If you’re looking for a dish that’s creamy, refreshing, and endlessly versatile, this chicken salad recipe is the answer. It’s the perfect balance of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, tangy dressing, and a touch of sweetness from cranberries or grapes. Whether served in a sandwich, on a bed of leafy greens, or straight from the bowl, it’s a crowd-pleasing comfort food that works for lunch, dinner, or even party spreads.
This recipe isn’t just delicious—it’s also quick and customizable. With only a few staple ingredients and less than 20 minutes of prep time, you’ll have a dish that’s ideal for everything from easy weeknight dinners to meal prep. The creamy mayo and Greek yogurt dressing keeps things light but flavorful, while crunchy celery, walnuts, and tangy Dijon mustard bring layers of texture and taste. It’s a healthy, protein-packed recipe that can be enjoyed in countless ways.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Quick & Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, plus a short chill time for the flavors to develop.
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Healthy & Balanced: Made with lean chicken, Greek yogurt, nuts, and veggies for a wholesome dish.
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Versatile: Serve in sandwiches, wraps, lettuce cups, or over mixed greens.
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Family-Friendly: A dish everyone enjoys—great for picky eaters and protein lovers alike.
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Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep and easy to store for lunches or busy nights.
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Customizable: Add fruits, nuts, or seasonings to make it your own.
Ingredient Breakdown
Here’s what makes each component of this chicken salad recipe shine:
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Cooked Chicken (2 cups): The foundation of the salad. Use leftover rotisserie chicken, poached breasts, or grilled chicken for convenience. Provides lean protein and hearty texture.
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Mayonnaise (½ cup): Adds creamy richness and smooth texture to the dressing. Classic base for chicken salad.
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Greek Yogurt (¼ cup): Lightens the dressing, cuts down on calories, and adds tangy flavor plus extra protein.
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Dijon Mustard (1 tbsp): Brings a zesty kick that balances the creaminess and adds depth.
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Celery (1 stalk, diced): Essential crunch and freshness to keep the salad light.
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Red Onion (¼ cup, finely chopped): Adds a sharp bite that balances the sweetness of fruit.
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Cranberries or Grapes (¼ cup): A pop of sweetness that pairs beautifully with savory chicken and nuts.
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Walnuts or Almonds (¼ cup, chopped): Nutty crunch that enhances texture and heartiness.
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Parsley (1 tbsp, chopped): Fresh herbal note that brightens up the dish.
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Lemon Juice (1 tbsp): Adds brightness and keeps the flavors balanced.
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Salt & Pepper (to taste): Enhances and rounds out all the other flavors.
Pro Tips
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Use Cold Chicken: Start with chilled cooked chicken for the freshest taste and best texture.
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Finely Dice Vegetables: Smaller pieces ensure even distribution of flavor in every bite.
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Toast the Nuts: Lightly toasting walnuts or almonds boosts their flavor and adds crunch.
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Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad sit for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Adjust Dressing Ratio: If you prefer a creamier salad, add more mayo; for lighter, use extra Greek yogurt.
Ingredient Swaps & Variations
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Protein Options: Try turkey, tuna, or even shredded rotisserie duck for a twist.
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Fruit Variations: Swap cranberries for chopped apples, pears, or pomegranate seeds for seasonal flair.
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Nuts & Seeds: Use pecans, sunflower seeds, or pumpkin seeds instead of walnuts or almonds.
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Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of cayenne, hot sauce, or chopped jalapeños for heat.
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Herb Options: Add dill, basil, or cilantro for different flavor profiles.
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Dressing Variation: Swap Dijon for honey mustard or add a spoonful of sour cream for extra tang.
Serving Suggestions
This chicken salad is as versatile as it is delicious. Here are a few serving ideas:
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Classic Sandwich: Pile it on toasted sourdough, multigrain bread, or croissants.
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Lettuce Wraps: Serve in romaine leaves or butter lettuce for a low-carb option.
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On Greens: Spoon over a bed of mixed greens for a quick, protein-packed lunch.
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With Crackers: Pair with buttery crackers or pita chips as a light appetizer or snack.
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Stuffed Avocados or Tomatoes: Hollow out veggies and fill with chicken salad for an elegant party idea.
Make Ahead & Storage Tips
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Meal Prep Friendly: Make the salad up to 2 days ahead and store it chilled. The flavors deepen over time.
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Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
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Freezing: Not recommended, as mayo and yogurt separate when thawed.
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Refreshing Leftovers: If the salad becomes too thick after chilling, stir in a splash of lemon juice or yogurt before serving.
Cultural or Historical Notes
Chicken salad has been a staple in American kitchens since the late 19th century, often served at picnics, church gatherings, and luncheons. Inspired by European traditions of mixing meats with creamy sauces, the American version evolved to include fruits, nuts, and mayonnaise-based dressings. Today, it remains a comfort food classic—a dish that can be dressed up for parties or enjoyed as a simple, nourishing lunch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What’s the best chicken to use for chicken salad?
A: Rotisserie chicken is the easiest option, but poached or grilled chicken breasts work great. Aim for boneless, skinless meat for the best texture.
Q: Can I make chicken salad healthier?
A: Absolutely. Use all Greek yogurt instead of mayo, swap nuts for seeds, and add more fresh veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers.
Q: How long does chicken salad last in the fridge?
A: Stored properly, it lasts up to 4 days in an airtight container. Always keep it chilled.
Q: Can I make chicken salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! In fact, the flavors taste even better after resting in the fridge for a few hours. Perfect for meal prep or party planning.
Q: Can I freeze chicken salad?
A: Freezing isn’t recommended due to the mayo and yogurt base, which can separate and lose their creamy texture when thawed.
The Best Chicken Salad You'll Ever Make
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Add chicken, celery, red onion, cranberries (or grapes), nuts, and parsley. Stir until evenly coated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if needed.
- Chill chicken salad in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
- Serve on its own, in a sandwich, or over a bed of greens.