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Classic Chicken Salad Recipe

Classic Chicken Salad Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.6 from 87 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes (using pre-cooked chicken)
  • Total Time: 45 minutes (includes chilling time)
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main-course
  • Method: No-cook
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

This classic chicken salad recipe is a creamy, satisfying favorite that’s perfect for lunches, picnics, or a quick weeknight meal. Tender chicken is combined with crisp celery, red onion, and a creamy mayonnaise-based dressing with a hint of tang from lemon juice and Dijon mustard. Serve it atop lettuce, in a sandwich, or with crackers for a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish.


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Chicken Salad

  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped or shredded
  • 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1/2 cup seedless red grapes or apple, halved (optional)

For the Dressing

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For Serving (Optional)

  • Lettuce leaves
  • Bread, croissants, or crackers

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients – Chop or shred the cooked chicken, finely dice the celery and red onion, and halve grapes or apple if using. Place everything in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Make the Dressing – In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
  3. Combine – Pour the dressing over the chicken and vegetables. Gently toss until everything is thoroughly coated, being careful not to mash the ingredients.
  4. Chill – Cover the bowl and chill the chicken salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  5. Serve – Scoop the chicken salad onto lettuce leaves, pile it onto bread for sandwiches, stuff it into croissants, or serve with crackers.

Notes

  • Use rotisserie or leftover chicken for convenience and extra flavor.
  • For a lighter salad, substitute half the mayo with Greek yogurt.
  • Customize with add-ins like chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or herbs (such as dill or parsley).
  • If preparing ahead, add grapes or apples just before serving to keep them fresh and crisp.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: about 1/2 cup
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 23g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 17g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg