This Chicken Salad is a vibrant blend of creamy textures and fresh, zesty flavors that come together in just 15 minutes. Perfectly balanced with tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a tangy dressing, it’s a dish that feels indulgent yet light. The mix of crunchy celery and smooth mayo creates a delightful contrast, while a hint of lemon adds a refreshing brightness. It’s a quick, satisfying meal that’s as versatile as it is delicious.
Packed with protein and healthy fats, this salad is a nourishing option that keeps you full and energized. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of savory and tangy notes, making it a crowd-pleaser for lunches or light dinners. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s the ultimate go-to for busy days. Serve it on greens, in a sandwich, or straight from the bowl—it’s always a hit.
Ingredients for Chicken Salad
- 1 lb (453 g) cooked, chopped chicken (use rotisserie chicken for convenience)
- ⅔ cup (85 g) chopped apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well for a crisp texture)
- ⅓ cup (48 g) finely diced yellow onion (soak in cold water for 5 minutes to reduce sharpness)
- 1 (53 g) celery stalk, chopped
- ¾ cup (160 g) mayo (substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- ⅛ teaspoon table salt, plus more to taste
- ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper, plus more to taste
- Bread or croissants, for making sandwiches
- Lettuce, for sandwiches (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, chopped apple, diced onion, chopped celery, mayo, salt, and pepper.
- Stir well until all ingredients are evenly coated and thoroughly combined.
- Taste-test the mixture and add more salt and pepper if needed, adjusting to your preference.
- For the best flavor, cover the bowl and chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Serve the chicken salad cold on sliced bread, buns, or croissants. Add lettuce for extra crunch if desired.
- Alternatively, scoop the salad with crackers for a quick, no-bread option.
Elevate Your Chicken Salad with These Flavor Boosters
Want to take your chicken salad to the next level? Try adding a handful of chopped walnuts or almonds for a satisfying crunch. A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the flavors, while a teaspoon of Dijon mustard adds a tangy kick. For a fresh twist, toss in some chopped herbs like parsley or dill. These small additions can make a big difference in your dish!
Creative Serving Ideas Beyond Sandwiches
While chicken salad is classic on bread or croissants, don’t limit yourself! Try stuffing it into avocado halves for a low-carb option or wrapping it in lettuce leaves for a refreshing, crunchy bite. You can also serve it as a delicious dip with crackers or veggie sticks. For a heartier meal, scoop it over a bed of greens for a quick and easy salad.
How to Store and Keep It Fresh
Your chicken salad will stay fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For the best texture, give it a good stir before serving if it’s been sitting for a while. Avoid freezing, as the mayo may separate and the veggies could become mushy. If you’re preparing ahead, store the chicken salad separately from bread or lettuce to keep everything fresh!
Quick & Easy Time-Saving Tips
Short on time? Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken to skip the cooking step. You can also chop your veggies and apple the night before and store them in the fridge. For an even faster mix, toss all the ingredients into a food processor and pulse a few times—just be careful not to over-process!
Recipe Variations to Mix Things Up
Feeling adventurous? Swap the mayo for Greek yogurt for a lighter, protein-packed version. Add a handful of dried cranberries or grapes for a sweet contrast, or mix in a bit of curry powder for a warm, spicy twist. You can also try using different fruits, like diced pineapple or pear, to keep things interesting. The possibilities are endless!
Chicken Salad
Ingredients
- 1 lb cooked chopped chicken
- ⅔ cup chopped apple see note
- ⅓ cup finely diced yellow onion
- 1 celery stalk chopped
- ¾ cup mayo
- ⅛ teaspoon table salt plus more to taste
- ⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper plus more to taste
- Bread or croissants for making sandwiches
- Lettuce for sandwiches optional
Instructions
- Combine chicken, apple, onion, celery, mayo, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl and stir until ingredients are well-combined. Taste-test and add additional salt and pepper as needed.
- For best results, cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Serve cold on sliced bread, buns, or croissants (or scoop it with crackers).