traditional chicken salad recipe

traditional chicken salad recipe

The Best traditional chicken salad recipe

I have been making this traditional chicken salad recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family and friends. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quick lunch or a special gathering. I love how the combination of chicken, celery, and herbs comes together to create a delicious and refreshing taste experience.

My kids always ask for this salad when they’re feeling sick, as it’s easy to digest and helps them feel better. I’ve also noticed that my husband loves this recipe because it’s so easy to make and requires minimal cooking time. The best part is that it’s extremely versatile – you can serve it on its own, use it as a sandwich filling, or add it to a bed of greens for a quick salad.

This recipe has been passed down through generations in my family, and I’m happy to share it with you today. One of the reasons I adore this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to customize to your taste preferences. Want to add some heat?

Throw in some diced jalapenos or red pepper flakes. Want to make it more substantial? Add some cooked pasta or rice.

The possibilities are endless! This recipe is also a great way to use up leftover chicken or turkey, making it an excellent option for meal prep or reducing food waste.

Traditional Chicken Salad

Traditional Chicken Salad

4.6 from 1684 votes

A classic chicken salad recipe featuring tender chicken breast, creamy mayonnaise, and a mix of crunchy vegetables. This dish is perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or as a light lunch on its own.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil

For the Salad

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp lemon juice
1/2 cup diced celery
1/2 cup diced red onion
1/2 cup grapes halved
1/2 cup chopped almonds
salt and pepper to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, and olive oil.
3Place the chicken on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the chicken is no longer pink in the center.
4Remove the chicken from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes.
5Once cooled, dice the chicken into small cubes.
6Place the diced chicken in a large mixing bowl.
7In a separate bowl, mix the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice until well combined.
8Add the mayonnaise mixture to the diced chicken and stir until the chicken is evenly coated.
9Add the diced celery, diced red onion, halved grapes, and chopped almonds to the chicken mixture.
10Stir until all ingredients are well combined.
11Season with salt and pepper to taste.
12Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
13Serve chilled on bread, in a wrap, or on a bed of lettuce.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Oven
Cutting board
Knife

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 24g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 73mg🧂Sodium: 550mg🌾Total Carbs: 9g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 26g

📝Notes

Tips: For a creamier salad, add a bit more mayonnaise. You can also mix in other ingredients like chopped apples or pickles for added flavor and crunch.

I love serving this traditional chicken salad recipe at family gatherings or potlucks because it’s always a crowd-pleaser. It’s also an excellent option for meal prep or quick lunches because it’s so easy to make ahead of time.

When storing leftovers, make sure to keep them refrigerated at 40°F (4°C) or below and consume within 3-5 days. If you’re planning on reheating leftovers, do so gently over low heat until warmed through.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Salad

What is the ideal ratio of chicken to mayonnaise in this recipe?

The ideal ratio of chicken to mayonnaise is about 2 parts chicken to 1 part mayonnaise. You can adjust this ratio to your liking, but keep in mind that too much mayonnaise can make the salad too rich and overpowering.

Can I use cooked store-bought chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use cooked store-bought chicken for this recipe. However, keep in mind that store-bought chicken may be higher in sodium and preservatives compared to freshly cooked chicken.

How do I prevent the chicken salad from becoming too soggy?

To prevent the chicken salad from becoming too soggy, make sure to drain any excess moisture from the celery and onions before adding them to the mix. You can also add a pinch of salt or a squeeze of lemon juice to help absorb any excess moisture.

Can I substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise?

Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise in this recipe. Greek yogurt adds a similar creaminess without the added calories of mayonnaise.

How long does this recipe keep in the fridge?

This recipe typically keeps in the fridge for 3-5 days, depending on how well it’s stored and whether you’ve added any perishable ingredients like fresh herbs.

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