Ah, the classic chicken salad—a timeless dish that always brings a smile to my face! I’ll let you in on a little secret: this recipe holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of summer picnics with my family, where we’d feast on sandwiches piled high with this delightful salad. There’s just something about a cool, creamy chicken salad that feels like a hug on a plate, isn’t there? Also, it’s ridiculously versatile: whether you’re serving it at a party, as a light lunch, or even packing it for a picnic, it’s always a hit.
And let me tell you, the best part of this recipe is how simple it is to whip up. With just a handful of ingredients you probably already have on hand, you’ll have a chicken salad that tastes like it’s been crafted by the hands of culinary genius. Alright, let’s dig into what makes this salad so delectable!
What’s in Classic Chicken Salad?
Cooked Chicken: The star of the show! I usually use leftover roasted chicken, but you can also grab a rotisserie chicken from the store—it saves time and adds great flavor.
Celery: Crunchy and refreshing, diced celery adds a wonderful texture. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!
Red Onion: A little sharpness goes a long way! Finely chopped red onion brings a zesty bite, but feel free to use green onions if you prefer a milder taste.
Mayonnaise: This creamy goodness is the base of our dressing. I tend to go for a good-quality mayo, but you can also use Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Dijon Mustard: Just a tablespoon boosts the tanginess of the dressing. I absolutely adore the depth it adds!
Lemon Juice: A splash of fresh lemon juice brightens up the entire salad and keeps everything tasting fresh.
Garlic Powder: A little garlic powder gives it that extra flavor kick without overpowering the other ingredients.
Salt and Pepper: Always essential for seasoning to taste.
Green Onions: Optional, but I think they add a delightful pop of color and flavor to finish off the dish.
Lettuce Leaves: For serving, a bed of crisp lettuce not only looks appealing but adds a refreshing crunch.
Is Classic Chicken Salad Good for You?
Oh, absolutely! This chicken salad is packed with protein from the chicken, which is fantastic for your muscles and overall health. The celery brings in dietary fiber and adds some hydration. But remember, while it’s a healthier option compared to many mayonnaise-laden salads, moderation is key—especially with that creamy dressing. If you’re looking to lighten it up even more, subbing some Greek yogurt for mayo works wonders and adds probiotics to boot!
If you’re watching your sodium intake, you might want to opt for low-sodium chicken or homemade mayo instead of the store-bought kind. Overall, this salad is a wholesome option that satisfies both your cravings and your dietary goals.
Classic Chicken Salad Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
– 1/2 cup celery, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup green onions, sliced (optional, for garnish)
– Lettuce leaves (optional, for serving)
This recipe serves about 4 people! Perfect for a small gathering or for meal prep during the week!
How to Make Classic Chicken Salad?
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded or diced chicken, diced celery, and finely chopped red onion.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until everything is well coated.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
5. If desired, mix in sliced green onions for added flavor and texture.
6. Chill the chicken salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
7. Serve the chicken salad on a bed of lettuce or as a filling in sandwiches or wraps. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions for Your Chicken Salad Delight!
Now that we’ve made this delicious classic chicken salad, how can we switch it up? Serve it inside a croissant for a fancy touch or on toasted whole-grain bread for a heartier sandwich. Want to get fancy? Add some cranberries or grapes for a sweet twist! And if you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some chopped nuts for crunch. The options are endless, and I absolutely love seeing how everyone puts their spin on this classic dish.
I can’t wait for you to give this classic chicken salad a try! It’s such an easy recipe that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Please let me know how it turns out for you, and what fun variations you came up with! Happy cooking!
