Name: Classic Chicken Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 2 cups chicken (cooked and cut into small pieces); 1/2 cup real mayonnaise; 1 slice tomato; romaine lettuce; 2 tbsp diced celery; 1 green onion (thinly sliced); 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 6 slices bread (any type, we suggest high quality Italian Bread); 1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt (may need extra to taste); 1/2 teaspoon dried dill weed; Ground black pepper (to taste)

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Whenever I’m craving something light yet satisfying, I turn to my go-to dish: Classic Chicken Salad. This dish brings back fond memories of summer picnics and family gatherings, where laughter fills the air and everyone gathers around the table. I love how this vibrant salad combines the freshness of vegetables with the richness of chicken and mayonnaise. It’s the perfect blend of flavors and textures. The crunch of celery and the sweetness of tomato elevate the dish, making it not just a meal but a memory. Whether served as a sandwich or on a bed of greens, Classic Chicken Salad satisfies every craving.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
10 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
0 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
20 g

Diet:
Paleo, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
mixing bowl

Why This Classic Chicken Salad Hits Different

Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the reasons I absolutely adore this Classic Chicken Salad is its versatility. It can easily transition from a casual lunch to a more refined dinner. You can serve it on a bed of mixed greens or between slices of crusty bread, making it a delightful option for any meal. I often whip this up when I have friends over for lunch or need a quick dinner. It’s just that good!

Quick and Easy Preparation

With a straightforward preparation process, this salad doesn’t require culinary expertise. Just toss the ingredients together, and you’ve got a meal ready in no time. It’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights or when unexpected guests drop by. Simply gather your ingredients, mix them in a bowl, and it’s done!

Rich in Flavor and Nutrition

This salad boasts not only incredible taste but also wholesome ingredients. The use of real mayonnaise adds creaminess while keeping it light. Plus, the addition of fresh celery and green onions gives it a refreshing crunch. I always feel good knowing I’m enjoying something nutritious!

Customizable to Your Taste

What I love most is how customizable the Classic Chicken Salad is. You can add your favorite extras, whether some spicy mustard for a kick or dried fruit for sweetness. If you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some apples or even a hint of cayenne pepper. There’s no limit to how you can make this dish your own!

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you’re like me and love to have meals ready to go, this salad is a perfect choice for meal prep. I often make a larger batch on the weekend so I can enjoy it throughout the week. It stays fresh in the fridge and makes for a quick grab-and-go option on busy days! Just pair it with some fresh vegetables or your favorite chips.

Great for Any Season

No matter the season, Classic Chicken Salad is a crowd favorite. Whether for summer barbecues or winter gatherings, it fits perfectly on any table. It’s an all-year-round recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients for Classic Chicken Salad

When it comes to preparing a delicious Classic Chicken Salad, the ingredients play a crucial role in creating a flavor-packed dish. Each component brings something unique to the table. The blend of textures and flavors makes it more than just a salad—it’s a complete meal!

2 cups chicken, cooked and cut into small pieces
1/2 cup real mayonnaise
1 slice tomato
romaine lettuce
2 tbsp diced celery
1 green onion, thinly sliced
1 tsp Dijon mustard
6 slices bread, any type, we suggest high-quality Italian Bread
1/2 tsp seasoned salt, may need extra to taste
1/2 tsp dried dill weed
Ground black pepper to taste

Making Classic Chicken Salad

Creating the perfect Classic Chicken Salad is a step-by-step process that’s not only easy but enjoyable. Let’s dive into the details and make this delightful dish together!

