Best Chicken Salad – recipesshubb

Best Chicken Salad – Creamy, Flavorful & Perfect for Any Occasion

If you’re looking for a chicken salad that’s creamy, flavorful, and easy to make, you’ve come to the right place. This recipe combines tender cooked chicken, crisp vegetables, and a luscious dressing that’s lightly tangy, subtly sweet, and perfectly seasoned. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s also fresh enough for a healthy lunch or light dinner.

Whether served in a sandwich, on a bed of greens, or with crackers for snacking, this Best Chicken Salad is always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works perfectly)
½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
2 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp lemon juice
¼ tsp salt (or to taste)
¼ tsp black pepper
½ cup celery, finely chopped
½ cup red grapes, halved (optional for sweetness)
¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
¼ cup toasted almonds or walnuts, chopped (optional)
2 tsp fresh parsley, chopped

Optional additions:

¼ tsp garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor
½ tsp curry powder for a subtle twist
Diced apple for crunch

Equipment Needed

Medium mixing bowl
Spoon or spatula
Knife and cutting board

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

If you’re not using pre-cooked chicken, poach or roast chicken breasts until fully cooked and tender. Allow to cool, then shred or dice into bite-sized pieces.

2. Make the Dressing

In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise (or yogurt), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well blended.

3. Mix in the Ingredients

Add the chicken, celery, grapes, red onion, nuts, and parsley to the bowl. Gently fold until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.

4. Chill and Serve

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Serve on:

Sandwich bread or croissants
Leafy greens for a salad
Crackers as a party appetizer

Tips for the Best Chicken Salad

Use cold chicken – It keeps the salad fresh and prevents the dressing from becoming watery.
Balance textures – Crisp celery, soft grapes, and crunchy nuts make every bite interesting.
Adjust sweetness – Grapes or apples add natural sweetness, but adjust to taste.
Make ahead – Chicken salad stores well in the fridge for 2–3 days, making it perfect for meal prep.

Variations

Classic Southern Style: Add hard-boiled eggs and pickles.
Curried Chicken Salad: Mix in ½ tsp curry powder and raisins.
Mediterranean Style: Add chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese.
Low-Carb: Serve over romaine or spinach instead of bread.

Serving Suggestions

Spread on whole-grain bread or croissants for sandwiches
Serve over a bed of lettuce or mixed greens
Use as a filling for wraps or pita pockets
Serve with crackers as a party appetizer

Why This Recipe Works

This chicken salad is creamy without being heavy, flavorful without being overpowering, and versatile enough for everyday meals or special occasions. The combination of protein, fresh veggies, and optional sweet and crunchy elements makes it delicious and satisfying.

Conclusion

Best Chicken Salad is a simple, customizable recipe that everyone will love. With tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy dressing, it’s a perfect choice for lunches, family dinners, or casual gatherings. Quick to make, easy to store, and endlessly adaptable, this chicken salad is destined to become a favorite in your kitchen.