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Classic Chicken Salad served with bread
Lucy

Classic Chicken Salad: Creamy, Customizable, and Delicious

  Inspired by the popular flavors of Chicken Salad Chick, this homemade chicken salad recipe is creamy, flavorful, and endlessly versatile. Perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or as a topping for salads, this easy recipe uses a few simple ingredients for a classic Southern-inspired dish. Whether you enjoy it on croissants, crackers, or lettuce wraps, this chicken salad is a must-try!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Cuisine: American, Southern
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  •  
  • 2 cups cooked chicken shredded or cubed (rotisserie or roasted chicken works well)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a lighter option
  • 1/4 cup finely diced celery
  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans or sliced almonds optional, for crunch
  • 1/4 cup halved red grapes or dried cranberries optional, for sweetness
  • 1/2 tsp salt or to taste
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard optional, for tang
  • 1 tsp lemon juice freshly squeezed, optional

Method
 

Prepare the Chicken:
  1. Shred or dice cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. If using rotisserie chicken, remove the skin and bones first.
Mix the Ingredients:
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken, mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), diced celery, and any optional add-ins like nuts or fruit.
Season the Salad:
  1. Add salt, pepper, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Stir everything together until evenly coated. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Chill and Serve:
  1. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled on croissants, bread, crackers, lettuce wraps, or as a topping for salads.

Notes

  • Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Customizations: Add jalapeños for spice, use a vinaigrette for a lighter version, or incorporate fresh herbs like dill or parsley for extra flavor.
  • Serving Ideas: Serve with a side of fruit salad or soup for a complete meal.