Why Make This Recipe
Best-Ever Chicken Salad is a classic dish that combines simple ingredients to create a flavorful meal. Whether you are looking for a quick lunch, a picnic dish, or a light dinner, this chicken salad ticks all the boxes. It is easy to prepare, delicious, and can be customized to suit your taste. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken!
How to Make Best-Ever Chicken Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup celery, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup grapes, halved
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Lettuce leaves, for serving
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, and Dijon mustard. Mix until well combined.
- Add the diced celery, red onion, and halved grapes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir gently until all ingredients are incorporated.
- For best flavor, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Serve on a bed of lettuce leaves or in a sandwich.
How to Serve Best-Ever Chicken Salad
Best-Ever Chicken Salad can be served in various ways. It is excellent on a bed of fresh lettuce leaves, making it a healthy option. You can also use it as a filling in sandwiches or wraps. For a heartier meal, try serving it with whole grain crackers or on top of a salad. The options are endless!
How to Store Best-Ever Chicken Salad
To store your Best-Ever Chicken Salad, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to prepare it in advance, you can make the salad and store it without the lettuce. Simply add the lettuce right before serving for the best texture.
Tips to Make Best-Ever Chicken Salad
- Make sure to use well-cooked chicken for the best texture.
- To save time, you can buy rotisserie chicken and shred it.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference.
- For an extra crunch, consider adding nuts or seeds.
Variation
Feel free to customize this recipe! You can add different ingredients such as diced apples, herbs like dill or parsley, or swap grapes for dried cranberries. Experiment to find your perfect combination!
FAQs
1. Can I use leftover chicken?
Yes! Leftover chicken works great in this recipe and can save you time.
2. Is there a substitute for mayonnaise?
You can use more Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise, or try avocado for a creamy texture.
3. Can I freeze chicken salad?
It’s best not to freeze it. The texture of the salad may change when thawed. Instead, store it in the refrigerator for a few days.
Best-Ever Chicken Salad
Equipment
- large bowl
- small bowl
- whisk
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded or diced
- 1 stalk celery finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion finely diced
Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded or diced cooked chicken, finely chopped celery, and finely diced red onion.
Make the Dressing
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
Combine
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
Chill and Serve
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled as desired, on bread, lettuce wraps, or with crackers.