Discovering a Family Favorite
My Favorite is Classic Chicken Salad and I love to cook, Growing up the Classic Chicken Salad was a staple in our household. My mom would whip it up every Sunday, and the aroma of freshly chopped celery and onions mingling with tender chicken would fill the kitchen. It was our go-to dish for picnics, family gatherings, and even casual weeknight dinners. I remember the joy of watching her prepare it, her hands moving deftly as she combined the ingredients, each addition bringing the salad to life. It was more than just food; it was a tradition that brought us together.
The Joy of Sharing
As I got older and started cooking for myself, the Classic Chicken Salad became one of my signature dishes. I loved sharing it with friends, who were always impressed by its simple yet delicious flavors. The creamy dressing, made with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and a splash of lemon juice, perfectly complemented the crunch of the celery and the slight bite of the red onion. I often garnished it with fresh parsley, which added a burst of color and freshness. It was always a hit at potlucks and parties, disappearing quickly as everyone came back for seconds.
A Healthier Twist
Over time, I experimented with different variations of the recipe to suit various dietary preferences. I discovered that Greek yogurt could be a great substitute for mayonnaise, giving the salad a lighter, tangier taste. Swapping red onion with green onions provided a milder flavor, and sometimes, I added a handful of chopped nuts for an extra crunch. These small changes kept the dish exciting and allowed me to cater to my friends’ and family’s diverse tastes. It was wonderful to see how a simple recipe could be adapted while still retaining its core essence.
Bringing It All Together
Now, every time I make Classic Chicken Salad, I’m reminded of those cherished family moments and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones. It’s a dish that’s easy to prepare but packed with flavor, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed on a bed of mixed greens, in a sandwich, or straight from the bowl, it never fails to satisfy. As I chop the vegetables and mix the dressing, I feel a sense of connection to my past and a thrill for the delicious meal ahead. This salad, in its simplicity, truly captures the heart of wholesome, home-cooked food.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes-Classic Chicken Salad
- For the best texture and flavor, poach the chicken breast in seasoned water. This keeps it tender and juicy.
- If using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise, you might need to add a splash of olive oil to achieve a creamier consistency.
- Ensure the celery and red onion are finely chopped to maintain a harmonious texture throughout the salad.
- Taste the salad before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. Sometimes a bit more lemon juice or a pinch of salt can make a big difference.
- Toast the nuts before adding them to the salad to enhance their flavor and crunch.
- For a low-carb option, serve the chicken salad in lettuce wraps. For added variety, it can also be used as a filling for whole grain wraps or pita bread.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld together nicely as it sits.
Classic Chicken Salad
4
servings20
minutes10
minutes250
kcal30
minutesDive into the delightful world of our Classic Chicken Salad! This recipe is a perfect blend of tender chicken, crisp veggies, and a creamy dressing that will leave your taste buds dancing. It’s not just a salad; it’s a wholesome meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned cook, this dish is sure to impress. Get ready to enjoy a burst of flavors in every bite!
Ingredients
- Chicken
2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- Vegetables
2 celery stalks, finely chopped
1/2 red onion, finely diced
- Dressing
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Herbs
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Alternative Ingredients:
Chicken: Substitute with turkey breast for a different flavor.
Mayonnaise: Use Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Dijon Mustard: Replace with yellow mustard if preferred.
Red Onion: Swap with green onions for a milder taste.
- Alternative Ingredients:
Chicken: Substitute with turkey breast for a different flavor.
Mayonnaise: Use Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Dijon Mustard: Replace with yellow mustard if preferred.
Red Onion: Swap with green onions for a milder taste.
Directions
- Prepare Chicken – Dice the cooked chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. This should take about 5 minutes.
- Chop Vegetables – Finely chop the celery stalks and dice the red onion. This step should take around 5 minutes.
- Mix Dressing – In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and fresh lemon juice. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir until well blended; this should take about 3 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients – Add the diced chicken and chopped vegetables to the bowl with the dressing. Mix until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. This should take about 5 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve – Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the salad for garnish. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to eat.
Equipment
- chef’s knife
- cutting board
- mixing bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 250kcal
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Potassium: 400mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Vitamin A: 500IU
- Vitamin C: 10mg
- Calcium: 30mg
- Iron: 1mg
FAQ-Classic Chicken Salad
Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Yes, leftover rotisserie chicken works great in this recipe. It adds an extra layer of flavor and makes the prep even quicker.
How can I make this salad dairy-free?
The recipe is already dairy-free. Just ensure your mayonnaise is dairy-free as well.
Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Absolutely! This salad can be made a day in advance. Just keep it in the fridge and give it a good stir before serving.
What can I use instead of celery?
If you’re not a fan of celery, you can use other crunchy vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers.
How do I keep the salad from getting watery?
To prevent the salad from getting watery, make sure to pat the vegetables dry after washing them. Also, consider salting the celery lightly and letting it sit for a few minutes before rinsing and adding it to the salad. This draws out excess moisture.
