What is chicken salad? What’s your favorite chicken Salad Recipe? Is chocolate chip cookie a childhood comfort food? What is the dish everyone asks for at potlucks, and it’s the one I make when I need a little taste of it. If you like a classic tuna salad, prepare to be converted; What is a chicken salad? What makes a good chicken salad? My grandma could charm the birds out of the trees with this recipe. I hope I can make you a convert today!

What is chicken salad?

Chicken salad, at its heart, is a simple dish – cooked chicken mixed with mayonnaise and other ingredients. Is there a blank canvas to let your creativity shine? Some people like it savory, some like a little kick. My grandma’s chicken Salad Recipe is a perfect balance of all those things. What is this creamy chicken salad made with? Celery and a hint of sweetness from grapes. Is it the ultimate comfort food that can be served in so many ways? Is it lettuce, or straight from the bowl? Is it classic, easy, and endlessly adaptable?

Why you’ll love this recipe?

What I love about this chicken Salad Recipe is how incredibly versatile it is, but also how delicious it can be. reliably delicious it always turns out. I mean, even if you only have a few basic ingredients on hand, you can still whip up ice cream. I am not kidding. What are some of the best batch recipes that will have everyone rav

Flavor:What is the balance of savory chicken, creamy mayo, crisp celery, and sweet grapes? Is it a flavor explosion in every bite? My kids, who are notoriously picky eaters, gobble it down every single time.
Simplicity:This recipe is ridiculously easy to make. Seriously. Even a beginner cook can nail this one. No fancy cooking involved, just mix and chill!
Cost-What are some good ways to use leftover chicken? Rotisserie chicken is a great budget-friendly meat.
Versatility:Can you serve this chicken salad in so many ways? What are some of the best sandwiches, wraps, crackers, etc.? What are some good ideas for lunch, picnics, parties, or a quick and easy dinner?

I’ve tried other Chicken Salad recipes, but none quite compare to this one. This one is special. It is like a warm hug, on the plate, you know? It’s familiar, comforting, and always hits the spot. If you are looking for a quick and easy meal or snack, you should try this!

How do I make chicken salad?

Quick Overview

What are some easy ways to make chicken salad? What are some good ways to shred chicken, chop up veggies, mix everything together with a fork? What is creamy dressing, and chill. What is the chilling time? It allows the flavors to meld together and create that signature chicken salad taste. Is the wait worth it?

Ingredients

What is the recipe for chicken salad?

3 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
1/2 cup mayonnaise (I prefer Duke’s, but any good quality mayo will do)
1/4 cup celery, finely chopped (adds a nice crunch)
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped (for a little zing!)
1/2 cup red grapes, halved (the sweetness is key!)
1/4 cup pecans, chopped (optional, but highly recommended)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for freshness) (see recipe)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (brightens up the flavors)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (adds a subtle tang)
Salt and pepper to taste.

Optional additions:

Hard-boiled eggs, chopped.
Dried cran
Apple, diced
Curry powder (for a little spice!)

How do I follow step

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

If you’re using rotisserie chicken, remove the skin and bones, and shred the meat. Can you use leftover Grilled Chicken? Just make sure it’s cooled completely before shredding.

Step 2: Chop the Veggies

How do you chop celery and red onion? I like to chop them small so they add crunch without being overpowering.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped celery, red onion, halved grapes, pecans (if using) and salt. Set aside. What is the difference between parsley and

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Set aside. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Dress the Salad

How do you serve chicken salad? If you over mix the chicken salad, it will become mushy.

Step 6: Chill

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. How do I make a chicken salad? I always do this before serving. It makes all the difference!

Step 7: Serve

What are some good ways to serve chicken salad on bread, crackers, lettuce cups, or straight from the bowl? I like to garnish with parsley or grapes.

What to serve it with?

What is the best chicken salad recipe? What are some of my favorite ways to serve it?

For lunch:On a croissant with lettuce and tomato, or in wrap with spinach and avocado.
For a picnic: With crackers, cheese, and fruit.
For a party: As an appetizer on cucumber slices or crostini.
What is a quick dinner?Over a bed of lettuce with sour cream.
For a snack: Straight from the bowl with a spoon (no judgement here!).

