This perfect classic chicken salad recipe is a simple yet satisfying blend of tender chicken, crisp celery, and creamy mayonnaise, seasoned just right. It's ideal for sandwiches, crackers, or a light lunch on its own.
- Keyword Focus: Classic Chicken Salad, Easy Chicken Salad, Simple Chicken Salad, Creamy Chicken Salad, Lunch Recipe.
Yields: 4 servings Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 20-25 minutes (if cooking chicken)
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked and shredded or diced chicken (rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut)
- ½ cup mayonnaise (use your favorite kind)
- ¼ cup finely diced celery
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion or green onion (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for brightness)
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a little tang)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional additions: ¼ cup chopped toasted nuts (almonds, pecans, or walnuts), ¼ cup halved red grapes, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or dill.
Equipment:
- Medium mixing bowl
- Fork or spoon
- Cutting board
- Knife
Instructions:
- Cook Chicken (if needed): If you don't have pre-cooked chicken, you can bake, boil, or poach chicken breasts or thighs until cooked through. Let cool slightly and then shred or dice into bite-sized pieces.
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the shredded or diced chicken, finely diced celery, and chopped onion (if using).
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl or directly in the mixing bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard (if using), salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Mix Gently: Pour the dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated.
- Add Optional Ingredients: If desired, stir in any of the optional additions like nuts, grapes, or fresh herbs.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the chicken salad and refrigerate for at least 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve on bread, croissants, lettuce leaves, crackers, or with your favorite sides.
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