There’s something quietly comforting about a well-made chicken salad, a dish that feels both familiar and endlessly adaptable.
It’s the kind of food that doesn’t demand attention but somehow always manages to be the star of the lunch table.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
This particular recipe, passed down from Kelsey’s mom who owned a luncheonette, has stood the test of time for good reason.
It strikes a perfect balance between being satisfyingly creamy and surprisingly light, making it a go-to for busy weeks.
Ingredients Needed for the Recipe
Gathering these simple components is the first step toward something truly special.
- Cooked Chicken Breast: Provides the hearty, protein-rich base for the salad.
- Light Mayonnaise: Creates the classic creamy texture while keeping things a bit lighter.
- Celery: Introduces a fresh, satisfying crunch to every single bite.
- Red Onion: Offers a sharp, pungent kick that cuts through the richness.
- Chicken Broth: Used sparingly to add moisture and depth of flavor without extra fat.
- Dijon Mustard: Brings a subtle, sophisticated tang to the mix.
- Seasoned Salt & Black Pepper: These essential seasonings build the foundational flavor profile.
How to Make Classic Chicken Salad?
The process is wonderfully straightforward, a matter of simple combining and gentle folding.
Step 1 – Prepare Your Ingredients
Begin by finely chopping your cooked chicken breast, celery, and red onion into small, uniform pieces.
This ensures every forkful has a perfect blend of all the components, no hunting for flavors.
Step 2 – Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate, medium-sized bowl, whisk together the light mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and that optional chicken broth.
The broth is a little secret for keeping the salad wonderfully moist without making it overly heavy.
Step 3 – Bring It All Together
Add the chopped chicken, celery, and red onion to the bowl with your creamy dressing.
Gently fold everything together until it’s evenly coated, being careful not to mash the chicken.
Step 4 – Season to Perfection
Now, season the mixture with the seasoned salt and a generous amount of black pepper.
Taste it, and don’t be shy about adjusting the seasonings until it sings just for you.
The Art of Cooking the Chicken
While rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver, poaching your own breasts is remarkably simple.
Just cover the chicken in broth, add a piece of celery for aroma, and bring it to a boil before letting it sit, covered, off the heat.
The result is incredibly tender, perfectly cooked chicken that’s ready for your salad.
Tips
A few small considerations can elevate your chicken salad from good to unforgettable.
- For the best texture, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.
- If you’re using pre-cooked chicken, make sure it has cooled completely before you mix it with the mayo.
- Chop your celery and onion finely enough that they distribute evenly, but not so small they lose their texture.
- Feel free to use a mix of light and dark meat from a rotisserie chicken for a deeper, richer flavor.
Creative Variations to Explore
The classic version is a masterpiece, but this recipe is a wonderful canvas for your own ideas.
Stir in a handful of toasted pecans or walnuts for a buttery crunch, or add some diced sweet apple or halved grapes.
For a herbaceous lift, a generous sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley works wonders, and a teaspoon of curry powder can completely transform the flavor profile.
Serving Your Masterpiece
This chicken salad’s versatility is one of its greatest strengths, happily adapting to whatever you’re craving.
Pile it high on a toasted everything bagel for a real treat, or spoon it into crisp lettuce cups for a light, low-carb meal.
It’s equally glorious sandwiched between two slices of sourdough or simply served over a bed of mixed greens with extra vegetables.
Proper Storage
Store any leftovers in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to four days.
The flavors often meld and become even more delicious after a night in the fridge, making it a perfect make-ahead option.
Classic Chicken Salad Recipe
Description
This classic chicken salad is light, high in protein, and perfect for meal prep or quick lunches. Made with tender chicken, crunchy celery, and a creamy yet lighter dressing, it’s a versatile dish you can enjoy in sandwiches, wraps, over greens, or even on its own. Dairy-free, gluten-free, and easily customizable!
ingredients
Instructions
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In a medium bowl, combine chopped chicken, light mayonnaise, celery, red onion, chicken broth (if using), Dijon mustard, seasoned salt, and black pepper.
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Mix well until all ingredients are evenly coated and the mixture is creamy.
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Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or broth as needed for moisture.
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Serve immediately or refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Enjoy in sandwiches, wraps, over lettuce, or with crackers.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 220kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 13g20%
- Saturated Fat 2g10%
- Cholesterol 65mg22%
- Sodium 520mg22%
- Potassium 290mg9%
- Total Carbohydrate 3g1%
- Sugars 1g
- Protein 22g44%
- Calcium 20 mg
- Iron 1 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Too dry? Add 1–2 tablespoons of chicken broth or fat-free Greek yogurt to moisten without extra calories.
- Make it creamy & healthier: Swap half the mayo with plain Greek yogurt.
- Add-ins: Try diced apples, grapes, nuts, dried cranberries, or fresh herbs like dill or parsley.
- Storage: Keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
