The Best Homemade Basic Chicken Salad Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This simple chicken salad recipe is a crowd-pleaser, packed with flavor and ready in minutes. You’ll love how easy it is to customize with your favorite ingredients.
- Quick & easy – Perfect for busy days when you need a no-fuss meal.
- Versatile – Swap ingredients to make it creamy, crunchy, or tangy.
- Meal-prep friendly – Stays fresh for days, making lunches a breeze.
Recipe
Chicken salad is a classic dish that’s versatile, easy to prepare, and perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or as a standalone meal. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe delivers a delicious and satisfying result.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, celery, red onion, and parsley.
- Add the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard (if using) and mix until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Notes:
- For added texture, consider including chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter version.
Equipment:
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 0 minutes
Cuisine: American
Serving: 2–4 servings
Nutrition
This basic chicken salad recipe offers a balanced mix of protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 8g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 3g |
| Sodium | 450mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my chicken salad with a crisp side salad, like a mix of greens with cherry tomatoes and cucumber, for a fresh contrast. Sometimes, I’ll spoon it into a sandwich, layering it with lettuce and tomato on whole-grain bread for a satisfying meal. You can’t go wrong with either option—it’s all about what feels right for the moment.
Side Salad Options
While you’re whipping up that delicious chicken salad, adding a great side salad can really take your meal to the next level. I love tossing together a simple mixed greens salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette—it’s light and invigorating. If you’re feeling fancy, try a Caesar salad with crunchy croutons and Parmesan. A Greek salad with olives, feta, and red onions adds a bold flavor twist. For something different, a citrusy avocado and spinach salad pairs beautifully. Whatever you choose, make sure it complements your chicken salad without stealing the show. Side salads are the perfect finishing touch!
Sandwich Pairings
A crusty baguette or soft ciabatta can turn your chicken salad into a meal to remember. I love spreading it on toasted whole-grain bread for a healthy twist, or piling it into a buttery croissant for something indulgent. Warm, flaky biscuits add a Southern charm, while a hearty multigrain roll keeps things simple and satisfying. For a lighter option, I’ll wrap it in a fresh lettuce leaf or stuff it into a pita pocket. Don’t forget to pair it with crunchy pickles or crisp lettuce for extra texture. Any way you serve it, it’s sure to disappear fast!
