Salad Recipe even quicker to prepare without sacrificing taste.
Is there a substitute for mayonnaise?
You can substitute Greek yogurt or a light mayonnaise to make the salad a bit healthier, but keep in mind it will slightly alter the texture and creaminess that make this recipe so beloved.
How long should the salad chill before serving?
At least 30 minutes in the refrigerator is key to allow all the flavors to meld together beautifully, though you can chill it for up to a few hours without issue.
Can I add nuts or dried fruit to this recipe?
Definitely! Adding chopped nuts like almonds or pecans or dried cranberries can introduce a delightful sweet-crunchy element, giving the salad a nice twist without overpowering the original flavors.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep lunches?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prepping since it stores well in the fridge and tastes fantastic cold. Just pack it in a sealed container and pair with fresh bread or veggies for an easy grab-and-go meal.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly comforting about the Classic Carol Chicken Salad Recipe, and I can’t recommend it enough for your next meal. It’s quick, delicious, and satisfies those cravings for something creamy yet refreshing. Whether served on a cozy afternoon or dressed up for company, this chicken salad will quickly become one of your favorite go-to dishes. Give it a try—you’ll understand why it’s such a beloved recipe!
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Classic Carol Chicken Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Classic Carol Chicken Salad Chick is a simple, flavorful chicken salad featuring tender diced chicken mixed with creamy mayonnaise, tangy Dijon mustard, crisp celery, and onion, seasoned with garlic powder and fresh parsley. Perfect for a light lunch or sandwich filling, this chilled salad delivers a refreshing balance of creamy and savory flavors in under 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken Salad
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the diced cooked chicken with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, chopped celery, chopped onion, and garlic powder until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Add herbs and season: Stir in the fresh chopped parsley, then season the mixture with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Chill: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and develop fully.
- Serve: Serve the chicken salad cold or at room temperature, ideal for sandwiches, wraps, or atop a bed of greens.
Notes
- Using cooked chicken from rotisserie or leftovers works well for convenience.
- Adjust mayonnaise quantity to your desired creaminess level.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright citrus note if desired.
- For extra crunch, add chopped nuts like pecans or almonds.
- This salad keeps well refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
