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This easy chicken salad bursts with fresh flavors and a perfect balance of creamy and crunchy textures. It’s a quick and satisfying dish great for lunches, picnics, or light dinners. Using simple ingredients you probably already have on hand, it comes together in minutes without any cooking required.
I first made this chicken salad for a busy weeknight meal and was amazed at how much the whole family enjoyed it. It’s now a staple when I want something tasty and fuss-free.
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken: four cups shredded or diced for tender protein
- Mayonnaise: one cup provides creaminess and binds the salad
- Celery: half cup diced finely for fresh crunch
- Red onion or shallots: one third cup diced adds a mild sharpness
- Green onions or chives: two tablespoons sliced introduce a subtle onion flavor
- Dijon mustard: one tablespoon gives a slight tang and depth
- Lemon juice: two teaspoons brightens and balances richness
- Kosher salt: half teaspoon enhances all the flavors
- Black pepper: quarter teaspoon adds gentle warmth
- Choose fresh celery that snaps easily and mayonnaise with good quality oil for the creamiest texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Salad:
- In a large bowl add the chicken, mayonnaise, celery, red onion, green onions, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir gently yet thoroughly until everything is evenly coated and the salad reaches your preferred creaminess. Take your time to mix well so all the flavors meld perfectly.
- Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste your salad and season with more salt and pepper if needed. This step lets you tailor the salad to your liking and brings out the best in each ingredient.
- To Serve or Store:
- Serve immediately for the freshest taste or cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to eat. Chicken salad flavors improve a bit after chilling but aim to consume within five days for the best quality.
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I especially love the crunch that celery brings here. The first time I served this salad at a family gathering everyone asked for seconds, proving that simple ingredients done right create memorable meals.
Storage Tips
Store chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Use within five days for optimal freshness and flavor. Before serving leftover salad, give it a gentle stir and taste to see if it needs any seasoning adjustments. Avoid freezing as mayonnaise-based salads can separate and lose their creamy texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
Greek yogurt can replace all or part of the mayonnaise for a lighter yet tangy twist. If you prefer a milder onion flavor, substitute shallots for red onions or omit them entirely. For extra crunch and nutrition, try adding chopped apples or walnuts. Avocado can also be mixed in for creaminess and healthy fats.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chicken salad in a bed of crisp lettuce for a low-carb meal or stuff it into pita pockets or croissants for delicious sandwiches. It pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit or veggie sticks on the side. You can also scoop it onto crackers or toasted baguette slices for easy appetizers.
Pro Tips
- Always use well-cooked chicken, either roasted or poached, for the best texture and flavor.
- If using leftover chicken, shred it finely to help the salad bind better.
- Add lemon juice gradually and taste as you go, to avoid overpowering the delicate flavor balance.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of chicken works best?
Cooked, shredded or diced chicken breast is ideal for a tender texture that blends well with the other ingredients.
- → Can I substitute mayonnaise in the dressing?
Yes, using Greek yogurt or a light vinaigrette can add creaminess while offering a different flavor profile.
- → How can I add extra crunch to the dish?
Including fresh celery and green onions provides crispness; you might also consider toasted nuts for additional texture.
- → Is it important to dice the onions finely?
Finely diced red onions or shallots ensure a subtle bite without overpowering, balancing the overall taste.
- → What is the best way to store this dish?
Keep it refrigerated in an airtight container for up to five days to maintain freshness and flavor.
- → Can lemon juice be replaced or omitted?
Lemon juice adds brightness and balances the richness. If unavailable, a mild vinegar can act as a substitute.