The Best Homemade Simple Chicken Salad Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade chicken salad is a crowd-pleaser that’s quick to make and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for busy days, summer picnics, or a light lunch that keeps you feeling satisfied. Creamy and crunchy texture from the mayo and veggies makes every bite a delight. Customizable to your taste, you can swap ingredients or add your favorites like grapes or nuts. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken, making it both delicious and practical.
Recipe
This homemade chicken salad recipe is a classic dish that’s both versatile and easy to prepare. Perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or a light meal, it combines tender chicken with creamy mayonnaise and a mix of crunchy vegetables for a satisfying texture and flavor.
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 lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts)
- Optional: 1/4 cup dried fruit (e.g., cranberries, raisins)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, celery, and red onion.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until well coated.
- Fold in optional nuts or dried fruit if desired.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Notes:
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook and shred your own chicken breasts or thighs.
- Adjust mayonnaise quantity for a creamier or lighter texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Knife and cutting board
Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 0 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes (including chilling)
Cuisine: American
Serving: Serves 4
Nutrition
This homemade chicken salad recipe is a nutritious option packed with protein and essential vitamins. Below is the nutrition information per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Fat | 22g |
| Carbohydrates | 6g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 2g |
| Sodium | 380mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade chicken salad with fresh side dishes, like crisp greens or crunchy veggies, to keep things light and balanced. If I’m craving something heartier, I’ll grab a crusty baguette or buttery croissants to make a satisfying sandwich. Either way, it’s all about mixing textures and flavors to make the meal feel complete.
Side Dishes
When you’re serving up a fresh batch of homemade chicken salad, pairing it with the right sides can turn a simple meal into something special. I love crisp, fresh veggies like cucumber slices or cherry tomatoes—they add a revitalizing crunch. A tangy coleslaw or pickled veggies bring a nice zing that balances the creamy salad. For something heartier, try a quinoa or pasta salad. And don’t forget chips or crackers for a bit of salty contrast! These sides keep things light but satisfying, letting the chicken salad shine. Mix and match to find your perfect combo—it’s all about what you love!
Bread Options
While chicken salad is delicious on its own, serving it with the right bread can take it to a whole new level! I love a classic croissant—its buttery layers pair perfectly with the creamy salad. For something heartier, try whole-grain bread; its nutty flavor adds depth. If you’re craving crunch, toasted sourdough or a crusty baguette works wonders. For a lighter option, lettuce wraps or pita pockets keep things fresh. And don’t forget mini slider buns for cute, bite-sized sandwiches! Experiment to find your favorite—each choice brings its own twist to this simple yet satisfying dish.
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