The other day, I found myself longing for a taste of summer, something refreshing that could easily transition from lunch to dinner. That’s when my mind drifted to a classic chicken salad, a dish that never fails to impress with its vibrant flavors and satisfying texture. As the juicy chunks of chicken mix with the crispness of celery and the sweetness from apple, I couldn’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia wash over me—memories of picnics and family gatherings filled with laughter.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can enjoy it on its own, pile it high on a crusty baguette, or toss it onto a bed of greens for a quick, nutritious meal. Plus, with just a few simple ingredients thrown together in under 30 minutes, this dish proves that homemade doesn’t have to be complicated. So whether you’ve had a long day or are looking to impress guests without the fuss, this classic chicken salad is the perfect answer. Get ready to savor a delightful blend of flavors that will make your taste buds dance!
Why is Classic Chicken Salad a Must-Make?
Simplicity at its best: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Fresh ingredients: Every bite is packed with crunchy celery, sweet apple, and savory chicken, ensuring a vibrant flavor profile.
Versatile serving options: Enjoy it on its own, in a sandwich, or over greens for a delicious and filling meal.
Crowd-pleaser appeal: It’s sure to impress family and friends, making it a fantastic dish for gatherings or picnics.
Healthy and satisfying: With lean chicken and crisp veggies, you’ll feel good about what you’re eating without sacrificing taste!
Classic Chicken Salad Ingredients
• Gather all the essentials for a delightful dish!
For the Salad
- Chicken breasts – Use 1 pound of raw boneless, skinless chicken for the best results, or substitute with 2 to 3 cups of cooked chicken meat if you’re in a hurry.
- Celery – 2 ribs chopped will provide the perfect crunch in every bite.
- Red bell pepper – 1/2 pepper, seeded and chopped, adds a sweet, vibrant color to your salad.
- Green olives – 4 to 6 pitted and minced for a salty kick that complements the chicken beautifully.
- Red onion – 1/4 cup chopped to give an aromatic sharpness that balances the flavors.
- Apple – 1/2 to 1 cored and chopped for a hint of sweetness that elevates the Classic Chicken Salad.
- Iceberg lettuce – 1/3 head, sliced and chopped, adds a refreshing crunch when folded in just before serving.
For the Dressing
- Mayonnaise – 5 tablespoons for a creamy base that pulls all the flavors together.
- Plum preserves – 1 tablespoon, or substitute with any sweet berry preserve, or less honey if you’d like a lighter touch.
- Fresh lemon juice – 2 teaspoons provide a zesty brightness that enhances the overall flavor.
- Salt and pepper – Adjust to taste for a perfectly seasoned salad that satisfies!
How to Make Classic Chicken Salad
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Boil the Chicken: Bring a pot with 2 quarts of well-salted water to a boil. Add the chicken chunks and let the water return to a simmer. Turn off the heat and cover. Let it sit for 15 minutes to poach gently.
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Make the Dressing: In a large bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, plum preserves, and lemon juice. Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity by adding more preserves or lemon juice as needed, then season with salt and pepper.
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Combine Veggies: Add the chopped celery, red bell pepper, minced olives, red onion, and apple to the bowl with the dressing. Gently mix everything together until well coated.
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Add Chicken: Remove the chicken from the poaching water and dice it into bite-sized pieces. Fold the chicken into the veggie mixture until everything is evenly combined.
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Toss in Lettuce: When you’re ready to serve, gently fold in the sliced and chopped iceberg lettuce for a fresh crunch.
Optional: Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Classic Chicken Salad preparations are perfect for those busy weeknights! You can poach and dice the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its moisture. The veggies and dressing can also be prepped ahead of time—mix the chopped celery, bell pepper, olives, red onion, and apple with the dressing, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Just remember to fold in the iceberg lettuce right before serving to keep it crisp. This way, you’ll savor delicious Classic Chicken Salad with minimal effort, ready to enjoy whenever hunger strikes!
Classic Chicken Salad Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make your chicken salad even more enjoyable!
- Dairy-Free: Swap mayonnaise for avocado or a vegan mayo alternative for a creamy texture without dairy.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for an exciting heat that elevates the flavor profile.
- Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like dill, basil, or parsley to introduce an aromatic touch that brightens every bite.
- Texture Boost: Include chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy contrast and added richness in your Classic Chicken Salad.
- Fruit Burst: Substitute apple with diced grapes or mango for a sweet twist that brings a refreshing note to the mix.
- Asian Flair: Replace some mayonnaise with sesame dressing and add chopped scallions and shredded carrots for an East Asian-inspired version.
