Classic Chicken Salad

Chicken salad is a classic summer dish that’s incredibly versatile and easy to make. Whether you’re packing it for a picnic, serving it on crackers for a light lunch, or using it as a filling for sandwiches, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Here’s what you’ll need:

1 pound cooked chicken, shredded or chopped (rotisserie chicken works great!)

1/2 cup mayonnaise

1/4 cup chopped celery

1/4 cup chopped onion

2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon lemon juice

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional additions:

1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

1/4 cup chopped grapes (green or red)

1/4 cup chopped dried cranberries

1/4 cup chopped apples

Instructions:

1. Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the shredded or chopped chicken, mayonnaise, celery, onion, dill, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice.
2. Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Stir: Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
4. Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Add-ins: If using any of the optional additions, gently stir them into the chilled chicken salad.

Tips and Variations:

Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some extra kick.

Go Greek: Substitute Greek yogurt for some of the mayonnaise to lighten things up.

Get creative with herbs: Experiment with different herbs like tarragon, chives, or parsley.

Make it crunchy: Add a handful of chopped almonds or walnuts for extra texture.

Sweet and savory: Toss in some dried cranberries or chopped apples for a touch of sweetness.

Healthy twist: Use low-fat mayonnaise and add a handful of chopped spinach or kale.

Serving Suggestions:

Sandwiches: Serve on bread, rolls, or wraps.

Crackers: Spoon onto crackers for a quick and easy appetizer.

Leafy greens: Serve on a bed of lettuce or spinach leaves.

Wraps: Fill tortillas with chicken salad and your favorite toppings.

Salads: Add to mixed greens for a hearty salad.

Why This Recipe Works:

This chicken salad recipe is a winner because it’s:

Simple and easy to make: With just a few basic ingredients, you can whip up a batch in minutes.

Versatile: It can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, from sandwiches to salads.

Customizable: You can easily customize it to your own taste by adding different ingredients.

Perfect for any occasion: Whether you’re having a picnic, potluck, or simply enjoying a leisurely lunch at home, this chicken salad is sure to be a hit.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken? Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for this recipe.

How long will chicken salad last in the refrigerator? Chicken salad will typically last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze chicken salad? While it’s not recommended to freeze chicken salad with mayonnaise, you can freeze the cooked chicken and then make the salad fresh when you’re ready to eat it.

Conclusion

Chicken salad is a timeless classic that’s easy to make and endlessly adaptable. With a few simple ingredients and a little creativity, you can create a delicious and satisfying dish that everyone will enjoy. So next time you’re looking for a quick and easy meal or a tasty addition to your picnic basket, give this chicken salad recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed!

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Note: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice.

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