Chicken Salad Recipe – Fresh, Flavorful & Easy to Make

If you’re searching for a chicken salad recipe that’s fresh, light, and packed with flavor, you’ve just found your new go-to. This recipe blends tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a creamy yet tangy dressing for the ultimate refreshing meal. Perfect for lunches, picnics, and even weeknight dinners, it’s a dish you can prepare ahead of time and enjoy for days.

The best part? You can easily customize this salad to suit your taste — add sweet grapes for a fruity twist, toss in crunchy nuts for texture, or go classic with simple celery and mayo. Whether served in a sandwich, wrapped in lettuce, or scooped over a bed of greens, this recipe always delivers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Salad:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced (300g / 10.5 oz) – Rotisserie chicken works great for convenience.
• ½ cup celery, finely chopped (60g) – Adds crunch and freshness.
• ½ cup red grapes, halved (75g) – Sweet contrast to the savory chicken.
• ¼ cup red onion, finely diced (30g) – Gives a mild sharpness.
• ¼ cup toasted almonds or pecans, chopped (25g) – Optional, for extra texture.

For the Dressing:

• ½ cup mayonnaise (120g) – The creamy base.
• 2 tbsp plain Greek yogurt (30g) – Lightens the dressing and adds tang.
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (5g) – For a subtle kick.
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (15ml) – Brightens the flavor.
• ½ tsp salt (2g) – To taste.
• ¼ tsp black pepper (1g) – For a mild bite.

Garnish:

• Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional)
• Extra nuts or grapes for serving

How to Make This Chicken Salad Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes (if cooking chicken fresh)
Total Time: 20 minutes

1. Cook the Chicken (If Needed)
   If using raw chicken, poach or bake until fully cooked (internal temp: 74°C / 165°F). Cool slightly before shredding or dicing.
2. Prep the Veggies & Add-Ins
   Chop celery, grapes, onion, and nuts. Place them in a large mixing bowl with the chicken.
3. Make the Dressing
   In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Combine
   Pour dressing over the chicken mixture. Stir gently until everything is well coated.
5. Chill & Serve
   For best flavor, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy it in sandwiches, wraps, or over greens.

Tips & Variations for the Best Chicken Salad Recipe

1. Make it Lighter: Use all Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a healthier option.
2. Add More Crunch: Try diced apples, cucumber, or sunflower seeds.
3. Go Herb-Heavy: Fresh dill, parsley, or tarragon can take the flavor up a notch.
4. Meal Prep Tip: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days — perfect for quick grab-and-go lunches.

Why This Chicken Salad Recipe Works

This salad is all about balance — creamy dressing, crunchy veggies, sweet fruit, and savory chicken. It’s versatile, portable, and crowd-pleasing. You can easily double the batch for gatherings or make a small portion for one. Plus, the flavor gets even better the next day as the ingredients meld together.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned chicken?
Yes! While fresh or rotisserie chicken gives the best flavor and texture, canned chicken works in a pinch. Just drain it well.

2. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely. Use a dairy-free mayonnaise and skip the Greek yogurt, or replace it with more mayo or a plant-based yogurt alternative.

3. What’s the best way to serve chicken salad?
It’s delicious in sandwiches, pita pockets, lettuce wraps, or simply over a fresh salad bowl.

Love this recipe? Try our refreshing chocolate-chip-cookie for another healthy, flavor-packed breakfast option.

For expert food safety tips, check out the USDA’s guide on storing cooked poultry to keep your chicken salad fresh and safe.

✨ Now it’s your turn!

Whip up this chicken salad recipe today and enjoy a light, flavorful meal that’s as easy as it is delicious. For more quick, healthy recipes, explore 100+ dishes at greenbeancasserolerecipe.com.