A classic chicken salad is the perfect blend of simplicity and flavor, offering a delicious, quick meal that never disappoints. This easy-to-make dish features tender chicken, crunchy celery, and a creamy dressing with just the right hint of tang from Dijon mustard. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a hearty sandwich filling, or a flavorful salad topping, this recipe fits the bill perfectly.

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What makes this chicken salad truly stand out is its versatility. The recipe’s core ingredients are simple, allowing for plenty of customization to suit your taste. Add red grapes for a touch of sweetness, or throw in some chopped nuts for extra crunch. This classic chicken salad is perfect for meal prepping, as it stays fresh and flavorful, ready to be served in various ways.

Serve it in a sandwich, wrap it in a tortilla, or simply enjoy it as is over a bed of greens. This recipe brings together wholesome ingredients for a delicious, satisfying meal that you can make in just minutes. It’s a timeless favorite that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Main Ingredients for Classic Chicken Salad

Cooked Chicken – The star of the dish, providing a hearty, protein-packed base. You can use leftover chicken, rotisserie chicken, or poached chicken for this recipe.
Mayonnaise – Adds a rich, creamy texture and binds all the ingredients together.
Celery – Gives a satisfying crunch and a fresh, slightly peppery flavor that balances the creaminess of the dressing.
Green Onion – Brings a mild, sweet onion flavor to the salad, adding depth without overpowering the other ingredients.
Dijon Mustard – Adds a subtle tang and a bit of heat, elevating the overall flavor profile.
Seasoned Salt and Black Pepper – Enhances the flavor of the salad, providing the right amount of seasoning.
Fresh Dill (Optional) – Offers a bright, herbaceous note that complements the chicken and adds freshness.

Quick Steps to a Delicious Chicken Salad

Combine the cooked chicken, mayonnaise, diced celery, and sliced green onion in a mixing bowl. Add the Dijon mustard, seasoned salt, and black pepper.
Stir everything together until well combined, ensuring all the ingredients are evenly coated with the creamy dressing.
Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or pepper if needed.
Serve immediately as a sandwich filling, a wrap, or over a bed of greens for a light and refreshing salad.

Tips for the Best Chicken Salad

Use rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken for a quick and easy base. Shredded or chopped, both work well!
For a healthier twist, swap out some or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
To add a sweet and crunchy contrast, mix in chopped apples or red grapes.
Fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or chives can be added for extra flavor.

Recipe Variations to Try

For a fun twist on this classic, try adding different ingredients to suit your taste. Swap the green onion for finely diced red onion or chives for a slightly sharper flavor. Nuts like pecans or almonds add a lovely crunch, while fruits like chopped red grapes or apples bring sweetness. You can also experiment with different herbs or seasonings to create a flavor profile that suits your palate.

How to Store Your Classic Chicken Salad

To keep your chicken salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re making it ahead, avoid adding any fruits or nuts until just before serving to maintain their texture and crunch. When ready to eat, give it a good stir to redistribute the dressing and refresh the flavors. This dish doesn’t freeze well due to the mayonnaise, so it’s best enjoyed within a few days of preparation.

With its simple ingredients and endless customization options, this classic chicken salad is a versatile and delicious choice for any meal!