Introduction
Chicken salad is a timeless, versatile dish that fits perfectly into any meal occasion—whether as a quick lunch, a light dinner, or an elegant side dish for gatherings. Packed with tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and a creamy, tangy dressing, a good chicken salad recipe provides satisfying textures and bright flavors. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover everything you need to create a delicious chicken salad, plus explore variations to keep it fresh and exciting.
Table of contents
Table of Contents
Classic Chicken Salad Recipe: Ingredients and Preparation
PrintChicken Salad Recipe: A Classic with Endless Possibilities
This classic chicken salad is a fresh, protein-packed dish featuring tender diced chicken, crisp celery, juicy grapes, and toasted pecans all tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing made from mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, and fresh herbs. It’s quick and easy to prepare, perfect for a light lunch, sandwich filling, or a crowd-pleasing side dish. This versatile chicken salad offers delicious textures and balanced flavors, with endless variations to customize your perfect bite. Serve chilled and enjoy the satisfying crunch combined with savory creaminess.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 serving 1x
- Category: Salad, Main course, Lunch, Side dish
- Method: No cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 pound cooked chicken breast meat, diced (rotisserie, baked, or poached)
- 2 cups seedless red grapes, halved (or substitute diced apples or pears)
- 1 cup celery (approximately 2–3 stalks), sliced thin lengthwise
- 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion (or use sweet Vidalia onion or green onion)
- 1 cup toasted pecans, coarsely chopped (or substitute walnuts, sliced almonds, or cashews)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (real or homemade)
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt for a lighter twist
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill or parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Toast pecans: Place pecans on a dry skillet over medium to low heat. Toss frequently until golden and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Remove and coarsely chop once cooled.
- Combine salad ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the diced chicken, halved grapes, sliced celery, chopped onion, and toasted pecans.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, fresh dill, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Mix dressing with salad: Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill and serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to meld flavors. Serve chilled as a standalone salad, in sandwich bread, or wrapped in lettuce leaves.
Notes
- For best results, use freshly cooked chicken breasts or rotisserie chicken.
- Toast nuts to enhance flavor and crunch.
- Substitute sour cream for Greek yogurt to lighten the dressing.
- Add fruits like apples or dried cranberries for a sweeter twist.
- Fresh herbs such as dill or parsley brighten the flavor.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Perfect for sandwiches, lettuce wraps, or over a bed of greens.
Nutrition
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Chicken Salad Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound cooked chicken breast meat, diced (rotisserie, baked, or poached)
- 2 cups seedless red grapes, halved (or substitute diced apples or pears)
- 1 cup celery (approximately 2-3 stalks), sliced thin lengthwise
- 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion (or use sweet Vidalia onion or green onion)
- 1 cup toasted pecans, coarsely chopped (or substitute walnuts, sliced almonds, or cashews)
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (real or homemade)
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt for a lighter twist
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill or parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Preparation Time and Yield
- Preparation time: 15 minutes (assuming chicken is pre-cooked)
- Total time: 15 minutes (plus optional chilling)
- Yield: Serves 4 generously
Instructions
- Toast pecans: Place pecans on a dry skillet over medium to low heat. Toss frequently until golden and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Remove and coarsely chop once cooled.
- Combine salad ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the diced chicken, halved grapes, sliced celery, chopped onion, and toasted pecans.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, fresh dill, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Mix dressing with salad: Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Chill and serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to meld flavors. Serve chilled as a standalone salad, in sandwich bread, or wrapped in lettuce leaves.
Nutritional Information Per Serving (Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 350 | – |
| Total Fat | 21 g | 27% |
| Saturated Fat | 3.5 g | 18% |
| Unsaturated Fat | ~16 g | – |
| Trans Fat | 0 g | – |
| Cholesterol | 90 mg | 30% |
| Sodium | 310 mg | 13% |
| Carbohydrates | 9 g | 3% |
| Fiber | 2 g | 7% |
| Sugars | 5 g | – |
| Protein | 30 g | 54% |
*Percent daily values based on a 2,000-calorie diet.
Category, Cuisine, and Method
- Category: Salad, Main course, Lunch, Side dish
- Method: Mixing, no heat required if using pre-cooked chicken
- Cuisine: American with global twists possible
Variations to Keep Your Chicken Salad Exciting
Nuts and Seeds
Swap pecans for walnuts, almonds, cashews, sunflower seeds, or pepitas for different crunch and flavor profiles.
Fruit Options
Instead of grapes, try diced green apples, pears, dried cranberries, raisins, or fresh pineapple for a sweeter note.
Vegetables
Replace celery with diced bell pepper, cucumber, or green apple for varying textures.
Protein Choices
You can use cooked chicken thighs, rotisserie chicken, shredded canned chicken (in a pinch), or a mix of poultry.
Creamy Dressings
Try replacing sour cream with Greek yogurt or use half mayonnaise and half yogurt for a lighter dressing. A touch of Dijon mustard or curry powder in the dressing can add depth.
Herb Twists
Fresh tarragon, chives, basil, or cilantro can add unique flavor dimensions.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic sandwich: Layer chicken salad on whole grain bread with lettuce and tomato.
- Lettuce wraps: For a low-carb option, serve in romaine or butter leaf lettuce.
- Salad bowl: Serve atop mixed greens, baby spinach, or arugula for a healthy meal.
- Stuffed fruits or veggies: Spoon chicken salad into hollowed avocados, tomatoes, or bell peppers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I prepare chicken salad in advance?
Yes, chicken salad can be made 1-2 days ahead. Keeping it chilled allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
How long will homemade chicken salad keep?
Stored in an airtight container, it lasts 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
Greek yogurt or sour cream works well for a lighter alternative.
Can I freeze chicken salad?
Freezing is not recommended as the creamy dressing doesn’t freeze well and tends to separate.
How do I make chicken salad healthier?
Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise, increase fresh veggies, and skip the nuts if cutting fat.
Conclusion
The chicken salad recipe is a delicious and nutritious classic that can be easily adapted to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. It’s quick to prepare, packed with protein, and ideal for any season or occasion. With endless ways to customize this salad—whether through nuts, fruits, herbs, or dressings—it can remain a fresh, exciting dish on your table indefinitely. Enjoy it plain, in sandwiches, wraps, or on greens for a satisfying and wholesome meal.
