This Classic Chicken Salad is that delightful little treasure you’ll keep coming back to, perfect for when you crave something light yet satisfying. Creamy and tangy, it strikes the perfect balance between zesty lemon juice and smooth mayonnaise, with just a hint of Dijon mustard’s sharp edge. Each bite delivers tender chicken that’s been lovingly diced, mingling with crunchy celery and red onion. The pop of sweetness from dried cranberries and the subtle nuttiness of sliced almonds create a symphony of textures that dance on your taste buds. Fresh parsley brings vibrant color and a herby nuance that ties everything together, making every mouthful feel like a mini celebration in your mouth. Whether you’re packing lunch for work, hosting an impromptu picnic, or simply craving a quick snack, this chicken salad stands out with its fresh ingredients and crave-worthy flavor.
What makes this Classic Chicken Salad truly shine is its versatility and ease. You can whip it up in just 15 minutes of prep time—no cooking required, aside from having cooked chicken on hand—then let it rest for 30 minutes in the fridge while the flavors marry. It’s a beginner-friendly recipe that feels utterly gourmet, with only a handful of staple pantry items and fresh produce. With just 350 calories per serving, it’s a crowd-pleasing, healthy lunch or dinner option that fits seamlessly into meal-prep routines. Picture serving this at a summer gathering, spooned into crisp lettuce cups or piled high in a hearty sandwich. Even as the seasons change, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe for its fresh ingredients, easy assembly, and fabulously simple charm.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN CLASSIC CHICKEN SALAD
Before you dive into the step-by-step instructions, let’s meet the cast of characters that bring this Classic Chicken Salad to life. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating that perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, and sweet flavors.
- Chicken breast: Offers a tender, protein-packed base that soaks up the dressing beautifully and provides substance to every bite.
- Mayonnaise: Acts as the rich, creamy binder that holds the salad together and delivers a smooth mouthfeel.
- Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle sharpness and depth, cutting through the richness of the mayonnaise with its tangy note.
- Lemon juice: Brightens the entire dish with its citrusy zing, balancing flavors and giving it a fresh finish.
- Salt: Enhances all the other flavors, ensuring each component in the salad shines through.
- Black pepper: Provides a gentle warmth and peppery kick that complements both the creamy and crunchy elements.
- Celery: Contributes a crisp, refreshing crunch and a mild, earthy flavor that contrasts the creaminess of the dressing.
- Red onion: Brings a zesty bite and vibrant color, infusing the salad with aromatic sharpness.
- Sliced almonds: Introduce a nutty crunch and toasty flavor, adding a delightful textural surprise.
- Dried cranberries: Offer bursts of natural sweetness that play against the savory components for a well-rounded taste.
- Fresh parsley: Lends bright herbal notes and a splash of green color, lifting the entire dish with its aromatic freshness.
HOW TO MAKE CLASSIC CHICKEN SALAD
Ready to bring all those wonderful ingredients together? These simple steps will guide you through creating a creamy, flavorful chicken salad that tastes like it was made with love.
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Use a whisk or sturdy spoon to stir everything until the dressing is silky smooth and perfectly seasoned.
2. Add the diced chicken breast to the bowl. With gentle, folding motions, fold the chicken into the creamy mixture, ensuring each piece is evenly coated without breaking it down too much.
3. Add the chopped celery, red onion, sliced almonds, dried cranberries, and fresh parsley. Mix everything together gently but thoroughly, so every forkful will have a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This restful pause allows the flavors to meld and intensify, transforming it into something spectacular.
5. Serve the salad chilled on a bed of lettuce, tucked into a sandwich, or alongside some hearty crackers. Enjoy immediately for the freshest taste and texture.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CLASSIC CHICKEN SALAD
When it’s time to serve this Classic Chicken Salad, the possibilities are endless. Whether you’re setting out a casual lunch or elevating a dinner spread, these serving ideas will make every presentation shine. From refreshing summer gatherings to cozy family meals, consider these suggestions to showcase the salad’s vibrant colors, layers of texture, and fresh, zesty flavors. Experiment with different vessels and accompaniments to find your favorite way to enjoy this crowd-pleaser.
