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Classic Chicken Salad Recipe

Classic Chicken Salad Recipe


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4.6 from 34 reviews

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Savor the delightful classic chicken salad, a perfect blend of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and creamy dressing. Refreshing flavors and simple ingredients make this dish a delicious meal you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Proteins:

  • 2 cups (473 ml) cooked chicken, shredded or diced
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) slivered almonds or chopped walnuts

Dairy and Dressings:

  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) lemon juice

Vegetables and Add-ins:

  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) celery, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) grapes, halved
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

For Serving:

  • Lettuce leaves
  • Sliced tomatoes
  • Bread of choice (white, whole wheat, or a roll)

Instructions

  1. In a spacious mixing vessel, amalgamate shredded chicken with mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and fresh lemon juice, creating a smooth, uniform blend using a fork or spoon.
  2. Introduce crisp elements like finely diced celery, minced red onion, halved grapes, and optional chopped nuts, ensuring even distribution throughout the mixture.
  3. Calibrate the seasoning by incorporating salt and pepper, adjusting the creaminess and tanginess to personal preference through careful tasting and gentle stirring.
  4. Select fresh bread slices and layer with crisp lettuce leaves as a foundational base for the sandwich construction.
  5. Strategically place tomato slices atop the lettuce, then generously spread the prepared chicken salad mixture across the surface.
  6. Complete the sandwich by crowning with a second bread slice, or present as an open-faced creation for visual appeal.
  7. Optional: Garnish with freshly ground black pepper or delicate herb sprinklings to elevate the flavor profile.
  8. Slice the sandwich diagonally for an elegant presentation, serving immediately or storing in a sealed container within the refrigerator for later consumption.
  9. When ready to enjoy, ensure the chicken salad has been chilled at 40°F or below to maintain optimal freshness and food safety.

Notes

  • Customize the creamy base by swapping mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier, lighter version that cuts calories and adds protein.
  • Experiment with different herbs like dill, tarragon, or chives to elevate the flavor profile and create unique taste variations.
  • Make it gluten-free by serving the chicken salad in lettuce wraps, on cucumber rounds, or with gluten-free crackers instead of traditional bread.
  • Prep ingredients ahead of time and store separately to maintain crispness, preventing soggy textures and keeping vegetables crunchy until serving.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Blending
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 360
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 560mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 20g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 11g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg