Looking for a chicken salad recipe that stands out from the crowd? This ultimate chicken salad combines fresh ingredients, incredible flavors, and an easy preparation process. Perfect for a light lunch, sandwich filling, or a party dish, this recipe guarantees compliments from everyone who tastes it. Whether you’re entertaining guests or preparing a quick meal for yourself, this chicken salad will become your go-to favorite.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise (adjust based on desired creaminess)
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/3 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/3 cup red grapes, halved (optional for sweetness)
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins
- 1/4 cup almonds or walnuts, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Lettuce leaves, crackers, or bread for serving
Instructions:
- Begin by preparing the chicken. If you don’t have cooked chicken on hand, poach or bake chicken breasts until fully cooked, then allow them to cool before shredding or dicing into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, honey, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk the mixture until smooth and well combined.
- Add the chopped celery, red onion, grapes (if using), cranberries or raisins, and nuts to the bowl. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients with the dressing.
- Incorporate the shredded or diced chicken into the bowl, ensuring every piece is evenly coated with the creamy mixture. Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
- Gently fold in the fresh parsley for a pop of flavor and color.
- Chill the chicken salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve the chicken salad on a bed of fresh lettuce leaves, as a sandwich filling, or alongside crackers for a versatile and delicious meal option.
- For added presentation, garnish with extra parsley or a sprinkle of nuts before serving.
Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Salad:
- For extra crunch, add diced apples or cucumbers.
- Prefer a smoky flavor? Use grilled chicken instead of plain cooked chicken.
- Substitute mayonnaise with mashed avocado for a healthier alternative.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding or omitting honey and grapes based on your taste preference.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for maximum freshness.
This chicken salad recipe brings together a delightful blend of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and savory flavors, making it truly the best chicken salad you’ll ever try. Perfect for any occasion, it’s simple to make yet unforgettable in taste!