Making chicken salad is like stepping back into my childhood kitchen, watching my mom whip up something quick yet satisfying for the family. Chicken salad is a staple in our home, befitting any occasion—whether it’s a picnic in Central Park or a simple family dinner on a bustling weeknight. It's not just about ease; it's about that comforting, creamy texture and the crunch of those fresh ingredients that just brings everyone together. I’m thrilled to share this chicken salad recipe with you, one that has been a beloved dish in my family for years.
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One morning last summer, while preparing this dish, my daughter asked if we could add something new to the recipe, and that’s how we ended up trying chives instead of green onions. It’s little experiments like these that make cooking such an adventure! If you have your own twist, I’d love to hear about it too. You might also want to try my gluten-free lemon crinkle cookies for dessert afterward.
Why you’ll love this recipe
This chicken salad is versatile and perfect for quick lunches, light dinners, or even a last-minute dinner party addition. The creamy dressing coats tender pieces of chicken with a gentle zing from the lemon and Dijon mustard, balancing well with the crisp celery and tangy red onion. You can have this chicken salad by itself, slap it between two pieces of fresh bread for a hearty sandwich, or toss it over fresh greens for a delightful salad.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup diced celery, ¼" dice
- ⅓ cup diced red onion, or shallots, ⅛ dice
- 2 tablespoons sliced green onions, or chives
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Step-by-step instructions
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Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, add the chicken, mayonnaise, celery, red onion, green onions, mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, mixing well until the desired consistency is reached.
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Adjust seasoning: Season with more salt and pepper as desired.
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Ready to serve: Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
Recipe tips & variations
- You can roast, grill, or poach your chicken for this salad. Each method provides a unique flavor.
- Swap out mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or avocado for a healthier version.
- Toss in some nuts or fruits like grapes or cranberries for added texture and flavor.
Storage & reheating
Store your chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, though it’s so delicious, I doubt it will last that long!
FAQs
Can I make chicken salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day ahead allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the taste.
What is the best way to cook chicken for chicken salad?
I love poaching the chicken for this salad. It keeps it tender and juicy. Just simmer it gently in some seasoned water or broth.
Can I substitute mayonnaise in chicken salad?
Sure, you can use Greek yogurt or mashed avocado as a healthier alternative to mayonnaise.
How long does homemade chicken salad last in the fridge?
Your homemade chicken salad will last about 3 days in the fridge when stored properly in an airtight container.
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I hope this chicken salad recipe becomes a beloved favorite in your home as well. Enjoy!
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Chicken Salad
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A comforting and creamy chicken salad recipe with fresh ingredients, perfect for quick lunches and dinners.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup diced celery, ¼" dice
- ⅓ cup diced red onion, or shallots, ⅛ dice
- 2 tablespoons sliced green onions, or chives
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, add the chicken, mayonnaise, celery, red onion, green onions, mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, mixing well until the desired consistency is reached.
- Adjust seasoning: Season with more salt and pepper as desired.
- Ready to serve: Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
Notes
- You can roast, grill, or poach your chicken for this salad. Each method provides a unique flavor.
- Swap out mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or avocado for a healthier version.
- Toss in some nuts or fruits like grapes or cranberries for added texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salads
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
