Best Chicken Salad Recipe

Best Chicken Salad Recipe

Cook Time: 5 minutes

Everyone needs this best chicken salad recipe in their collection! This creamy homemade chicken salad is quick and easy to make with just a handful of everyday ingredients. Its a genius way to use up leftovers and perfect for warm weather picnics, potlucks, lunches, or light dinners.

How to Make Chicken Salad

This homemade chicken salad recipe uses six simple ingredients and takes only 10 minutes to make from start to finish. After that, you can serve it up on salad greens, scoop it into pita bread or half an avocado, roll it up in a tortilla for a wrap, or serve it hot in a quesadilla or chicken melt.

Chicken Salad Ingredients

  • Chicken: You'll need cooked chicken, chopped or shredded. Leftover roast chicken, grilled chicken, or rotisserie chicken works great. You can also use canned chicken (drain it first) or cook fresh chicken. White or dark meat, or a combination of both, can be used depending on your preference.
  • Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise binds the ingredients together into a creamy texture. You can use regular or reduced-fat mayonnaise. A tablespoon of lemon juice is added to brighten the flavor, and a teaspoon of ground black pepper is used to enhance the taste. Taste the dressing before mixing with the chicken to ensure its to your liking. You may want to add salt or other spices to adjust the flavor.
  • Celery: Fresh and crisp celery adds flavor and crunch. Chop it into small, uniform pieces to make it easier to eat.
  • Almonds: Blanched slivered almonds are toasted in a frying pan, adding a rich nutty flavor that makes this chicken salad stand apart. Toast them over medium-high heat, shaking frequently to avoid burning.

Optional Add-ins

Theres a lot you can do with this chicken salad recipe. Try adding minced fresh herbs like parsley, chives, basil, or tarragon for extra flavor. Grapes are another great addition for juicy bursts of sweetness. You can also add cooked pasta to stretch the salad into a larger meal (just increase the mayonnaise mixture to cover the pasta). For a twist, add chopped apples and walnuts to make a Chicken Waldorf Salad. Feel free to experiment with add-ins to make this recipe your own!

How to Store Chicken Salad

Store chicken salad in an airtight in the refrigerator. If stored properly, it should last for 3 to 5 days. If you served it over salad greens, store the greens separately to prevent them from getting soggy.

Can You Freeze Chicken Salad?

We dont recommend freezing chicken salad, as the mayonnaise will separate when thawed, affecting the texture and flavor.

Ingredients:

  • cup blanched slivered almonds
  • cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2 cups chopped, cooked chicken meat
  • 1 rib celery, chopped

Directions:

  1. Gather all ingredients.
  2. Place almonds in a frying pan and toast over medium-high heat. Shake the pan frequently and watch carefully, as they can burn quickly.
  3. In a medium bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, and ground black pepper.
  4. Once the almonds are toasted, toss them with the chicken and chopped celery in the bowl with the mayo mixture.
  5. Mix everything together thoroughly, ensuring the ingredients are evenly coated.
  6. Enjoy your delicious chicken salad! You can serve it on its own or with your favorite side dish.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

  • Calories: 779
  • Fat: 63g (81% Daily Value)
  • Saturated Fat: 9g (45% Daily Value)
  • Cholesterol: 126mg (42% Daily Value)
  • Sodium: 403mg (18% Daily Value)
  • Total Carbohydrates: 8g (3% Daily Value)
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g (10% Daily Value)
  • Total Sugars: 2g
  • Protein: 44g (89% Daily Value)
  • Vitamin C: 4mg (5% Daily Value)
  • Calcium: 100mg (8% Daily Value)
  • Iron: 3mg (16% Daily Value)
  • Potassium: 572mg (12% Daily Value)

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients, and this amount is based on available data. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or a registered dietitian before preparing this recipe.

Best Chicken Salad Recipe

Best Chicken Salad

This classic chicken salad recipe is easy to make and perfect for using leftover shredded chicken; mayo, almonds, and celery add flavor and crunch. In this article, we will explore the origins of this dish, its regional variations, how it differs from similar recipes, where it's typically served, and a few interesting facts about the beloved chicken salad.

History of Chicken Salad

The history of chicken salad can be traced back to the 19th century in the United States. The dish became popular as a way to use leftover chicken, a practice that helped make the most out of food during times of economic restraint. Its first recorded recipe appeared in a 1863 cookbook, where it was described as a "chicken mayonnaise salad." Over time, the recipe evolved, incorporating various ingredients such as grapes, nuts, and herbs, becoming a versatile dish suitable for any occasion.

