A Traditional Chicken Salad is a classic dish that combines tender chicken with creamy dressing, crisp vegetables, and a hint of seasonings. It’s versatile and can be served on sandwiches, as a dip, or atop a salad. Here’s a simple and delicious recipe to make a traditional chicken salad:
Traditional Chicken Salad Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or chopped, rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (you can use Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra tang)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 cup diced celery
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds or chopped pecans (optional, for crunch)
- 1/2 cup red grapes (halved) or apples (diced) for a touch of sweetness (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the chicken: If you haven’t already, cook the chicken by poaching, roasting, or using leftover rotisserie chicken. Shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Make the dressing: In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard (if using), lemon juice, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Stir to combine until smooth.
- Add the veggies and fruits: Add the diced celery, red onion, and any optional ingredients like grapes, apples, or parsley to the bowl.
- Mix the chicken: Add the shredded or chopped chicken to the bowl and stir until everything is well coated with the dressing.
- Optional mix-ins: If you’re adding nuts (like almonds or pecans), stir them in at this point for some extra crunch.
- Chill and serve: Cover the chicken salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. This also makes the salad extra refreshing.
- Serve: Serve the traditional chicken salad in a variety of ways:
- On a bed of greens for a light lunch or dinner.
- In a sandwich or wrap, paired with fresh bread or tortillas.
- As a dip with crackers or vegetables.
Tips:
- Chicken options: You can use poached, roasted, or grilled chicken for this recipe. Rotisserie chicken works great for convenience.
- Healthier version: Substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lower-fat version.
- Flavor variations: Add a teaspoon of curry powder for a curried chicken salad or a tablespoon of chopped pickles for a tangy twist.
- Add-ins: Feel free to customize your chicken salad with extra ingredients like hard-boiled eggs, cucumber, olives, or bell peppers.
This Traditional Chicken Salad is a perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and savory flavors—ideal for a picnic, lunch, or a quick snack!