This No‑Onion Chicken Salad is smooth, creamy, and built for picky eaters or anyone avoiding onions. It combines shredded chicken, crunchy celery, mayo, and gentle seasoning into a palatable and easy-to-enjoy dish—ideal for kids’ lunches or simple meals without onions.
Table of Contents
Why This Onion-Free Version Works So Well
Some people just can’t tolerate onions—whether it’s due to taste or dietary sensitivity. This salad avoids onions entirely but still delivers classic chicken salad comfort using celery, creamy dressing, and well-seasoned chicken. You won’t miss the bite of onion, but you still get the familiar flavor.
It tastes like the same good-old chicken salad I learned to love, similar in homey vibe to my Classic Chicken Salad, but made without any onion—just soft, mellow comfort.
Ingredients & Prep Tips
What You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cooked shredded chicken (breast or thighs) | 2 cups |
| Celery, finely chopped | 1 cup |
| Mayonnaise or mayo-yogurt blend | ½ cup |
| Dijon or yellow mustard | 1 tsp |
| Lemon juice (optional) | ½ tsp |
| Salt & black pepper | to taste |
| Fresh herbs (parsley or chives), optional | 1 tbsp, chopped |
Prep Tips for Subtle Flavor & Texture
Shred the chicken finely so the salad stays smooth and easy to eat for sensitive eaters. Chop celery in small pieces to keep crunch minimal but present. Adjust mayo and mustard to mild levels, and taste as you go. A squeeze of lemon brightens without overwhelming.
If you’d like to add a touch more interest, stir in finely diced apple or seedless grapes. Just keep the pieces small for consistency. Serve this salad alongside lighter offerings like my One‑Pan French Onion Chicken Rice, using the rice to soak up bits of salad into a balanced meal.
Step-by-Step Method
1. Combine Chicken and Celery
Place the shredded chicken and chopped celery into a mixing bowl. If using herbs, add them now. Stir gently to combine without overworking the chicken.
2. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together mayo (or mayo-yogurt), mustard, lemon juice (if using), salt, and pepper. Aim for a gentle, non-spicy flavor. Pour over the chicken and mix until coating is even.
3. Taste and Adjust
Taste the mixture. Add more mayo or mustard if needed, but always in small increments. Seasoning for kids or picky eaters should be subtle and balanced. Once done, chill for at least 30 minutes to let flavors blend.
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No‑Onion Chicken Salad for Picky Eaters
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This creamy No-Onion Chicken Salad is perfect for picky eaters. It’s mild, smooth, and made with chicken, mayo, and crunchy celery—no onions, no fuss.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
1 cup finely chopped celery
1/2 cup mayonnaise or mayo-yogurt blend
1 teaspoon Dijon or yellow mustard
1/2 teaspoon 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 mixing bowl.
2. Whisk together mayonnaise, mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
3. Pour dressing over the chicken mixture and mix until coated evenly.
4. Stir in chopped herbs if using. Mix gently.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning. Chill 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
Add grated carrot or apple for extra color and sweetness.
Serve on toast, lettuce wraps, or in sandwiches.
Perfect for lunchboxes or soft meals for young kids.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 330mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Chicken Salad Recipe No Onion, Easy Chicken Salad, Kid Friendly Lunch, No Onion Recipe
Options & Variations
Want more flavor without onions? Try finely grated carrot for sweetness, mild shredded cucumber, or a small pinch of smoked paprika. For paleo or dairy-free versions, use avocado mayo or mashed avocado. For a heartier version, stir in diced boiled egg or cooked quinoa.
This salad also pairs well with soft bread, lettuce wraps, or crackers. It’s perfect when packed for travel or school lunches. It even works finely crumbled into soup bowls like my creamy vegetable soup for added protein and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can kids eat it easily?
Yes—because it’s smooth, soft, and free of strong tastes, it’s ideal for young eaters. Cut into finger-food-sized portions and serve with soft bread or crackers.
Can I prepare this salad ahead?
You can make it up to 2 days ahead and store in airtight containers. Keep celery or any crunchy add-ins separate until serving to preserve texture.
Does it freeze well?
Mayo-based salads don’t freeze well—they separate. Instead, freeze cooked chicken separately and mix into dressing fresh when ready to serve.
Serving Ideas & Meal Pairings
Serve this salad in pitas, between soft bread slices, on toast, or atop salad greens. Add sliced cucumber or tomato for freshness. Serve cold with a bowl of soup, fruit salad, or side chips for a family-friendly lunch.
It pairs nicely with other meals like my Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Potatoes—use leftovers of that chicken to make this salad or serve alongside to balance richness.
Parting Thoughts
This No‑Onion Chicken Salad is made for pickiness—and for ease. It lets you serve tender, mild-flavored chicken salad that feels familiar and gentle on the palate. Whether for kids, onion-sensitive eaters, or anyone craving uncomplicated flavors, it’s a dependable favorite.
Keep it simple, keep it smooth—and enjoy that creamy nostalgia in every bite.