The Best Chicken Salad Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a well-made chicken salad—creamy, packed with flavor, and loaded with satisfying textures.

What makes this recipe special? A perfect balance of tender chicken, crisp veggies, and a creamy, tangy dressing with just the right amount of crunch. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite add-ins. Let’s dive in!

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes (if cooking chicken)
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4-6

This chicken salad is:
✔️ Creamy & tangy – thanks to a mix of mayo and Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
✔️ Crunchy & fresh – with celery, red onion, and optional nuts or apples
✔️ Easy to customize – swap ingredients based on what you love
✔️ Meal-prep friendly – stays fresh for days in the fridge

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Ingredients List

For the Chicken Salad:

• 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great!)
• ½ cup celery, finely chopped (adds crunch)
• ¼ cup red onion, finely diced (for a mild bite)
• ½ cup grapes, halved (optional, for sweetness)
• ⅓ cup chopped walnuts or almonds (optional, for crunch)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or dill, chopped (brightens the flavor)

For the Dressing:

• ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
• ¼ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt (adds tanginess)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (depth of flavor)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed, for brightness)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Pro Tip: For extra flavor, add a pinch of paprika or a dash of hot sauce!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook & Prep the Chicken

• If using raw chicken, poach or bake 2 large chicken breasts (seasoned with salt & pepper) until fully cooked (165°F internal temp). Let cool, then shred or dice.
• Shortcut: Use rotisserie chicken for quick prep!

1. Chop the Veggies & Extras

• Finely dice celery, red onion, and any additional mix-ins (grapes, apples, nuts).

1. Make the Dressing

• In a large bowl, whisk together mayo, sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

1. Combine Everything

• Add chicken, veggies, and herbs to the dressing. Gently fold until evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

1. Chill & Serve

• For best flavor, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This lets the flavors meld together beautifully.

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Tips for Success

✅ Don’t overmix – Gently fold to keep the texture perfect.
✅ Adjust creaminess – Add more mayo/yogurt if you prefer it saucier.
✅ Boost flavor – Let it chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
✅ Customize it – Try adding dried cranberries, avocado, or bacon!

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Sandwich: Pile onto croissants, sourdough, or wraps.
• Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, serve in butter lettuce cups.
• Salad Style: On a bed of greens with avocado and cherry tomatoes.
• Crackers or Toast: Perfect for a light brunch or appetizer.

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Storage Tips

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Not recommended (may become watery upon thawing).

FAQs

Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, but fresh or rotisserie chicken tastes best. Drain canned chicken well.

What can I substitute for mayo?
Greek yogurt, sour cream, or mashed avocado work well.

Can I make it ahead?
Absolutely! It tastes even better the next day.

Final Thoughts

This chicken salad recipe is a foolproof favorite—creamy, crunchy, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re packing lunches or hosting a summer gathering, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. Give it a try, and don’t forget to tag me if you share your creation!