Simple Chicken Salad Recipe

Chicken salad is a classic dish that combines the protein-packed goodness of chicken with the crispness of vegetables and the creaminess of dressing. It’s a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed as a sandwich filling, a light lunch, or even as a refreshing side dish.

Today I am going to share a simple chicken salad recipe that is quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for satisfying your hunger on a warm summer day. Let’s dive in!

Why you will love this chicken salad recipe

Simplicity: This recipe is easy to follow and requires basic cooking skills, making it accessible to both novice and experienced cooks. The straightforward instructions ensure that anyone can create a delicious chicken salad without feeling overwhelmed.

Refreshing flavors: The combination of tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, juicy grapes, and toasted almonds creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The tanginess from the dressing, along with the hint of Dijon mustard and lemon juice, adds a refreshing twist that elevates the overall taste.

Versatility: This chicken salad can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether served on a bed of fresh lettuce leaves, between two slices of bread, or inside a buttery croissant, it adapts to different preferences and occasions. It’s a great option for picnics, lunches, potlucks, or even as a quick dinner option.

Customization: While the recipe provides a solid foundation, readers can easily customize the salad to suit their preferences. They can add their favorite ingredients such as dried cranberries, chopped apples, or fresh herbs to enhance the flavor profile and make it their own.

Healthiness: Chicken salad is a nutritious option that offers a good balance of protein from the chicken and an array of vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. The use of Greek yogurt or sour cream in the dressing provides a lighter alternative to mayonnaise, making it a healthier option without compromising on taste.

Make-ahead convenience: This chicken salad can be prepared in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together in the refrigerator. This makes it a convenient choice for busy individuals or those who prefer to plan their meals ahead of time. It’s an ideal recipe for meal prep or for taking to work or outings.

Ingredients:

:: 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced (This is a great use for canned chicken)

:: 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped

:: 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped

:: 1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely chopped

:: 1/2 cup seedless grapes, halved

:: 1/4 cup slivered almonds, toasted (optional)

:: 1/4 cup mayonnaise

:: 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt (you can use sour cream or additional mayonnaise if desired)

:: 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

:: 1 tablespoon lemon juice

:: Salt and pepper to taste

:: Fresh lettuce leaves (optional)

:: Bread or croissants for serving (optional)

Instructions:

Cook the chicken: Start by cooking the chicken breast until it’s tender and fully cooked. You can boil, grill, or bake the chicken according to your preference. Once cooked, allow it to cool slightly before shredding or dicing it into bite-sized pieces.

Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well combined. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.

Mix the salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded or diced chicken, celery, red onion, red bell pepper, grapes, and toasted slivered almonds (if using). Gently toss the ingredients to evenly distribute them.

Add the dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Use a spatula or spoon to gently fold and coat the ingredients with the dressing. Ensure that the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated.

Chill and serve: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken salad to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Before serving, give it a quick taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the chicken salad on a bed of fresh lettuce leaves, in a sandwich, or inside a flaky croissant.

Enjoy: Your refreshing and delicious chicken salad is now ready to be enjoyed! Whether you’re having a picnic, a lunch at the office, or a family gathering, this recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

What to serve with this chicken salad recipe

Chicken salad pairs well with a variety of side dishes that complement its flavors and provide a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options to serve alongside chicken salad:

Fresh Fruit: A refreshing fruit salad or a platter of sliced seasonal fruits such as watermelon, grapes, berries, or citrus segments adds a vibrant and juicy element to balance the creamy chicken salad.

Crusty Bread or Croissants: Serve slices of crusty bread or flaky croissants on the side, allowing your guests to enjoy the chicken salad as a sandwich filling. The bread provides a satisfying texture and helps create a complete meal. We love serving it with my homemade bread. You do not need a bread maker to make bread at home.

Whole Grain Crackers or Toast Points: Offer a selection of whole grain crackers or toasted baguette slices to add a crunchy element to the meal. These can be used to scoop up the chicken salad or enjoyed on their own.

Leafy Greens: Serve a side of fresh mixed greens or a simple garden salad with a light vinaigrette dressing. The crispness of the greens adds freshness and balances the richness of the chicken salad.

Vegetable Crudité: A platter of fresh vegetable sticks such as carrot, celery, cucumber, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes can provide a healthy and crunchy accompaniment to the chicken salad. Pair it with a tasty dip like hummus or ranch dressing.

Soup: For a comforting and satisfying meal, pair the chicken salad with a warm bowl of soup. Options like tomato soup, chicken noodle soup, or vegetable soup work well and provide a contrast in temperature and texture.

Quinoa or Rice: Serve a side of cooked quinoa or rice to add some extra substance to the meal. These grains can be enjoyed plain or seasoned with herbs and spices for added flavor.

This simple chicken salad recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will leave you craving for more. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized by adding your favorite ingredients, such as dried cranberries, chopped apples, or fresh herbs.

The creamy dressing perfectly complements the tender chicken and crunchy vegetables, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion. Prepare this chicken salad ahead of time for a quick and convenient meal or whip it up in minutes for a last-minute gathering.

Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of this chicken salad recipe, and let it become a staple in your culinary repertoire!