Bowl of classic chicken salad with fresh vegetables and herbs

Classic Chicken Salad

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Classic chicken salad is a crowd-pleaser that is perfect for lunch, picnics, or a light dinner. It’s easy to make and offers a hearty, satisfying meal without being too heavy. Packed with protein and fresh vegetables, it’s a balanced dish that’s both delicious and nutritious. Whether you’re using leftovers or rotisserie chicken, this recipe is quick and versatile, allowing for customization based on your taste.

How to Make Classic Chicken Salad

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked chicken (chopped or shredded)
  • ½ cup mayonnaise (full-fat provides best flavor)
  • 1 rib celery (finely diced for texture)
  • 1 green onion (thinly sliced)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (adds subtle tanginess)
  • ¼ teaspoon seasoned salt (more to taste)
  • ⅛ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh dill (optional, dried dill works too)

Directions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Start with cooked chicken that is completely cooled. If using rotisserie chicken, remove the skin and pull the meat from the bones. Chop or shred the chicken into ½-inch pieces and place it in a medium-sized mixing bowl.

  2. Mix the Vegetables: Add the finely diced celery and thinly sliced green onion to the chicken in the bowl.

  3. Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, seasoned salt, and black pepper until well combined. If using fresh or dried dill, add it to the dressing and stir.

  4. Combine the Ingredients: Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and gently fold everything together with a spatula or large spoon. Be careful not to overmix or mash the chicken.

  5. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the salad and adjust seasoning as needed. For best flavor, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

How to Serve Classic Chicken Salad

Classic chicken salad can be served in many ways. You can enjoy it on a bed of greens, in a sandwich, or in a wrap. It’s also great served with crackers or as a filling for pita bread. Garnish with extra dill or a slice of lemon for a fresh touch.

How to Store Classic Chicken Salad

To store classic chicken salad, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to three days. If you plan to save it for later, it’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.

Tips to Make Classic Chicken Salad

  • Use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for a quicker meal.
  • Adjust the amount of mayonnaise to your preference for creaminess.
  • Experiment with spices and herbs to find your favorite flavor combination.
  • Add grapes or apples for a sweet crunch, or nuts for extra texture.

Variation

You can easily change the classic chicken salad by adding ingredients like grapes, apples, nuts, or dried cranberries for a sweet twist. Avocado can also be added for creaminess and a different flavor profile.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?
Yes, canned chicken can be used in a pinch. Just drain and rinse it before mixing.

2. How can I make this recipe healthier?
You can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise or add more veggies for extra fiber.

3. Is it safe to eat chicken salad after a few days?
If stored properly in the refrigerator, chicken salad is safe to eat for up to three days. Always check for spoilage before consuming.