Creamy Chicken Salad Recipe
Description:
This creamy chicken salad is rich, satisfying, and incredibly versatile. Made with tender chicken, crunchy celery, crisp red onions, and a perfectly balanced creamy dressing, it’s ideal for sandwiches, lettuce wraps, or enjoyed on its own. Perfect for picnics, lunchboxes, or a quick protein-packed meal!
⏱️ Time Required:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes (if cooking chicken from scratch)
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients (Serves 4):
2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped (rotisserie works too)
½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for lighter version)
1 tbsp Dijon mustar
1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed
1 celery stalk, finely chopped
¼ cup red onion, finely diced
1–2 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped
Salt & pepper to taste
Optional: ¼ cup sliced grapes or chopped apples, 2 tbsp toasted almonds or walnuts
Instructions:
Cook the Chicken (if needed):
Boil or poach 2 chicken breasts for 15–20 minutes until fully cooked. Let cool and shred or chop.
Prepare the Dressing
In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Combine the Salad:
In a large bowl, add chicken, celery, onions, and parsley. Pour in the dressing and mix well to coat.
Optional Add-ins:
Stir in grapes, apples, or nuts for added flavor and texture.
Chill and Serve:
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving for best flavor. Enjoy in sandwiches, wraps, or on greens!
️ Serving Suggestions:
Serve in croissants, wraps, or on toasted bread.
Scoop into lettuce cups for a low-carb version.
Top a bed of mixed greens for a hearty salad bowl.
Nutritional Info (Per Serving, ~1 cup):
Nutrient Amount
Calories ~320 kcal
Protein 25g
Carbohydrates 3g
Fats 23g
Fiber 0.6g
Sugar 1g
Sodium ~450mg
(Varies with mayo/yogurt choice and add-ins)
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! It’s even better after a few hours in the fridge. Best consumed within 3 days.
Q: What’s a healthier option than mayo?
A: Greek yogurt or mashed avocado can be used for a lighter and nutritious twist.
Q: Can I freeze chicken salad?
A: It’s not recommended. The mayo can separate and fresh veggies lose texture upon thawing.
Q: What chicken works best?
A: Poached, roasted, grilled, or rotisserie chicken all work great. Just ensure it’s tender and fully cooked.
Q: How can I make it more flavorful?
A: Add a pinch of garlic powder, smoked paprika, or chopped pickles for an extra punch.