Start by taking a large mixing bowl. Combine 2 cups of cooked chicken that’s been chopped into small, bite-sized pieces. The chicken should be tender and well-cooked for the best flavor.
Next, add in 1/2 cup of real mayonnaise. This is where the magic happens, giving the salad its creamy texture and rich flavor. Mix well to incorporate everything thoroughly.
Now, toss in 2 tablespoons of diced celery. This adds a delightful crunch and freshness. Make sure the celery is finely chopped for even distribution throughout the salad.
Add a finely sliced green onion to the bowl. The onion should be tender and fragrant; it should complement the other flavors without overpowering them.
For an additional kick, add 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard. This is optional, but it gives a subtle depth of flavor that really enhances the salad.
Next, sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of seasoned salt and 1/2 teaspoon of dried dill weed. These seasonings elevate the overall taste. Feel free to adjust based on your palate!
Now it’s time to season the mixture with ground black pepper. I like to add it to taste, ensuring the flavors are just right. Mix until the chicken salad is well blended and all ingredients are fully incorporated.
Once everything is mixed, it’s time to prepare the bread. Toast 6 slices of your preferred bread. I recommend using high-quality Italian Bread for a delicious touch.
On one slice of toasted bread, layer a generous handful of romaine lettuce followed by a slice of tomato. This adds freshness and color to your sandwich.
Spoon approximately 6 tablespoons of the chicken salad mixture on top of the tomatoes. I use a 2 tablespoon scoop to ensure each serving is perfect. It should be a hearty and satisfying layer.
Finish your sandwich with another slice of toasted bread, creating a delightful sandwich. Repeat this process until all sandwiches are made. And I always cut each sandwich in half for lunch or into diagonal quarters for an appetizer!
Serve immediately and enjoy your creation! Any leftovers of the chicken salad can be stored in a covered container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. This keeps the salad fresh while making it easy to grab for a quick meal.

Things Worth Knowing

Ingredient freshness is key: Always use fresh ingredients for the best flavor in your chicken salad.
Mixing technique matters: Ensure that you mix gently to keep the chicken pieces intact and avoid a mushy texture.
Customize your flavors: Feel free to tweak the seasoning or add more vegetables, such as bell peppers or cucumbers.
Chill for better flavor: Refrigerating the chicken salad for at least an hour before serving helps the flavors meld beautifully.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Classic Chicken Salad turns out perfectly every time, check out these helpful tips.

Storage: Any leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze chicken salad, as the texture of the ingredients can change.
Pairing: This salad pairs wonderfully with fresh fruits or a light soup for a complete meal.
Ingredient Prep: If using leftover chicken, ensure it’s diced small for easy mixing and eating.
Consistency: If the salad seems too thick, mix in a little more mayonnaise or a splash of lemon juice to lighten it up.
Presentation: For a beautiful presentation, serve the salad in lettuce cups instead of bread.

Best Served With

When it comes to serving your Classic Chicken Salad, you have a plethora of delicious options to consider:

Light Lunch: Serve it as a sandwich for a satisfying lunch option that’s easy to prepare.
Picnic Favorite: This salad is perfect for picnics, served alongside fresh fruit salads or crunchy chips.
Brunch Dish: Pair it with a refreshing mimosa or fruit juice for a delightful brunch experience.
Appetizer Option: Serve in small cups or on crackers for an elegant appetizer at gatherings.
Storage Tips: Always store leftovers in a sealed container to maintain freshness.
Seasonal Pairings: Enjoy with seasonal fruits like berries in summer or apples in fall for added flavor.

FAQ

If you want to make your Classic Chicken Salad healthier, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. It provides a creamy texture while reducing calories. You can also add more vegetables, like carrots or cucumbers, to boost the nutrition. For added flavor without extra calories, fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro can be included.

Absolutely! In fact, preparing Classic Chicken Salad in advance can enhance the flavors as they meld together. Just keep it stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it should stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep, allowing you to have a tasty and nutritious meal ready when you are!

Classic Chicken Salad pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Fresh fruits or a simple green salad make for a light and refreshing combination. If you’re aiming for something heartier, consider serving it alongside potato chips or a bowl of soup. It also makes a fantastic filling for wraps or lettuce cups, providing versatility to your meal!

Yes, using leftover chicken for your Classic Chicken Salad is a great way to minimize waste and save time. Just make sure the leftover chicken is well-cooked and shredded into appropriate sizes. This not only makes the preparation faster but also allows you to enjoy a delicious meal without additional cooking!

Conclusion

The Classic Chicken Salad embodies everything that makes a dish truly special—flavor, simplicity, and versatility. I encourage you to try this recipe, as it’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or a picnic with friends. You’ll find that it satisfies not just your hunger, but also your cravings for something fresh and delightful. Enjoy making it and sharing it with your loved ones!