Recipe for Chicken Salad: Easy, Creamy & Delicious

Recipe for chicken salad lovers, you’re in for a treat! This quick, creamy, and satisfying dish is perfect for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep. Whether served in a sandwich, wrap, or on its own, this classic chicken salad is a versatile favorite you’ll keep coming back to.

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⭐ Why You’ll Love This Chicken Salad Recipe

• ✅ Quick to Make – Ready in under 20 minutes
• ✅ Perfect for Meal Prep – Stays fresh in the fridge for days
• ✅ Healthy & Filling – High in protein and customizable
• ✅ Endlessly Versatile – Adjust flavors to suit your taste

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🛒 Ingredients Needed

Here’s everything you need to make a delicious, classic chicken salad:

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
• ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
• ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for freshness)
• Salt & black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped

Optional Add-Ins:

• ½ cup grapes, halved
• ¼ cup chopped nuts (walnuts or almonds)
• ¼ cup chopped apple
• 2 tablespoons dried cranberries

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👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Recipe for Chicken Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Use leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken, or boil 2 chicken breasts until cooked through and shred with forks.

Step 2: Chop the Veggies

Finely chop celery, onion, and herbs. If adding fruits or nuts, prepare those as well.

Step 3: Mix the Dressing

In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add chicken, veggies, and any extras to the bowl. Toss well to coat.

Step 5: Chill & Serve

For best flavor, chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Serve and enjoy!

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🔥 Pro Tips for the Perfect Recipe for Chicken Salad

• Use cold chicken – It mixes better and gives the salad a fresher taste.
• Dice ingredients evenly – Ensures balanced bites.
• Don’t overdo the mayo – Add a little at a time until it’s just creamy enough.
• Add acidity – A squeeze of lemon or a splash of vinegar brightens the flavor.

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🌀 Creative Variations of the Recipe for Chicken Salad

• 🥒 Healthy Chicken Salad – Swap mayo with Greek yogurt and add cucumber.
• 🧀 Spicy Chicken Salad – Add diced jalapeños, a dash of cayenne, or hot sauce.
• 🍎 Fruity Chicken Salad – Add apples, grapes, and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
• 🥑 Avocado Chicken Salad – Use mashed avocado instead of mayo.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• On toasted bread or croissants for a sandwich
• Wrapped in lettuce leaves for a low-carb option
• Inside a pita or tortilla wrap
• Scooped into avocados or tomatoes
• Alongside crackers or veggie sticks

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🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as mayo-based dressings don’t freeze well.
• Meal Prep: Make a large batch and use throughout the week for lunches.

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use canned chicken?

Yes! Canned chicken is convenient and works well in chicken salad. Just drain and shred before mixing.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use a dairy-free mayo or avocado for a creamy texture without dairy.

How long does chicken salad last?

Properly stored, it lasts up to 3–4 days in the fridge.

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🧾 Printable Recipe for Chicken Salad (Quick & Easy)

Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 0 mins (if using pre-cooked chicken)
Total Time: 15 mins
Servings: 4
Calories: ~250 per serving (without add-ins)

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded)
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 celery stalk, chopped
• ¼ cup red onion, chopped
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp parsley or dill, chopped

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix mayo, mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken, celery, onion, and herbs.
3. Stir to combine. Chill for 30 mins before serving.