This Best Chicken Salad recipe is a perfect combination of tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a creamy, flavorful dressing. Whether served on a sandwich, with crackers, or as a standalone dish, it’s a crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress. Packed with protein and fresh ingredients, this salad is ideal for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep. The secret to its amazing taste lies in the balance of textures and flavors, making it the ultimate homemade chicken salad.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt (optional for a lighter version)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ cup celery, finely chopped
- ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ½ cup grapes, halved (optional for a touch of sweetness)
- ¼ cup almonds or pecans, chopped (optional for crunch)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional for a slight sweetness)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Cook and shred the chicken breast. You can either boil, bake, or use rotisserie chicken for extra flavor. Let it cool before mixing with other ingredients.
- Mix the Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and honey if using. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
- Chop the Vegetables and Nuts: Finely chop the celery, red onion, and parsley. If using grapes, cut them into halves. Chop almonds or pecans if adding for extra crunch.
- Combine Everything: Add the shredded chicken, chopped vegetables, grapes, and nuts to the bowl with the dressing. Stir gently until everything is well coated with the creamy dressing.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice based on your preference.
- Chill for Best Flavor: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors blend. This step enhances the taste and makes the salad more refreshing.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the chicken salad on toasted bread, in a wrap, with crackers, or over a bed of fresh greens. It’s delicious any way you choose to enjoy it.
Pro Tips
- For a healthier version, replace mayonnaise with more Greek yogurt.
- Adding a teaspoon of honey balances the flavors perfectly.
- Toast the nuts before adding them for an enhanced crunchy texture.
- If you like a little spice, add a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper.
This Best Chicken Salad is a perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and tangy flavors, making it an irresistible dish for any occasion. Enjoy the freshness and deliciousness in every bite!