- Creamy Alternative: Use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise for a tangy twist that also increases the protein content.
- Whole Grain: Serve your salad in a whole grain wrap or on a bed of quinoa for a heartier meal that’s both filling and nutritious.
How to Store and Freeze Classic Chicken Salad
Fridge: Store your Classic Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ensuring it stays fresh and flavorful.
Freezer: While freezing isn’t ideal due to texture changes, you can freeze the chicken salad for up to 1 month if necessary. Just keep in mind the lettuce will wilt when thawed.
Reheating: If you’ve used cooked chicken, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and stir well before serving. Fresh lettuce should be added after thawing for the best crunch.
Mixing Fresh Ingredients: To maintain the crunchy texture, consider adding lettuce and any fresh veggies right before serving, even after freezing.
Expert Tips for Classic Chicken Salad
Perfect Poaching: Ensure your chicken is moist by poaching it gently; let it sit in the hot water after turning off the heat.
Taste as You Go: Don’t forget to taste the dressing! Adjust the sweetness and acidity before mixing in the other ingredients for the best-finished flavor.
Veggie Variety: Feel free to mix and match veggies! Try adding diced cucumbers or shredded carrots for extra crunch in your Classic Chicken Salad.
Chill for Flavor: Allow the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld beautifully.
Serving Suggestions: Serve it with toasted bread or in lettuce wraps to create a delightful, low-carb meal that satisfies without the calorie load.
What to Serve with Classic Chicken Salad?
Transform your chicken salad into a memorable meal with these delightful pairings, perfect for any occasion.
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Crusty Baguette: A fresh baguette adds a satisfying crunch, ideal for scooping up the creamy salad or making a sandwich.
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Mixed Greens Salad: A light arugula or spinach salad with a lemon vinaigrette will elevate the meal and cleanse the palate.
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Sweet Potato Fries: The sweet and salty contrast of crispy fries balances the savory chicken salad perfectly.
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Fresh Fruit Skewers: Juicy seasonal fruits like strawberries and pineapple provide a refreshing and colorful contrast to the dish’s richness.
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Sparkling Water with Lime: A fizzy beverage enhances the freshness of the salad and makes your meal feel extra special.
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Classic Coleslaw: The tangy crunch of coleslaw complements the creamy salad, while adding an extra layer of texture and flavor.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note; soft cookies provide nostalgia and a comforting finish to your delightful experience.
With these tasty accompaniments, your classic chicken salad will shine as the star of a satisfying and vibrant meal!
Classic Chicken Salad Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for the Classic Chicken Salad?
Absolutely! For the best results, use 1 pound of raw boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into large chunks. If you’re short on time, you can opt for 2 to 3 cups of cooked chicken. Just make sure it’s juicy and flavorful!
How long can I store Classic Chicken Salad in the fridge?
You can store your Classic Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the best flavor and texture, it’s best to add any fresh ingredients, like lettuce, just before serving.
Can I freeze Classic Chicken Salad?
Very! While freezing isn’t ideal because it can affect the texture, you can freeze Classic Chicken Salad for up to 1 month. To do this, place it in a freezer-safe container. Remember, the lettuce will wilt upon thawing, so it’s best to add fresh greens when you’re ready to serve.
What should I do if the dressing is too sweet or too tangy?
No worries! If you find the dressing isn’t quite right, simply adjust it to your taste. If it’s too sweet, add more lemon juice to bring in some acidity. Conversely, if it’s too tangy, mix in a little more mayonnaise or preserves to balance the flavors. Always taste a bit as you go!
Is Classic Chicken Salad safe for my dog to eat?
Always consult with your vet! While plain chicken is safe for dogs, this classic salad includes ingredients that can be harmful to pets, such as onion and mayonnaise. If you’d like to share a bit with your furry friend, make a plain version using just cooked chicken, and double-check ingredient safety!
Deliciously Simple Classic Chicken Salad for Your Lunch Break
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a pot with 2 quarts of well-salted water to a boil. Add the chicken chunks and let the water return to a simmer. Turn off the heat and cover. Let it sit for 15 minutes to poach gently.
- In a large bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, plum preserves, and lemon juice. Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity by adding more preserves or lemon juice as needed, then season with salt and pepper.
- Add the chopped celery, red bell pepper, minced olives, red onion, and apple to the bowl with the dressing. Gently mix everything together until well coated.
- Remove the chicken from the poaching water and dice it into bite-sized pieces. Fold the chicken into the veggie mixture until everything is evenly combined.
- When you’re ready to serve, gently fold in the sliced and chopped iceberg lettuce for a fresh crunch.