- Lettuce Cups: Spoon the chicken salad into crisp butter or romaine lettuce leaves for a low-carb, refreshing handheld. The crunch of the lettuce contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling—just arrange the leaves on a platter and dollop generously.
- Hearty Sandwich: Layer the salad between slices of whole-grain or sourdough bread, adding a few fresh spinach leaves and tomato slices for extra freshness. Toast the bread lightly first for a warm, slightly crunchy bite.
- Cracker Platter: Serve scoops of salad alongside an assortment of cracker varieties—multi-grain, sesame, or water crackers add their own distinct textures. Arrange on a large board with cheese cubes and fresh fruit for a light, elegant spread.
- Grain Bowl: Build a nourishing bowl by placing a bed of cooked quinoa, brown rice, or farro, then top with a generous portion of the chicken salad. Sprinkle with extra parsley and a squeeze of lemon for a satisfying meal.
HOW TO STORE CLASSIC CHICKEN SALAD
Proper storage ensures your chicken salad maintains its flavor, texture, and fresh appeal for as long as possible. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, saving leftovers, or prepping for an outdoor picnic, these storage tips will help keep every bite as delightful as the first.
- Airtight Container: Transfer the salad to an airtight container to prevent exposure to air, which can dry out the ingredients. Ensure the lid is sealed completely before placing it in the refrigerator.
- Plastic Wrap Layer: Press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the salad before sealing the container. This minimizes air contact at the top, preserving moisture and preventing discoloration.
- Refrigerate Promptly: Store the salad in the coldest part of your fridge (not the door) to maintain a steady temperature below 40°F (4°C). Consume within three days for optimal freshness and safety.
- Separate Dressing (Optional): If you plan to keep the salad longer or want extra-crisp crunch, mix the dressing separately and add it just before serving. Store the undressed chicken and mix-ins in one container and the dressing in another.
CONCLUSION
This Classic Chicken Salad has everything you need for a fresh, flavorful, and fabulously simple dish that can brighten up any meal. We’ve walked through each detail, from the essential ingredients to the step-by-step assembly, and shared creative ways to serve and store your creation. With only a handful of kitchen staples and 15 minutes of active prep time, you’ll have a delicious lunch or dinner that’s both satisfying and healthy, clocking in at just 350 calories per serving. Whether you’re looking to impress friends at a summer brunch, streamline your weekly meal prep, or simply whip up a quick yet gourmet-style bite, this salad has you covered.
Feel free to print this article and save it for later reference—you’ll find it’s a kitchen staple you’ll turn to again and again. Below, you’ll find a helpful FAQ section to answer any lingering questions about ingredients or techniques. If you try the recipe, I’d love to hear how it turns out! Let me know in the comments if you have any tweaks, questions, or feedback. Your experiences help build our community of home cooks who love easy recipes with fresh ingredients. Happy cooking!
Classic Chicken Salad
Description
This Classic Chicken Salad combines tender chicken, crunchy almonds, and sweet cranberries, all wrapped in a creamy, zesty dressing. It's the perfect balance of flavors and textures!
Ingredients
Instructions
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well mixed.
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Add the diced chicken breast to the bowl and gently fold it into the mayonnaise mixture until all pieces are coated evenly.
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Add the chopped celery, red onion, sliced almonds, dried cranberries, and fresh parsley to the bowl. Mix everything together gently but thoroughly.
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Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
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Serve the salad chilled on a bed of lettuce, in a sandwich, or alongside some crackers.
Note
- For a healthier version, substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Roasting the almonds first adds an extra layer of flavor and texture.
- Feel free to customize with your favorite nuts or dried fruits.
- Grilled or rotisserie chicken can add a smoky dimension to the salad.
- Perfect for meal prepping - can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
