A perfect chicken salad is a combination of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a creamy dressing that brings everything together. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a sandwich filling, or a side dish, this chicken salad recipe is versatile and packed with flavor. It’s easy to prepare, requiring just a few ingredients, and can be customized to your taste. Follow this simple yet delicious recipe to create a chicken salad that is both nutritious and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or diced)
- ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a healthier option)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ cup celery (finely chopped)
- ½ cup red onion (finely chopped)
- ¼ cup green bell pepper (optional, finely chopped)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley (chopped)
- ½ cup grapes (halved) or dried cranberries for sweetness
- ¼ cup sliced almonds or walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken – Start by cooking the chicken breast if you haven’t already. You can boil, bake, or grill it based on your preference. Once cooked, let it cool before shredding or dicing into bite-sized pieces.
- Chop the Vegetables – Finely chop the celery, red onion, green bell pepper, and fresh parsley. If using grapes, slice them in half. If using dried cranberries, ensure they are evenly distributed.
- Mix the Dressing – In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir well to blend all the flavors.
- Combine Everything – Add the chopped vegetables, grapes (or cranberries), and nuts (if using) to the bowl with the dressing. Gently mix until everything is well coated.
- Add the Chicken – Incorporate the shredded or diced chicken into the mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure every piece is covered with the dressing and the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Chill Before Serving – Cover the bowl and let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together, making the salad more flavorful.
- Serve and Enjoy – Serve your chicken salad chilled on a bed of fresh lettuce, as a sandwich filling, or with crackers for a delightful meal.
Tips for the Best Chicken Salad
- For extra flavor, use rotisserie chicken instead of plain cooked chicken.
- Adjust the mayonnaise or Greek yogurt based on your desired consistency.
- If you prefer a crunchier texture, add chopped apples or cucumbers.
- Toast the nuts before adding them to enhance their nutty flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This chicken salad recipe is not only simple to make but also incredibly delicious and healthy. It’s perfect for meal prep, gatherings, or quick meals. Enjoy your homemade chicken salad packed with freshness and goodness!