This Easy Classic Chicken Salad brings together shredded chicken, crunchy celery, creamy mayo, a hint of mustard, and optional herbs into a nostalgic dish that tastes like home. It’s effortless to prepare, endlessly versatile, and perfect for weeknight lunches, picnics, or a lightened dinner with a green salad.
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A Memory in Every Bite
My mom would always make this chicken salad for family gatherings, with fresh chicken and crisp celery stirred gently into a tangy mixture of mayo and mustard. It was always a hit—simple, satisfying, and full of flavor without being heavy. Every time I make this salad, I get a warm reminder of home and simplicity.
This salad shares that same comfort mirrored in dishes like my Slow Cooker Tuscan Garlic Chicken, where wholesome ingredients turn into satisfying meals with minimal fuss.
Ingredients That Feel Familiar
What You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked shredded chicken (breast or thigh) | 2 cups |
| Celery, finely chopped | 1 cup |
| Mayonnaise | ½ cup (or half mayo, half yogurt) |
| Dijon or yellow mustard | 1–2 teaspoons |
| Lemon juice (fresh, optional) | 1 teaspoon |
| Fresh chopped parsley or chives (optional) | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt and black pepper | to taste |
Prep Pointers for Best Results
Use precisely shredded chicken for a smoother texture—rotisserie chicken is super convenient, or you can poach your own. Save chicken broth to liquid the mixture if needed. Chop celery into small pieces for even distribution. Adjust mayo and mustard gradually, tasting as you go to find the perfect balance of creaminess and tang. A light squeeze of lemon brightens the overall flavor.
It’s flexible: to lighten up, use Greek yogurt instead of mayo; for richer flavor, add a tablespoon of avocado or olive oil to the dressing instead. Herbs like dill or chives bring freshness. For heartier texture, stir in minced apple or crisp chopped vegetables like cucumber.
In the same way this salad balances a heavier meal, it pairs perfectly with meals like my Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Potatoes. Serve them together for a contrasting mix of richness and refreshing simplicity.
Step-by-Step Technique
Step 1: Combine Base Ingredients
In a bowl, place shredded chicken and finely chopped celery. Add chopped herbs if using. Gently combine with a wooden spoon or spatula to keep chicken from becoming too fine.
Step 2: Blend the Dressing
Stir in mayonnaise and mustard. For a balanced dressing, go half mayo and half Greek yogurt. If desired, add lemon juice here. Mix lightly until everything is coated evenly.
Step 3: Season and Adjust
Season with salt and pepper. Adjust creaminess or tang—add more mayo or mustard in small increments to reach the flavor you love. Folding in parsley or chives at the end adds a fresh pop.
Step 4: Chill or Enjoy Immediately
Chill the salad for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. You can serve it immediately too—just keep tasting and adjusting. Add mix-ins like grapes or nuts right before serving to preserve their texture.
Print
Easy Classic Chicken Salad
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Easy Classic Chicken Salad brings together shredded chicken, celery, mayo, mustard, and herbs into a creamy, nostalgic dish that’s perfect for lunches and quick meals.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked shredded chicken (breast or thigh)
1 cup finely chopped celery
1/2 cup mayonnaise (or half mayo, half yogurt)
1–2 teaspoons Dijon or yellow mustard
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon chopped parsley or chives (optional)
Instructions
1. Place shredded chicken and chopped celery in a large mixing bowl.
2. Add mayonnaise, mustard, and lemon juice. Mix gently until evenly coated.
3. Season with salt and pepper. Adjust mayo or mustard to taste.
4. Fold in fresh herbs if using. Stir gently to avoid mashing the chicken.
5. Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes or serve immediately.
6. Serve on bread, in lettuce wraps, or with crackers.
Notes
Use rotisserie chicken or poached chicken for easy prep.
For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for part of the mayo.
Add-ins like diced apples, grapes, or nuts make great variations.
Keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days in a sealed container.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: Easy Chicken Salad, Classic Chicken Salad Recipe, Lunch Ideas, Mayo Chicken Salad, Homemade Chicken Salad
Creative Variations to Try
Customize your chicken salad depending on what you have: add diced apples or dried cranberries for sweetness, chopped almonds or pecans for crunch, or peppery arugula or grated carrots for extra color and nutrition.
Some fun twists include stirring in curry powder for a curried chicken salad, or adding curry mayonnaise and diced mango for a tropical flair. Serve over toast, stuffed into pita pockets, or wrapped in lettuce leaves for a lighter, carb-conscious option.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I keep chicken salad?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If celery softens over time, refresh with fresh chopped veggies before serving.
Can I prepare this ahead for a picnic?
Absolutely! Make it the night before and mix-in crunchy ingredients just before eating. Pack chilled in sealed containers. It’s ideal for prepping ahead for on-the-go meals.
Is this recipe diet-friendly?
Yes—it’s protein-rich and moderate in carbs. Swap mayo for yogurt or avocado to reduce fat. Add chopped veggies or serve on greens to increase fiber. It’s flexible for low-carb, keto, or balanced nutrition plans.
Serving Suggestions & Meal Pairings
Serve this chicken salad in lettuce wraps, between slices of your favorite bread, atop fresh greens, or with crackers. Add sliced fruit, pickles, or chips on the side for an elevated lunch. It’s great in lunch boxes, tailgates, or casual alfresco meals.
You can also serve it as part of a light dinner spread with a bowl of soup like the One-Pan French Onion Chicken Rice or alongside roasted vegetables. Its simplicity balances richer dishes on the table.
Conclusion
This Easy Classic Chicken Salad is more than a recipe—it’s a customizable, dependable favorite. It carries the familiarity of Mom’s kitchen, and yet adapts beautifully to modern flavors, dietary preferences, and meal variety. Make it your own and enjoy a bowlful of nostalgia any day.