Regional Variations

Chicken salad is enjoyed in various forms across the United States, with regional twists reflecting local tastes. In the Southern states, for instance, it's often served with pecans, and a dash of curry powder may be added for extra flavor. On the East Coast, particularly in New England, you'll find chicken salad made with diced apples and walnuts, closely resembling the classic Waldorf salad. In contrast, the West Coast might feature avocado or fresh cilantro, adding a refreshing and slightly tangy taste to the dish.

How This Recipe Differs from Similar Dishes

While chicken salad is a common dish in many cuisines, this recipe stands out due to its use of toasted almonds, which add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. Unlike many traditional chicken salads that rely heavily on mayonnaise, this version balances the creaminess with a touch of lemon juice and pepper, offering a bright contrast to the rich ingredients. Other versions of chicken salad may include additional fruits like grapes or apples, or even hard-boiled eggs, but the simplicity of this version highlights the tender chicken and crisp vegetables without overwhelming the palate.

Where is Chicken Salad Typically Served?

Chicken salad is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. It's often a favorite at picnics, potlucks, and brunches due to its ease of preparation and ability to be served cold. You can enjoy it on a bed of greens, scoop it into pita bread, or serve it on a croissant or sandwich bread for a quick and satisfying lunch. Many people also enjoy it as a dip with crackers or chips, making it a popular choice for casual gatherings.

Interesting Facts

  • Chicken salad was originally a luxury dish, created by delicatessens in the late 1800s to appeal to wealthier clientele.
  • One of the most famous variations of chicken salad is the Waldorf chicken salad, which was created at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City in the 1890s.
  • In 1930, the chicken salad sandwich became a common offering at American delis and cafes.
  • While mayonnaise is the traditional binding agent in chicken salad, some modern versions replace it with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter twist.

Conclusion

This chicken salad recipe is a timeless classic that can be easily adapted to suit different tastes and preferences. Whether you're making it for a family picnic, a light lunch, or a potluck gathering, its sure to impress. The combination of tender chicken, crunchy celery, and toasted almonds creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a favorite for many.

AI Audio version of the recipe is available!

You can listen to this recipe in AI audio format. Simply click the play button below to listen to the content in a format that suits you best. It’s a great way to absorb information on the go!

FAQ about Best Chicken Salad Recipe

Chicken salad should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it can last for 3 to 5 days. If you served the chicken salad over salad greens, store the greens separately to prevent them from wilting.

It is not recommended to freeze chicken salad, as the mayonnaise will separate upon thawing, affecting the texture and flavor of the salad.

Yes, you can use canned chicken. Just be sure to drain it well before adding it to the salad.

There are many variations you can try! You can add fresh grapes for sweetness, diced apples, nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even herbs such as tarragon or parsley. Some people also like to include diced onions or a bit of mustard for extra flavor.

Leftover roast chicken, grilled chicken, or rotisserie chicken works great for this recipe. Simply chop or shred the chicken and follow the recipe as instructed.

Yes, feel free to substitute the slivered almonds with other nuts like chopped pecans, walnuts, or cashews for a different flavor and texture.

To avoid sogginess, store any extra salad separately from the salad greens, and avoid mixing the chicken salad with the greens until you're ready to serve it. If you're making the salad ahead of time, you can also add the nuts last to maintain their crunch.

Yes, you can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt, sour cream, or a mixture of both. This will change the flavor profile, but it can still work well as a creamy base for the salad.

For the best flavor and texture, use cooked, shredded or chopped chicken. You can use either white or dark meat, or a combination of both. Leftover roast or grilled chicken is ideal, but poached chicken breasts also work well.

Yes, adding cooked pasta is a great way to stretch the chicken salad into a more filling meal. If you add pasta, you'll need to increase the amount of mayonnaise or dressing to cover everything.

Comments

Mark Sanchez

01/12/2025 03:21:24 PM

I absolutely adore this recipe, and it's a hit with my entire family as well. It's an excellent base recipe that allows for customization. I personally enjoy adding slivered almonds to mine, and I like to serve it alongside some cut-up apples and grapes for a refreshing touch. I opt not to include celery, but I do incorporate finely chopped green onions and a mixture of sour cream and mayo, using half of each. The result is fantastic! Thank you for sharing this recipe - I will definitely be making it on repeat!

Gary Adams

05/07/2023 08:51:23 PM

Great base recipe! I enhanced it by incorporating fresh pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, a hint of dijon mustard, and swapped out almonds for crushed pecans for a more decadent chicken salad.

Robert Roberts

12/23/2024 10:55:28 PM

Excellent simple recipe! I diced boneless, skinless chicken breasts, seasoned them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder, and baked them at 400°F for 30 minutes. I incorporated spicy mustard, grapes, and red onion for extra flavor. Thanks to Jackie for this tasty dish!

