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creamy chicken salad
Isla Marie

Classic Chicken Salad

This classic chicken salad is creamy, crunchy, fresh, and incredibly versatile. Made with tender chicken, crisp veggies, a tangy mayo dressing, and optional add-ins like grapes or nuts, it's perfect for sandwiches, wraps, croissants, meal prep lunches, or a light protein-packed snack. Ready in minutes and customizable to suit any flavor preference.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Main Ingredients
  • 3 cups cooked chicken diced or shredded
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 celery stalks finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion or green onions minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional Add-Ins
  • 1/2 cup red grapes halved
  • 1/2 apple diced
  • 1/4 cup pecans or almonds chopped
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill or parsley
  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt optional for lighter version

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Cutting board & knife
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Spatula or spoon

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Chicken:
  2. Use cooled, cooked chicken—rotisserie, poached, or leftover grilled chicken. Dice or shred into evenly sized pieces for uniform texture.
  3. Chop the Vegetables:
  4. Finely chop celery and onions. Add optional grapes, apples, or nuts if using. Uniform chopping ensures balanced texture in every bite.
  5. Make the Dressing:
  6. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Add Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing if desired.
  7. Combine Ingredients:
  8. Add the chicken, celery, onions, and optional mix-ins to the dressing. Fold gently to coat everything evenly without breaking the chicken pieces.
  9. Chill and Serve:
  10. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to develop. Serve on sandwiches, croissants, in lettuce wraps, or with crackers.

Notes

  • Use cold chicken for the best texture and creamy dressing.
  • Adjust creaminess by adding more mayo or a splash of lemon juice.
  • Add nuts right before serving to keep their crunch.
  • Store in the refrigerator for 3–4 days; do not freeze.
  • Customize with curry powder, jalapeños, avocado, or fresh herbs.
  • Perfect for sandwiches, pitas, croissants, wraps, or cracker plates.