Print

Best Ever Classic Chicken Salad Recipe

A close-up, appetizing view of creamy chicken salad mixed with celery, red onion, and whole green and red grapes.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make the best classic chicken salad using simple ingredients for a creamy, crunchy, and satisfying lunch filling. This recipe is perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
  • 1/2 cup celery, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely minced
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise (use Duke’s for authentic Southern flavor if desired)
  • 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional: 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
  • Optional: 1/2 cup seedless grapes, halved
  • Optional: 1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts, chopped

Instructions

  1. Place the shredded chicken in a large mixing bowl.
  2. Add the diced celery and minced red onion to the bowl.
  3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  4. Pour the dressing mixture over the chicken and vegetables.
  5. If using, add the chopped hard-boiled eggs, grapes, and nuts now.
  6. Gently fold all ingredients together until the chicken is evenly coated. Do not overmix; you want some texture remaining.
  7. Taste the chicken salad and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
  8. Cover the bowl and chill the chicken salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to blend.
  9. Serve as a chicken salad sandwich filling, on croissants, or over lettuce for a light lunch.

Notes

  • For a Southern style or ‘Classic Carol’ copycat flavor, use high-quality mayonnaise and include the sweet pickle relish.
  • To make this a healthier chicken salad option, substitute half of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt.
  • If you prefer a deli style texture, chop the chicken into small, uniform pieces instead of shredding.
  • This recipe is excellent for meal prep and stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cravybite.link/best-classic-chicken-salad-recipe/