Description
This classic chicken salad is creamy, crunchy, and full of flavor. It’s perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or served atop fresh greens. Quick and easy to prepare, it’s a versatile lunchtime favorite that also makes a great potluck dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded (e.g., rotisserie or leftover chicken breast)
- ½ cup mayonnaise (adjust to taste)
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt (optional, for a lighter texture)
- ½ cup diced celery
- ¼ cup diced red onion
- ½ cup halved grapes (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Chicken
- If you don’t have pre-cooked chicken on hand, cook chicken breasts by boiling or baking until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let cool, then dice or shred.
-
Make the Dressing
- In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Stir thoroughly to create a creamy base.
-
Add Remaining Ingredients
- Fold in the chicken, celery, red onion, and grapes (if using).
- Mix gently until everything is well coated with the dressing.
-
Taste & Adjust
- Add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your preference.
- Stir in fresh herbs (like parsley or dill) for extra flavor, if desired.
-
Chill & Serve
- For best flavor, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Serve in sandwiches, wraps, or over a bed of lettuce.
Notes
- Lighten It Up: Replace or reduce mayo with more Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
- Variations: Add chopped apples or walnuts for extra crunch and flavor.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (using pre-cooked chicken)
- Category: Salad, Main Dish
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: chicken salad recipe, creamy chicken salad, easy lunch, healthy salad, leftover chicken recipe