best chicken salad recipe

The Best best chicken salad recipe

Classic Creamy Chicken Salad

4.8 from 1949 votes

A delightful and creamy chicken salad with tender poached chicken, crisp celery, and a tangy dressing. Perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or enjoying on its own with crackers.

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Prep Time20 mins

Cook Time15 mins

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time35 mins

Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
• 4 cups water
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp black peppercorns

For the Salad

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp honey
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 cup diced celery
• ½ cup diced red onion
• ½ cup halved red grapes (optional)
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
• ¼ cup chopped pecans or almonds (toasted, optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1. 1
   In a large pot, combine water, salt, bay leaf, and peppercorns. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
2. 2
   Add chicken breasts to the pot, ensuring they are fully submerged. Poach for 12-15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
3. 3
   Remove chicken from the pot and let it cool. Once cool enough to handle, shred or dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
4. 4
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
5. 5
   Add the diced chicken, celery, red onion, grapes (if using), parsley, and nuts (if using) to the bowl. Gently fold everything together until well combined.
6. 6
   Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together before serving.
7. 7
   Serve chilled on bread for sandwiches, in wraps, over greens, or with crackers.

🔧Equipment

• Large pot
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22g💛Saturated Fat: 3.5g❤️Cholesterol: 70mg🧂Sodium: 650mg🌾Total Carbs: 12g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

Tips: For extra flavor, use rotisserie chicken instead of poaching. You can also add diced apples or dried cranberries for a sweet twist. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Chicken Salad

1. What makes a chicken salad recipe the “best”?

The “best” chicken salad recipe typically balances flavor, texture, and freshness. Key factors include using high-quality, tender chicken (like poached or rotisserie), a creamy yet balanced dressing (mayo, Greek yogurt, or a mix), and a mix of crunchy and fresh ingredients (celery, apples, grapes, nuts). Seasoning with herbs, lemon juice, or Dijon mustard adds depth, while personal preferences—like adding avocado or cranberries—can elevate it further.

2. Should I use mayonnaise or Greek yogurt in chicken salad?

Both work well! Mayonnaise adds rich, creamy flavor, while Greek yogurt offers a lighter, tangier option with less fat. Many recipes use a 50/50 mix for the best of both worlds. If you prefer a dairy-free version, try avocado, hummus, or a vegan mayo substitute. Adjust seasoning (like salt, pepper, or lemon juice) to compensate for the dressing’s tanginess.

3. How do I keep chicken salad from getting watery?

To prevent a soggy chicken salad, pat the chicken dry after cooking and drain any excess liquid from ingredients like celery or pickles. Avoid adding fruits with high water content (like watermelon) unless serving immediately. If using juicy ingredients (e.g., grapes or apples), toss them in a little lemon juice or vinegar first. Store the salad in an airtight container and add the dressing just before serving if prepping ahead.

4. What are the best mix-ins for chicken salad?

Popular mix-ins include:
– Crunchy: Celery, bell peppers, red onion, water chestnuts, or toasted nuts (almonds, pecans, walnuts).
– Sweet: Red grapes, diced apples, dried cranberries, or pineapple.
– Herbs: Fresh dill, parsley, tarragon, or chives.
– Savory: Crumbled bacon, avocado, pickles, or olives.
– Spicy: Jalapeños, hot sauce, or a dash of cayenne.
Choose 2–3 mix-ins to avoid overpowering the dish.

5. How long does chicken salad last in the fridge?

Homemade chicken salad stays fresh for 3–4 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. If using store-bought rotisserie chicken, check its expiration date and aim to eat the salad within 3 days. Freezing is not recommended, as the mayo or yogurt can separate and the texture of veggies/fruits will degrade. Always smell and inspect the salad before eating if stored longer than 2 days.