Chicken Salad Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This chicken salad is a crowd-pleaser, packed with fresh flavors and easy to make. You’ll love how simple it is to whip up for lunch, picnics, or a quick dinner.
- Creamy and crunchy – The perfect mix of tender chicken, crisp veggies, and a smooth dressing.
- Versatile – Enjoy it on bread, in a wrap, or straight from the bowl.
- Meal-prep friendly – Stays fresh for days, making it great for busy schedules.
Recipe
This fresh and flavorful chicken salad is perfect for light lunches, picnics, or quick meals. Packed with tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a creamy dressing, it’s versatile and easy to customize.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup grapes, halved (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or almonds (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley or dill) for garnish
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, mix mayonnaise and Dijon mustard until smooth.
- Add chicken, celery, red onion, and any optional ingredients like grapes or nuts. Toss gently to coat.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes:
- Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Add diced apples or dried cranberries for extra sweetness.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (if using precooked chicken)
Servings: 4
Nutrition
This chicken salad is a healthy and balanced meal option. It provides a good mix of protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients.
| Nutrition Facts | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 10g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 5g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my chicken salad with fresh bread, like crusty baguettes or soft croissants, for a satisfying crunch. A simple side salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette brightens up the meal without overpowering the flavors. You can also try adding some sliced veggies or fruit for extra freshness and color.
Fresh Bread Options
When I’m serving chicken salad, I always think about the bread—it’s the perfect partner to make the meal feel complete. My go-to is artisan bread, like a crusty baguette or sourdough, because it adds texture and flavor. Whole grain options, like multigrain or seeded loaves, bring a nutty richness that pairs well with the creamy salad. Sometimes, I’ll toast slices lightly for extra crunch. Soft rolls or croissants work too, especially for sandwiches. No matter what I choose, fresh bread turns a simple chicken salad into something special. It’s all about balance—soft, chewy, or crisp, the right bread makes every bite better.
Side Salad Ideas
A great side salad can turn chicken salad from a simple dish into a satisfying meal. I love using seasonal ingredients to keep things fresh and exciting—think crisp apples in fall or juicy tomatoes in summer. For flavor combinations, I’ll toss together mixed greens, crunchy cucumbers, and tangy feta, then drizzle with a zesty lemon vinaigrette. Sometimes, I’ll add roasted nuts or seeds for extra texture. A simple Caesar or a citrusy kale salad also pairs beautifully. Don’t be afraid to experiment—mixing sweet, salty, and tangy elements can make your meal feel special without much effort.
