There’s something comforting about biting into a creamy, flavorful chicken salad. It’s simple yet packed with texture and taste that make it a perfect addition to your meal rotation.
Whether you’re craving a quick lunch, preparing for a picnic, or hosting a small get-together, this classic chicken salad recipe never fails to impress. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a dish that feels both effortless and thoughtful.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked and chopped or shredded chicken
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 rib celery, diced
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ¼ teaspoon seasoned salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh dill (optional) or ¼ teaspoon dried dill
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: none
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 6
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Spoon for mixing
- Measuring cups and spoons
How to Make This Recipe?
Creating this classic chicken salad is all about simplicity. It’s a matter of combining fresh ingredients with a creamy dressing to achieve a delightful mix of flavors and textures. You’ll only need a few minutes of prep, and the result is always satisfying.
Prepare the Chicken
Start by chopping or shredding the chicken. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, this step is simple and quick. Any leftover chicken from a previous meal works just as beautifully. Add the chicken to a large mixing bowl to begin building the salad.
Dice the Vegetables
Chop the celery into small, even-sized pieces and slice the green onion thinly. These ingredients bring a lovely crunch and a pop of flavor. Toss them into the bowl with the chicken, mixing lightly.
Make the Dressing
Combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, seasoned salt, black pepper, and dill in a smaller bowl. Stir these together until they’re creamy and smooth. The Dijon mustard adds a slight tang that ties all the ingredients together.
Assemble the Salad
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture. Gently stir everything until all the pieces are evenly coated with the creamy dressing. Adjust the seasonings to taste if needed, then chill the salad for at least 15 minutes to enhance the flavor. Serve when ready!
Why I Love Making This Recipe?
This recipe always takes me back to childhood picnics and family gatherings. It’s easy to make, incredibly versatile, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. I’ve also found that its simplicity lets me customize it however I want, making it feel like a new dish every time. There’s just something satisfying about creating something so delicious from such minimal effort.
Tips and Variations
Transforming this humble dish into something truly special is easy with a few tweaks. These tips come from my experience, and I think you’ll love experimenting with them.
- Try replacing half the mayo with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Add fruits like chopped apples or grapes for sweetness and texture.
- Toss in nuts such as pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch.
- If you love herbs, fresh parsley or even chives can complement the flavors nicely.
- I once swapped Dijon mustard for a dash of ranch dressing, and it was such a hit!
Serving Suggestions
This chicken salad shines no matter how you decide to serve it. Spread it onto buttery croissants or sandwich rolls for a hearty meal. Alternatively, spoon it over a bed of fresh greens or fill crispy lettuce leaves for a low-carb option. It pairs wonderfully with crackers if you want a snack or appetizer. On busy days, I’ve even enjoyed it by itself with a side of crisp veggies.
Storage and Leftovers
Store your chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Give it a quick stir before serving to refresh the texture. While it holds up well in the fridge, freezing chicken salad isn’t recommended because the mayo dressing can separate and lose its creamy consistency.
Nutritional Information
For each serving, you can expect approximately:
- Calories: 206
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fat: 16g
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even the simplest recipes can have their pitfalls. I’ve learned these tips firsthand to help you avoid potential mishaps and achieve the best results.
- Avoid over-seasoning upfront. Start light, then adjust as needed after mixing.
- Don’t use hot or warm chicken, as it can make the dressing runny. Cool the chicken completely before assembling the salad.
- Be cautious with add-ins. Overloading with too many extras can take away from the classic taste.
- Using low-quality mayo can drastically alter the flavor. I always recommend a high-quality brand for the best results.
There you have it! This classic chicken salad is a recipe you’ll keep coming back to time and again. Each bite is homey, creamy, and perfectly balanced, making it a staple dish in any kitchen.
