This Classic Chicken Salad is light, fresh, and perfect for summer! With juicy chicken, crunchy celery, and a tangy dressing, it’s a sunny dish that brightens any meal.
I love to serve it in a bun or on a bed of greens. It’s so easy to make, you can whip it up in no time, even on a busy day! Plus, it tastes great in picnics, too! 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I love using leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider poaching your chicken breast to keep it moist without added fats.
Mayonnaise: Traditional mayo provides creaminess, but Greek yogurt is a great substitute for a lighter option. It adds protein and tang. You can mix half mayo and half yogurt if you want the best of both worlds!
Celery: Celery adds a nice crunch and flavor. If you’re not a fan, diced apples or grapes can offer a sweet contrast to the savory chicken. They also bring a refreshing quality to the dish.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the salad. If you don’t have lemons, a bit of apple cider vinegar can work as a substitute. Just use less, as vinegar is stronger.
Onions: Green onions add a mild onion flavor. If you prefer a strong bite, try red onion instead, but only use a little since they can overwhelm the other flavors.
What’s the Best Way to Keep the Chicken Salad From Being Dry?
To prevent dry chicken salad, make sure you shred or chop the chicken into small, equal pieces so they mix well with the dressing. Pay attention to the amount of mayonnaise – you want a good coating without it getting too slimy.
- Use freshly cooked chicken, ideally warm, as it absorbs the dressing better.
- Mix the dressing well to ensure even coating and moisture distribution.
- Let it chill for at least 30 minutes to meld all the flavors and keep it refreshing.
Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving! Enjoy your summer meals!
Classic Chicken Salad Recipe for Summer Meals
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or finely chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (for a little tang)
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped green onions or mild onion, finely chopped
- Crackers or bread for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare. For the best flavor, chill the chicken salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. You’ll be ready to enjoy a refreshing meal in about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Chicken and Celery:
In a medium bowl, mix together the shredded chicken and finely chopped celery. This will create a nice base for your salad, blending the savory chicken with the crunchy celery.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and if you’re using it, the Dijon mustard. Blend until everything is nicely combined and creamy.
3. Combine Everything Together:
Pour the dressing mixture over the chicken and celery. Stir gently until all the chicken and celery are evenly coated with the dressing. Make sure every bite is flavorful!
4. Adjust Seasoning:
Give your chicken salad a taste. If you think it needs a little more pizzazz, feel free to add a pinch more salt, pepper, or a splash of lemon juice for extra brightness.
5. Chill Your Salad:
For the best flavor, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and chill the chicken salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows all the ingredients to meld together beautifully.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, serve the chicken salad on crackers, in a sandwich, or simply on a bed of greens. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired for a lovely touch.
This creamy, crunchy, and citrusy chicken salad is perfect for light summer meals and pairs wonderfully with crisp crackers or fresh bread. Enjoy your tasty and refreshing dish!
FAQ for Classic Chicken Salad Recipe
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken, or even rotisserie chicken, works perfectly. Just ensure it’s shredded or finely chopped for the best texture.
Can I Substitute Mayonnaise for a Lighter Option?
Yes, you can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version! It adds protein and a nice tang. You can also use half yogurt and half mayo for a delicious balance.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Chicken Salad?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again to mix everything back together!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Chicken Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your chicken salad by adding ingredients like grapes, apples, nuts, or other vegetables. Just keep the overall flavor balance in mind!