My family loves to have it on toasted sourdough bread with a side of potato chips. It’s a classic combination that never gets old. For a more elegant presentation, try serving it in individual lettuce cups with a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Whatever you choose, I guarantee this chicken salad will be a hit!

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken Salad

Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks that can really take your chicken salad to the next level. Here are my top tips:

Chicken quality: Use high-quality cooked chicken for the best flavor. Rotisserie chicken is a great option, but you can also use leftover grilled or baked chicken. Just make sure it’s not dry or overcooked.
Mayonnaise matters: The mayonnaise is the base of the dressing, so choose a good quality one that you love. I prefer Duke’s, but any creamy, flavorful mayo will work. Don’t skimp on this!
Chop finely: Finely chop the celery and red onion so they add crunch without being overpowering. No one wants big chunks of onion in their chicken salad!
Don’t overmix: Gently stir the ingredients together until everything is just combined. Overmixing can make the chicken salad mushy.
Chill time is crucial: Refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. The longer it chills, the better it tastes! I have made it the day before and it tastes so good, it makes it easy to prepare.
Adjust to taste: Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings to your liking. Add more salt, pepper, lemon juice, or Dijon mustard as needed. I always taste it and adjust before serving.
Get creative with additions: Feel free to add other ingredients to customize your chicken salad. Hard-boiled eggs, dried cranberries, apples, or curry powder are all great options.
Toast your pecans: Toasting the pecans before adding them to the chicken salad enhances their flavor and adds a nice crunch. I usually toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, until they’re fragrant.

I’ve also experimented with different variations of this recipe. One time, I added a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor. Another time, I used Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a healthier twist. Both were delicious! The most important thing is to have fun and make it your own!

Storing and Reheating Tips

Chicken salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Here are a few tips for storing and reheating:

Room Temperature: Do not leave chicken salad at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Bacteria can grow quickly at room temperature, so it’s important to keep it chilled.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help to keep it fresh and prevent it from drying out.
Freezer Instructions: I don’t recommend freezing chicken salad, as the mayonnaise can separate and the texture can become watery.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re serving the chicken salad on crackers or bread, wait to add the glaze until just before serving. This will prevent the crackers or bread from becoming soggy.

When you’re ready to serve the chicken salad, give it a good stir and add a little extra mayonnaise if it seems dry. It’s also a good idea to taste it and adjust the seasonings as needed. I find that the flavors tend to mellow out after being refrigerated, so you may need to add a little more salt, pepper, or lemon juice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Serve the chicken salad on gluten-free bread, crackers, or lettuce cups. You can also add gluten-free ingredients like rice noodles or quinoa for a heartier meal.

Do I have to use red grapes?

Nope! You can use any type of grape you like, or even substitute them with dried cranberries or raisins. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness level as needed.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?

Yes! Greek yogurt is a great substitute for mayonnaise. It’s lower in fat and calories, and it adds a nice tang to the chicken salad. Just be sure to use plain, nonfat Greek yogurt.

How can I make this spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of hot sauce, or a finely chopped jalapeño to the chicken salad. You can also use spicy mayonnaise or Dijon mustard.

What can I use instead of pecans?

You can use any type of nut you like, such as almonds, walnuts, or cashews. You can also omit the nuts altogether if you prefer. Sunflower seeds are a great nut-free alternative.

Final Thoughts

This chicken salad recipe is more than just a dish; it’s a taste of home. It’s a reminder of family gatherings, potlucks, and happy memories. It’s a recipe that’s been passed down through generations, and I’m so excited to share it with you. It’s easy to make, incredibly versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser. If you enjoy this chicken salad recipe, be sure to check out my other classic recipes, like my grandma’s famous potato salad and my mom’s amazing chocolate chip cookies. Happy cooking! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Leave a comment below to let me know what you think, and don’t forget to share your own variations. Happy cooking and Bon Appétit!