Chicken Salad Recipe

This chicken salad recipe is a simple, comforting meal that works for a variety of occasions. Tender, juicy chicken combines with fresh vegetables and a creamy dressing to create a dish that’s satisfying without being heavy. People love it because it’s quick to prepare, perfect for busy evenings, and can feed the whole family with minimal fuss. I often make it when I want something wholesome for lunch or a light dinner, and it comes together with ingredients most kitchens already have. Cold nights, warm sandwiches, or casual family gatherings—this salad fits seamlessly into everyday life.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This chicken salad recipe brings flavor, texture, and ease together in one bowl. It’s cozy enough for weeknight dinners yet versatile enough for sandwiches, wraps, or meal prep containers. The ingredients are budget-friendly and easy to find, making it practical for daily cooking. Leftovers keep well in the fridge, so you can save portions for later meals. It’s creamy, flavorful, and flexible—you can adjust vegetables, herbs, or seasonings to suit your taste. Pinterest users love saving this type of recipe because it’s approachable, crowd-pleasing, and works perfectly for casual or slightly special occasions alike.

Ingredients

Tip: Use cooked, shredded chicken breast for the best texture and flavor.

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
½ cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons plain yogurt
1 celery stalk, finely chopped
½ small red onion, diced
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon lemon juice
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Optional: ¼ cup diced apple or grapes for sweetness

an overhead high resolution photo of chicken salad

Instructions

Step 1: Preparation
Shred the cooked chicken and chop all vegetables finely. Measure out yogurt, mayonnaise, and seasonings. Having everything ready ensures combining ingredients is quick and smooth.

Step 2: Main Cooking Process
In a large bowl, mix mayonnaise, yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy, making a balanced dressing base.

Step 3: Combining Ingredients
Add shredded chicken, celery, onion, and optional fruit to the dressing. Fold gently to coat all ingredients evenly while keeping textures intact.

Step 4: Finishing & Final Simmer
Stir in fresh parsley for color and flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Chill in the fridge for 15–20 minutes for flavors to meld before serving.

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Days

This salad is perfect for quick meals because the chicken can be pre-cooked or leftover. Assembly takes just minutes, and it stores well for lunches or snacks later in the week. It’s a stress-free, nourishing option for Pinterest users who want a wholesome, make-ahead meal that still feels fresh and homemade.

Tips & Tricks

Use cold chicken: Cold, cooked chicken keeps the salad from becoming mushy. Warm chicken can release moisture, diluting flavor.
Dice evenly: Cut vegetables to a similar size for consistent texture. Uneven pieces can make bites too crunchy or too soft.
Adjust creaminess: Add more yogurt or mayonnaise gradually to reach your preferred consistency without overloading.
Taste before chilling: Flavors can mellow after refrigeration. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice before serving for the best result.

Variations

Meaty version: Add cooked bacon pieces or diced ham for a heartier salad. Fold in carefully to keep textures balanced. This variation is great for lunchboxes or casual family meals.

Vegetarian option: Swap chicken with chickpeas or cooked lentils for a protein-rich, vegetarian-friendly version. Add the same dressing and vegetables for a similarly creamy, flavorful salad.

Ingredient swap: Replace celery with cucumber or bell peppers for a different crunch. You can also swap yogurt for sour cream for a tangier taste.

Flavor or herb boost: Include fresh dill, chives, or tarragon for an aromatic twist. A pinch of paprika or curry powder adds subtle warmth and depth without overpowering the salad.

Serving Suggestions

Sandwich filling
Spread on whole-grain bread or croissants. Add lettuce or tomato for a complete, casual lunch option.
Salad bowl
Serve on a bed of mixed greens with extra herbs for a light dinner. Drizzle with olive oil or a squeeze of lemon.
Wraps and pita
Stuff in tortillas or pita pockets for portable meals. Include cucumber slices or shredded carrots for added crunch.
Family-style platter
Arrange in a bowl with crackers or baguette slices for a casual gathering. Perfect for shared meals and easy serving.

Storage Instructions

Fridge storage
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep vegetables crisp and salad fresh.
Reheating
Best served cold or at room temperature. Avoid heating to maintain creamy texture.
Freezing
Not recommended for freezing, as mayonnaise and yogurt can separate.
Make-ahead tips
Prepare the dressing and chop vegetables in advance. Combine with chicken shortly before serving for best texture.

Recipe Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes (using cooked chicken)
Rest Time: 15–20 minutes chilling
Total Time: 30–35 minutes

Nutrition Information (Approximate)

Each serving contains about 250–300 calories, 20–25 grams of protein, and 12–15 grams of fat depending on mayonnaise used. It provides vitamin C from celery and optional fruit, and potassium from chicken. Values are estimates and vary with portions or substitutions.

FAQs

Yes, it can be assembled and refrigerated up to 3 days.

Adding too much mayonnaise can make the salad overly heavy and lose balance.

Yes, plain Greek yogurt or sour cream works well.

Excess moisture from warm chicken or juicy vegetables can thin the dressing.

Up to 3 days in the fridge in an airtight container.

Conclusion

This chicken salad recipe is easy, flexible, and perfect for everyday meals or casual gatherings. It’s versatile enough to customize with herbs, vegetables, or small flavor twists. Whether for lunchboxes, family dinners, or a simple cold night dinner, it’s a recipe you’ll save and make again. Quick to assemble, satisfying, and fresh, this salad brings comfort, color, and taste to your table every time. For a refreshing side, try this cucumber salad recipe that pairs perfectly with any meal.