You guys have told us that it is also a great way to use up any leftover chicken you may have in the fridge. So this is why today we present our Perfect Recipe for Chicken Salad. This simple and easy recipe will yield 4 servings, making it perfect for a small family or for meal prep.
This chicken salad can also be customized to fit your dietary preferences. For a vegetarian option, you can use diced tofu or chickpeas instead of chicken. And for a vegan version, you can use a dairy-free mayonnaise and omit the chicken altogether.
Perfect Recipe for Chicken Salad: Our Family’s Secret for the Ultimate Refreshing Meal
I remember summer barbecues at my grandma’s house. The kids ran around the yard while she whipped up this salad in her old wooden bowl. Everyone fought over the last scoop. It worked for picnics, stuffed in sandwiches, or just eaten straight with a fork. What makes it stand out? The flavors mix sweet, savory, and fresh without any fuss. You get protein that fills you up, but it stays light enough for hot days.
This recipe shines because it’s easy to throw together in under 30 minutes. No fancy tools needed. Just basic stuff from your fridge. It’s versatile too – tweak it for your taste, and it always wows a crowd. Stick around. I’ll share the full perfect chicken salad recipe below. Plus, tips to make it feel like your own family heirloom.
Why It’s Called the “Perfect” Chicken Salad
Roman calls it perfect because it nails the balance. Creamy from mayo, but not too rich or greasy. Crunch from celery and onions keeps it lively. Sweet pops from grapes (if added) that adds fun without sugar overload. It’s packed with lean protein – about 20 grams per serving – so it satisfies without weighing you down.
Chicken salad popped up big in the South during the 1920s. Cookbooks like ‘Joy of Cooking’ spread the word. It fit busy lives then, just like now. Our version tweaks that classic feel. It’s timeless, light on calories at around 300 per cup, yet hearty enough for a meal. No wonder it wins fans every time.
Incorporating Mix-Ins and Flavors
Now add the fun stuff. Toss in diced celery, chopped onion, grapes, salt, pepper, mustard, and dill. Stir until everything blends. Don’t overmix – this will keep those chunks intact.
Cover the bowl. Pop it in the fridge for 30 minutes which helps to keep it cool and fresh. Flavors need time to mingle. Use a rubber spatula for smooth stirring. It scrapes the bowl clean without smashing bits.
After resting, taste a spoonful. Add a pinch more pepper if it needs punch. This step makes your chicken salad recipe shine.
Why This Perfect Chicken Salad Recipe Wins Every Time
This recipe clocks in under 30 minutes. Uses stuff you likely have on hand. Costs pennies per serving – chicken’s cheap, veggies too.
It’s more than food. It sparks memories, like grandma’s laughs around the table. Light at 300 calories, yet filling. Wins for health, taste, and ease.
Crowds love it. Potlucks? Gone first. Your turn to try the family secret.
✅ Quick Tips: Dietary Adaptations for Everyone.
Gluten-free? Skip bread; use lettuce cups. Vegan version swaps chicken for chickpeas. Mash them lightly for texture. Low-carb folks, go heavy on veggies. Double celery, skip fruit. For bigger groups, double everything. It scales without hassle. Make it fit your crew. No one misses out at family meals.
Simple Yet Perfect Recipe for Chicken Salad
Description
Our simple chicken salad recipe is easy, delicious, and can be tailored to your liking. It's perfect for a quick lunch at home or to bring to a picnic or potluck. So, the next time you have some leftover chicken, give this recipe a try and you won't be disappointed!
Ingredients
Instructions
Combine the mayonnaise, dried cranberries, diced celery, red onion, sliced almonds, and shredded chicken in a large mixing bowl. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.
- Add in the dijon mustard and mix again. The mustard adds a tangy and slightly spicy flavor to the salad.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that the mayonnaise and dijon mustard already have some salt in them, so be careful not to overdo it.
- If you prefer a creamier chicken salad, you can add more mayonnaise at this point.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to blend together and the salad to become even more delicious.
- When ready to serve, scoop the chicken salad onto a bed of lettuce leaves. You can also serve it on bread or croissants for a heartier meal.
- If you're feeling fancy, you can also add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill on top for a pop of color and added flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
Serving Size 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 196kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 14.7g23%
- Total Carbohydrate 7g3%
- Sugars 7.5g
- Protein 18.2g37%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
This chicken salad is not only delicious on its own, but it's also versatile. Here are a few ways you can switch it up:
- Use different types of nuts such as walnuts, cashews, or pecans for added crunch.
- Swap the dried cranberries for raisins, chopped apples, or grapes for a touch of sweetness.
- Add some diced avocado for a creamy and nutritious addition.
- For a healthier option, you can use plain Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter dressing.
