To make a classic chicken salad, follow these steps:
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked, chopped or shredded chicken (rotisserie or leftover chicken works well)
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 rib celery, diced
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ¼ teaspoon seasoned salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 teaspoon chopped fresh dill or ¼ teaspoon dried dill
- Optional add-ins: chopped apples, grapes, or nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken : Chop or shred cooked chicken and place it in a large bowl.
- Add vegetables : Add diced celery and sliced green onion to the bowl.
- Make the dressing : In a separate bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, seasoned salt, black pepper, and dill if using.
- Mix together : Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir well to combine.
- Taste and adjust : Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve : Enjoy the chicken salad on bread, rolls, in wraps, or over a bed of lettuce.
Variations
- Replace half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Add fruits like grapes or apples for sweetness.
- Include nuts such as pecans or almonds for crunch.
This recipe can be prepared in about 15 minutes and makes a delicious lunch or dinner option
Optional: How to Poach Chicken for Salad
- Place chicken breasts in a pot and cover with salted water or broth.
- Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 8-12 minutes until internal temperature reaches 160-165°F.
- Let cool, then dice or shred for the salad
This method ensures tender, moist chicken perfect for chicken salad.