Charles Ramirez

01/07/2025 05:02:24 PM

I have been making this recipe for almost 30 years now with just a few tweaks. Instead of lemon juice, I use 2 tablespoons of cider vinegar and a mix of 1/4 cup mayonnaise and 1/4 cup sour cream. Occasionally, I like to add julienned carrots and chopped green apple for extra flavor.

Barbara Thompson

11/23/2023 07:48:14 PM

I find it puzzling why some individuals choose to chop their celery into large pieces. Over time, I have noticed that whether celery and other vegetables are in soups or salads, their flavors and textures blend much more effectively when they are finely chopped or sliced. This is just my personal preference, but I hope it provides some insight for others.

Richard Martinez

12/10/2022 02:19:09 PM

This is definitely our favorite go-to chicken salad recipe. We use Kirkland's (Costco brand) canned white meat chicken to make it quick and easy for lunches or to have a ready snack in the fridge instead of frozen burritos. It's perfect for sandwiches, salads, or as a dip with chips or crackers. Always hits the spot!

Victoria Ramirez

01/07/2023 01:51:01 PM

I made this dish a few weeks back. I added extra lemon juice and two celery sticks. It turned out fantastic. After Thanksgiving, I whipped up another batch using leftover turkey breast, and it was just as amazing.

Steven Collins

09/01/2024 06:17:51 PM

This chicken salad recipe is fantastic as is, but also offers plenty of room for creative additions. Instead of almonds, I typically use chopped toasted pecans and dried cranberries for a twist. For a curry-inspired version, I substitute almonds with chopped mango chutney and golden raisins. Another delicious variation includes fresh tarragon, chopped grapes, and toasted hazelnuts. While leftover grilled or roasted chicken works well, I prefer to poach bone-in chicken breasts or boneless chicken breasts in a flavorful broth with celery, onion, and carrot for extra tenderness and flavor. The resulting enriched broth can also be used as a wonderful base for soup.

Edward Martinez

10/25/2022 01:45:06 PM

The video recommends shredding a few of the larger pieces of diced chicken. This simple technique truly makes a difference.

Joyce Lopez

02/11/2024 12:49:39 AM

We create a delightful chicken salad sandwich with canned chicken, crunchy apples, celery, pecans, juicy purple grapes, a hint of celery seed, and creamy Dukes mayo, all served on a buttery croissant. Our customers love it so much, they often ask us to sell it to them.

Betty Hill

09/27/2024 09:23:42 PM

Oh wow! This salad is truly amazing! I included fresh red grapes, chopped pecans, and onion seasoned with a hint of tarragon. I placed it all in a pita bread with lettuce and tomato. It was so delicious that I had to prepare a second pita to share with my husband!

Christopher Cruz

02/25/2025 11:14:38 AM

This recipe serves as a great foundation for incorporating and modifying other ingredients. Additionally, pre-seasoned chicken works perfectly for this dish.

Raymond Thompson

12/05/2024 02:57:51 AM

This chicken salad recipe is truly exceptional! It's simple, straightforward, and absolutely delicious. I often like to enhance it by mixing in some cooked pasta to make it go further. When I do add pasta, I like to include a little extra mayo for creaminess. It has quickly become one of my go-to recipes.

Scott Harris

08/28/2022 12:21:38 AM

I absolutely adore this chef!!!! Simply the greatest.

Jason Rivera

12/10/2023 04:58:41 PM

Great and simple recipe with endless possibilities! I opted for seasoned grilled chicken mixed with a combination of mayo and sour cream. I also included a tablespoon of dill and green onions, and swapped sliced almonds for slivered almonds for a lighter texture. Remember to add salt according to your taste. Excited to experiment with other variations like tarragon, dried cranberries, and diced apple! Fantastic job!

Anna Moore

10/07/2023 11:33:58 PM

I prepared this recipe using 3 cups of white meat chicken, making adjustments to all the ingredients. The end result was a so-so chicken salad, yielding 4 cups in total.

Michael Collins

08/11/2023 04:17:12 AM

I think adding some onion to the mixture would be a good idea.

Timothy Davis

11/05/2022 05:27:15 PM

This chicken salad is my husband's absolute favorite. Whenever I bring home a rotisserie chicken, he insists on saving enough leftovers specifically for this salad. It's a must-have for him!

Brenda Nguyen

03/27/2025 09:08:37 AM

I didn't have almonds on hand, but I used all the other ingredients. The dish turned out absolutely delicious!

Lisa Williams

07/22/2024 10:45:48 AM

Add dried cranberries.