Chicken salad is one of those timeless dishes that fits perfectly in various settings, from lunch breaks to picnics and backyard barbecues. Its simplicity and ease of preparation make it a favorite among home cooks. The combination of juicy chicken, crunchy vegetables, and creamy dressing creates a flavor explosion that can be customized to your liking.
Why We Love This Chicken Salad Recipe
There’s something incredibly comforting about chicken salad. It brings back memories of family gatherings and sunny afternoons spent outdoors. This recipe is special because it balances flavors and textures brilliantly. The crunch of celery and the sweetness of grapes (if you choose to add them) complement the rich, tender chicken. The creaminess from the mayonnaise—or the Greek yogurt if you prefer—adds a delightful texture that keeps you coming back for more.
What really sets this chicken salad apart is how versatile it is. You can enjoy it on its own, serve it on a bed of greens, or stuff it into a sandwich or wrap. With just a few simple ingredients, you have a dish that can satisfy any craving. Plus, the nutritional aspects are not to be overlooked. Using Greek yogurt can amp up the protein content and lower the overall calorie count, making it a healthy choice for a meal or snack.
Ingredients for Chicken Salad
To whip up this delightful chicken salad, you need a selection of fresh ingredients. This ensures that every bite is packed with flavor and nutrients.
- 1 large stalk celery (about 1/2 cup when diced)
- 1/2 medium red onion or 3 medium scallions (about 1/2 cup, finely diced)
- 1/2 cup seedless red grapes (optional, quartered)
- 1/2 medium lemon (juiced to yield about 1 tablespoon)
- 4 sprigs fresh dill (fronds picked and coarsely chopped; about 1/4 cup)
- 1 pound shredded, cooked chicken (about 3 cups)
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise or 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt plus 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon celery seeds (optional)
- Kosher salt (to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
How to Make Chicken Salad
Creating this chicken salad is a straightforward process that will leave you feeling like a culinary pro. Here’s how to do it step by step:
Preparation: Start by gathering all your ingredients. This makes the process smooth and efficient. Grab a medium bowl for mixing.
Chop the Vegetables: Dice the celery stalk into small pieces, aiming for about 1/2 cup. This adds a crunchy texture to your chicken salad. Next, finely dice the red onion or slice the scallions thinly, which will also measure about 1/2 cup.
Incorporate the Grapes: If you opt for the grapes, quarter them and add them to the bowl. Their sweetness can elevate the overall taste, making your chicken salad a little more exciting.
Juicing the Lemon: Take 1/2 of a medium lemon and juice it until you have about a tablespoon. This fresh lemon juice adds brightness to your dish.
Chop the Dill: Pick the fronds off the dill sprigs and chop them coarsely. You need about 1/4 cup, which will impart a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
Add the Chicken: Add the shredded cooked chicken to the bowl. You can use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience or boil your own for a fresher option.
Mix the Dressing: In the same bowl, add 3/4 cup of mayonnaise or a combination of 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt with 1/4 cup mayonnaise. Then add the Dijon mustard and celery seeds (if using). This makes for a creamy dressing that binds everything together.
Season to Taste: Stir all the ingredients until well combined. Taste the mixture and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper as desired. Adjust the seasoning until it suits your palate.
Chill: For the best flavor, let the chicken salad chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This allows the ingredients to meld beautifully.
Serve: Your chicken salad is now ready to be served!
How to Serve Chicken Salad
Chicken salad is incredibly versatile in how you can serve it. The options are nearly endless:
On Greens: Serve your chicken salad on a bed of mixed greens or romaine lettuce for a wholesome meal. This option is light and allows the flavors of the salad to shine brightly.
In a Sandwich: Use your favorite bread, whether it’s whole grain, sourdough, or a soft roll. Scoop the chicken salad onto the bread and add some fresh lettuce or tomato for an ultimate lunch sandwich.
