Name: Chicken Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste; ½ teaspoon fresh ground pepper, or to taste; 4 cups chicken, cooked and diced; 1 cup seedless red grapes, cut in half or quartered, depending on size; 1 cup red apple, chopped; 1 cup celery ribs, chopped, about 2 stalks; 1 cup pecans, walnuts, or almonds, chopped or sliced; bread, croissants, lettuce cups, pita bread, crackers

Jump to Recipe·5.2 from 13 reviews

This Chicken Salad is the answer to every craving for something fresh, flavorful, and easy, whether you’re planning lunch with friends or simply prepping meals for the week. With juicy chicken, sweet apples, crunchy grapes, buttery pecans, and crisp celery, all lightly coated in a vibrant, creamy dressing, each bite is a perfect balance of taste and texture. Serve it on a croissant, pile it into lettuce cups, or scoop it up with crackers—it never fails to brighten the table or your mood!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Chicken Salad is how it turns everyday ingredients into a truly special dish. Each element brings something unique: color, crunch, creaminess, or a burst of fresh flavor, all coming together in minutes!

Mayonnaise: The silky base of the dressing, providing creaminess and that classic tang we all expect in a Chicken Salad.
Fresh Lemon Juice: A squeeze of brightness that keeps the salad zesty and lively.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped finely for an herbal note that freshens everything up.
Kosher Salt: Brings out every flavor in the salad—taste as you go for perfection!
Fresh Ground Pepper: Adds an earthy kick that pairs especially well with the creamy dressing.
Chicken (cooked and diced): Use roasted, poached, or leftover rotisserie—whatever you have is perfect for this salad.
Seedless Red Grapes: Sweet and juicy, and their vibrant color makes every spoonful beautiful.
Red Apple: Adds a crisp texture and tart sweetness; leave the peel on for even more color.
Celery Ribs: Brings a delightful crunch that keeps the salad light and refreshing.
Pecans (or walnuts/almonds): Buttery and rich, nuts make every bite extra special; toast lightly for even more flavor.
Bread, Croissants, Lettuce Cups, Pita Bread, Crackers: So many ways to serve Chicken Salad, each offering a unique twist!

How to Make Chicken Salad

Step 1: Whisk Up the Dressing

Start by taking out a medium bowl and whisking together the mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is smooth and creamy—this dressing is the heart of your Chicken Salad, so make sure it’s well blended and perfectly seasoned!

Step 2: Toss Together the Main Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add your diced chicken, halved grapes, chopped apple, celery, and whatever nuts you’ve chosen. Each ingredient adds its own character—fruity, crunchy, or savory—so mix them gently to keep all those pretty pieces intact.

Step 3: Combine with Dressing

Pour that luscious dressing all over the chicken mixture. Stir everything gently but thoroughly. You want every bit coated, but you don’t want to mash the grapes or apples. When it’s creamy and irresistible looking, you know it’s just right!

Step 4: Chill for the Best Flavor

Cover your bowl with plastic wrap or pop everything into an airtight container. Chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour so the flavors can really meld together. Trust me—the wait is worth it, as everything becomes even more delicious.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Now comes the fun part: spoon your Chicken Salad onto croissants, fill lettuce cups, or load up your plate with crackers. However you choose to serve it, get ready for lots of “Wow, this is amazing!” moments.

How to Serve Chicken Salad

Garnishes

For a finishing touch, try a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or dill, a few extra halved grapes, or a handful of toasted nuts on top of your Chicken Salad. Not only does this add extra flavor and visual appeal, it makes every serving feel like something special prepared just for you!

Side Dishes

While Chicken Salad can certainly stand on its own, I love serving it with a bright green salad, kettle-cooked chips, or a crisp dill pickle. A side of fruit salad or even a simple cup of soup makes it a well-rounded, satisfying meal for any occasion.

Creative Ways to Present

Let your imagination take over! Try stuffing Chicken Salad into pita pockets, rolling it up in a wrap, or even serving it in hollowed-out tomatoes for a fun summery twist. Tiny phyllo cups make adorable appetizers for parties, while a big scoop atop mixed greens turns this recipe into the ultimate power lunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Chicken Salad left after serving (which is honestly rare!), just transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It stays perfectly fresh for up to three days, making it a fantastic make-ahead option for busy weeks.

Freezing

While you technically can freeze Chicken Salad, the creamy dressing and crisp fruits and veggies don’t always thaw beautifully. The texture may change, so it’s really best enjoyed fresh from the fridge within a few days of making.

Reheating

Chicken Salad is meant to be served cold or at cool room temperature. Simply give it a gentle stir after taking it out of the fridge, and it’s good to go! If you like, let it sit on the counter for 10 minutes before serving to take off the chill.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken in my Chicken Salad?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut. Its tender texture and savory flavor blend beautifully with the other ingredients, making this Chicken Salad even easier to throw together.

Are there alternatives to mayonnaise in the dressing?

Definitely. If you’re looking for a lighter twist, try swapping part or all of the mayo for Greek yogurt. It still gives a creamy texture and adds extra tang, making the Chicken Salad even more refreshing.

Is it possible to prepare Chicken Salad in advance?

Yes, and it’s even better that way! Preparing Chicken Salad ahead of time gives all the flavors a chance to blend. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator, and wait to add any delicate greens or garnishes until just before serving.

What’s the best way to chop ingredients for Chicken Salad?

Aim for uniformly sized pieces so everything mixes together evenly and each bite feels balanced. About half-inch cubes for chicken, and small, bite-sized pieces for fruit and nuts work really well.

Can I make Chicken Salad nut-free?

Of course! If allergies are a concern or you’re just not a fan of nuts, simply leave them out or substitute with roasted pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a great crunch.

Final Thoughts

No matter how you serve it, Chicken Salad is that unbeatable blend of comfort and flair that makes any meal memorable. I hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy every last bite. Your new lunchtime favorite is just a few steps away!