Chicken Salad: Classic, Creamy, and Perfect for Any Meal

When it comes to quick, satisfying lunches or light dinners, nothing beats a fresh, flavorful Chicken Salad. Packed with tender chicken, crisp veggies, creamy dressing, and a touch of seasoning, this timeless recipe is easy to make and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re piling it onto buttery croissants, wrapping it in lettuce, or serving it with crackers, Chicken Salad is a versatile dish that always hits the spot.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Salad

This classic Chicken Salad recipe is creamy yet light, balanced with the crunch of celery and a hint of sweetness from grapes or apples. It’s high in protein, easy to make ahead, and stays fresh in the fridge for days, making it perfect for meal prep, picnics, or last-minute entertaining. It’s also naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free with simple swaps.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded (rotisserie or poached works great) – 1/2 cup mayonnaise – 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream – 2 celery stalks, finely chopped – 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced – 1/2 cup halved grapes or diced apple – 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – 1 teaspoon lemon juice – Salt and black pepper, to taste – Optional: 1/4 cup chopped pecans or almonds

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, chopped celery, red onion, grapes or apple, and nuts if using. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until everything is well coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

Tips for the Best Chicken Salad

For maximum flavor, use rotisserie chicken for a juicy, tender texture. Add a teaspoon of fresh dill or tarragon for an herby twist. Swap grapes with dried cranberries for a different sweetness. If you prefer a lighter salad, increase the Greek yogurt and reduce the mayonnaise. Serve your chicken salad on toasted bread, croissants, in lettuce cups, or with crackers.

Variations

Make it Mediterranean by adding diced cucumber, kalamata olives, and feta cheese. Add curry powder, golden raisins, and slivered almonds for a Curried Chicken Salad. Try it spicy by mixing in sriracha or chopped jalapeños.

Storage

Store chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Stir before serving. For best texture, avoid freezing.

Nutrition Information (per 1/2 cup serving)

Calories: ~280 | Fat: 18g | Carbs: 8g | Protein: 22g | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 5g

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