Description

This Ultimate Chicken Salad recipe is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for a light lunch or an easy dinner. Made with tender cooked chicken mixed with a creamy dressing of mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and fresh herbs, it’s both refreshing and satisfying. Optional add-ins like dried cranberries, grapes, or nuts provide a delightful contrast of texture and sweetness, making this chicken salad a versatile staple you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients

Chicken Salad Ingredients

3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
1/4 cup finely chopped celery
1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional add-ins: 1/4 cup dried cranberries, grapes, or chopped nuts

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Instructions

Prepare the Dressing: In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended to form a creamy dressing.
Mix the Salad: Add the shredded or diced cooked chicken, finely chopped celery, red onion, and chopped fresh parsley into the bowl with the dressing. Stir gently but thoroughly to ensure the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated.
Season to Taste: Taste the chicken salad and adjust the seasoning by adding additional salt, black pepper, or lemon juice as desired to enhance the flavors according to your preference.
Chill for Best Flavor: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and intensify.
Serve: Serve the chicken salad cold as a filling for sandwiches, wraps, on a bed of fresh greens, or accompanied by crackers for a delicious and versatile meal or snack.

Notes

For a lighter option, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt without compromising creaminess.
Add dried cranberries, grapes, or chopped nuts to introduce sweet and crunchy textures.
Use freshly cooked chicken or leftover roasted chicken for best results.
Make ahead and refrigerate for up to 2 days for meal prep convenience.
Adjust the amount of lemon juice and mustard for a tangier dressing based on your flavor preference.