In Wraps: Spread the chicken salad onto a tortilla, then roll it up for an easy grab-and-go meal. You can add additional veggies like spinach or shredded carrots for an extra crunch.
On Crackers: For a light snack or appetizer, serve chicken salad on crackers. This makes for a delightful party platter option that your guests will love.
Stuffed Avocado: If you’re looking for a low-carb option, halve an avocado and fill it with chicken salad. It’s not only visually appealing but adds healthy fats to your meal.
Expert Tips: Chicken Salad
Chicken Options: You can use leftover roasted chicken, poached chicken, or even canned chicken if you’re short on time. Each option has its own flavor profiles, so choose based on what you have available and your preference.
Add Some Crunch: If you like a crunchier salad, consider adding chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans. This will give your chicken salad a delightful texture.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to swap out or add ingredients. Apples, cranberries, or even chopped pickles can add an unexpected twist to your salad.
Adjusting Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter salad, stick with the Greek yogurt. It can often enhance the creaminess without the need for as much mayonnaise.
Herbs Galore: Don’t hesitate to experiment with other herbs. Fresh parsley, basil, or tarragon could introduce unique flavors to your dish.
How to Store Chicken Salad
If you find yourself with leftovers—or you’re prepping ahead for busy days—you can store chicken salad easily. Transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. Properly stored, your chicken salad will stay fresh for up to two days.
To serve again, simply give it a quick stir, as some ingredients may settle. If the salad appears dry, add a splash of extra dressing or a bit of lemon juice to refresh the flavors.
Variations of Chicken Salad
Chicken salad is wonderfully adaptable. Here are some variations you might enjoy:
Mediterranean Chicken Salad: Swap out the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt and add feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and olives. This gives your chicken salad a vibrant Mediterranean flair.
Curried Chicken Salad: Introduce some curry powder along with added raisins or chopped apples for a sweet and spicy twist.
Tropical Chicken Salad: Add diced mango and shredded coconut for a refreshing take that’s perfect for summer.
Spicy Chicken Salad: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a bit of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Classic Waldorf Chicken Salad: Include diced apples, walnuts, and a touch of cinnamon for a sweet and satisfying flavor profile.
FAQ
What is chicken salad?
Chicken salad is a dish made primarily from cooked chicken mixed with other ingredients such as vegetables, fruits, and a dressing. It’s versatile and can be served on its own, in sandwiches, or as part of a salad.
How do you make chicken salad taste better?
To enhance the flavor of chicken salad, consider adding fresh herbs, spices, and seasonal fruits. Additionally, using high-quality mayonnaise or Greek yogurt can also elevate the taste.
How long can I store chicken salad in the refrigerator?
When correctly stored in an airtight container, chicken salad can last in the refrigerator for up to two days. Be sure to check for freshness before consuming.
Chicken Salad
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
Ingredients
- 1 large stalk celery diced (about 1/2 cup)
- 1/2 medium red onion finely diced (or 3 medium scallions)
- 1/2 cup seedless red grapes optional, quartered
- 1/2 medium lemon juiced (about 1 tablespoon)
- 4 sprigs fresh dill picked and coarsely chopped (about 1/4 cup)
- 1 lb. shredded cooked chicken (about 3 cups)
- 3/4 cup mayonnaise or 1/2 cup Greek yogurt plus 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 1/2 tsp. Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp. celery seeds optional
- Kosher salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Gather all your ingredients in a medium bowl for easy mixing.
- Dice the celery and red onion (or scallions) into small pieces.
- If using, quarter the grapes and add them to the bowl.
- Juice the lemon to yield about 1 tablespoon and add to the bowl.
- Chop the dill fronds and add to the bowl.
- Add the shredded chicken to the bowl.
- In the same bowl, mix in mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt and mayonnaise), Dijon mustard, and celery seeds, if using.
- Stir all ingredients until well combined. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving for the best flavor.
- Serve your chicken salad as desired!
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