Name: Best Chicken Salad Recipe: Fresh, Fast, Fabulous
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced; ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt); 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; ½ cup celery, finely chopped; ⅓ cup red onion, finely chopped; Salt & pepper to taste; Optional: parsley, dill, grapes, sliced almonds

Looking for a satisfying and flavorful chicken salad recipe that’s both quick and wholesome? Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or making a crowd-pleasing lunch, this classic dish checks all the boxes. Tender chicken, crisp veggies, and a creamy dressing come together in just minutes, making it perfect for picnics, sandwiches, or a low-carb snack.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to create the best chicken salad recipe, including tips, substitutions, and variations to suit any dietary preference.

Bowl of creamy chicken salad with chopped celery and herbs, served fresh on a table.

Chicken Salad Recipe

This easy chicken salad recipe combines tender chicken, crisp veggies, and a creamy dressing for a quick, flavorful meal. Perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or lettuce cups, it’s ready in just 10 minutes and easily customizable with herbs, nuts, or grapes. A classic, refreshing option for lunch or meal prep.

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Prep Time 10

Total Time 40

Servings: 4 People

Course: Lunch, Salad, Main Dish

Cuisine: American

Calories: 290

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

2 ½ cups Cooked chicken Shredded or diced breast
½ cup Mayonnaise Or substitute with Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon Lemon juice Freshly squeezed
½ cup Celery Finely chopped
⅓ cup Red onion Finely chopped
To taste — Salt & pepper
Optional — Parsley or dill Chopped, for added flavour
Optional — Grapes Halved, for sweetness
Optional — Sliced almonds For crunch

Equipment

1 Mixing Bowl Large enough to combine everything
1 Whisk or Spoon For mixing the dressing
1 Knife & Cutting Board For chopping veggies
1 Sharp Knife For dicing chicken, celery, onion
1 Measuring Cups To measure ingredients accurately
1 Spoon or Spatula For mixing everything together
1 Refrigerator To chill the salad before serving

Method

Prepare the Chicken: Use rotisserie, grilled, or boiled chicken. Shred or dice into bite-sized pieces.
Make the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Mix Ingredients: Add the chicken, chopped celery, and red onion into the bowl. Gently toss until everything is well coated.
Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors blend.
Serve: Scoop into lettuce cups, sandwiches, wraps, or over a bed of greens.

Notes

- Chicken Tip: Poaching chicken in broth adds extra flavour and keeps it juicy.
- Dressing Swap: You can substitute half or all of the mayo with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Texture Tip: Don’t overmix leaving the chicken slightly chunky gives the salad a rustic feel.
- Add-ins: Grapes, almonds, apples, or herbs (like dill or parsley) add texture and variety.
- Serving Tip: Chill before serving for the best flavor and consistency.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	290 kcal
Protein	25 g
Carbohydrates	2 g
Total Sugars	1 g
Dietary Fiber	0 g
Fat	20 g
Saturated Fat	3 g
Cholesterol	85 mg
Sodium	380 mg
Potassium	330 mg

Note: Values may vary slightly based on specific ingredients and substitutions (e.g., using Greek yogurt instead of mayo).

Serving Suggestions (Chicken Salad Recipe)

Serve in lettuce cups for a light, crisp bite.
Make a classic sandwich with toasted sourdough or brioche buns.
Spoon over a bed of mixed greens with cucumbers and tomatoes.
Fill halved avocados for a pretty presentation.

Storage Tips (Chicken Salad Recipe)

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 to 4 days.
Freezer: Not recommended, mayo-based dressings don’t freeze well.
Pro Tip: Use glass containers for longer freshness and odour control.

serving suggestions

1. Lettuce Cups

Spoon the chicken salad into crisp romaine or butter lettuce leaves.
Great for a low-carb, gluten-free option.
Garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon.

2. Sandwiches

Serve between slices of toasted sourdough, multigrain, or brioche bread.
Add tomato slices and crunchy lettuce for texture.
Ideal for lunch boxes or quick meals.

3. Wraps

Use whole wheat, spinach, or tomato tortillas.
Add shredded carrots, cucumber, or avocado for extra crunch.
Wrap tightly and slice in half for easy handling.

4. Salad Bowl

Top a bed of mixed greens with chicken salad.
Add toppings like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and sliced radishes.
Drizzle with olive oil or a light vinaigrette if desired.

5. Stuffed Avocados

Halve ripe avocados and remove a bit of the flesh to make room.
Spoon chicken salad into the center.
Sprinkle with paprika or chopped chives.

6. Picnic-Style

Pair with fruit, cheese, and iced tea for a perfect picnic spread.

Serve chilled with crackers, pita chips, or sliced baguette on the side.

Conclusion

Whether you’re prepping for a summer picnic, a light lunch, or a quick meal prep idea, this chicken salad recipe is your go-to solution for something easy, healthy, and incredibly delicious.
If you’re craving a comforting, cheesy dish, our Chicken Parmesan Recipe offers the perfect blend of crispy and creamy flavors. For a satisfying, crispy snack to complement your meal, try our Baked Chicken Wings Recipe, offering a golden, crunchy texture that pairs wonderfully with lighter dishes like this one.

Ready to enjoy a classic dish that never disappoints? Try this chicken salad recipe today and discover just how tasty and convenient homemade meals can be. Make it once, and it’ll become part of your regular meal rotation

FAQs

Can I make chicken salad without mayonnaise?

Yes! You can substitute mayo with Greek yogurt, mashed avocado, or a mix of olive oil and lemon juice for a lighter, dairy-free version.

How long can chicken salad sit out at room temperature?

Chicken salad should not sit out for more than 2 hours (or 1 hour if above 32°C/90°F) to avoid bacterial growth. Always keep it chilled.

What type of chicken is best for chicken salad?

Cooked boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the most common, but rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken also work great for flavor and convenience.

Can I add eggs to chicken salad?

Absolutely! Chopped hard-boiled eggs add creaminess and extra protein. Just fold them in gently at the end.

Best Chicken Salad Recipe: Fresh, Fast, Fabulous