Name: Best Classic Chicken Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked chicken breast (chopped or shredded); 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream; 1/3 cup celery (finely chopped); 1/4 cup red onion (finely diced); 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 2 teaspoons lemon juice; Salt and black pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

When you crave a lunch that’s comforting, satisfying, and never goes out of style, the Best Classic Chicken Salad always rises to the occasion. This recipe delivers creamy, savory morsels of chicken, bright, fresh crunch, and a gentle tang—making it a staple for picnics, potlucks, and quick weekday meals alike. With easy-to-find ingredients and just minutes of hands-on time, it’s a recipe you’ll make over and over again. Whether served piled high on buttery croissants, crisp lettuce leaves, or your favorite crackers, this chicken salad truly earns its title as the Best Classic Chicken Salad.

Best Classic Chicken Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of the Best Classic Chicken Salad starts with simple, quality ingredients that each play a starring role. From the tender chicken to the vibrant parsley, every item builds flavor and layers of texture, creating a salad that’s truly crave-worthy.

Cooked chicken breast (3 cups, chopped or shredded): Use roasted, poached, or rotisserie chicken—whatever you have on hand—for the juiciest, most flavorful bite.
Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): The creamy backbone of the salad, mayo brings all the flavors together in perfect, velvety harmony.
Plain Greek yogurt or sour cream (1/4 cup): Adds a subtle tang and lightness that keeps every forkful refreshing.
Celery (1/3 cup, finely chopped): Crisp and fresh, celery provides that classic crunch you expect in the very best chicken salad.
Red onion (1/4 cup, finely diced): A pop of color and just enough bite to balance the creaminess.
Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon): Elevates the dressing with gentle heat and depth—don’t skip this secret ingredient!
Lemon juice (2 teaspoons): Brightens everything up and keeps the flavors lively, never flat.
Salt and black pepper (to taste): A good pinch of both makes all the other flavors shine.
Chopped fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, optional): For a fresh finish and a burst of herbal color.

How to Make Best Classic Chicken Salad

Step 1: Mix the Creamy Base

Begin by grabbing a large mixing bowl—this gives you plenty of room to stir without making a mess. Add the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt or sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and a generous sprinkle each of salt and black pepper. This is your creamy, flavorful foundation. Stir until completely blended and smooth, making sure every ingredient is fully incorporated for the ultimate Best Classic Chicken Salad dressing.

Step 2: Add the Crunchy and Fresh Ingredients

Once your dressing is ready, gently fold in the chopped chicken, finely diced celery, red onion, and parsley if you’re using it. Use a spatula or large spoon, and take your time to evenly coat everything without breaking up the chicken too much—those hearty pieces are what make this salad so satisfying.

Step 3: Taste and Adjust

Here’s your moment for a final flavor check! Taste a small bite and adjust the seasoning as you like—a little more salt, an extra squeeze of lemon, or an extra turn of cracked pepper. This simple taste-test ensures your Best Classic Chicken Salad lives up to its legendary name.

Step 4: Chill and Allow Flavors to Meld

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. While it chills, the flavors blend and the texture sets, giving you a salad that’s cool, cohesive, and even tastier after its little “rest.”

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

When it’s time to eat, give the salad a gentle stir, then serve it up however you please! Whether spooned onto greens, tucked into a sandwich, or scooped up with crackers, every bite promises creamy, bright, and endlessly delicious chicken salad perfection.

How to Serve Best Classic Chicken Salad

Garnishes

A sprinkle of extra parsley brings a pop of color and freshness, while fresh cracked black pepper amps up the aroma right before serving. For something a little extra, add a handful of toasted chopped nuts or a few halved grapes right on top for visual appeal and a little unexpected burst of flavor.

Side Dishes

Pair the Best Classic Chicken Salad with a buttery croissant, a crusty baguette, or some seedy crackers for a more substantial meal. For a lighter spread, a crisp green salad, a slice of juicy melon, or roasted sweet potatoes make wonderful companions, balancing creaminess with just the right touch of freshness and color.

Creative Ways to Present

Let your creativity shine! Stuff this salad into halved avocados for a brunch-ready showstopper, or pile it high on cucumber rounds for a pretty, bite-sized appetizer. Lettuce wraps keep things low-carb and picnic-perfect, while classic sandwiches never go out of style—especially when stacked with crunchy lettuce and juicy tomato slices.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Best Classic Chicken Salad is wonderful for meal prep. Simply spoon any leftovers into an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. The salad will stay fresh and appealing for up to three days, making lunchtime a breeze all week long.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for chicken salad since the creamy base can separate and the vegetables lose their crispness once thawed. For best results, enjoy this dish within a few days of making it. If you need to prep in advance, prep the dressing and chicken separately, then combine fresh for the ultimate texture.

Reheating

Chicken salad is meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t needed. If you’ve just taken it out of the fridge, let it sit for about 5–10 minutes to take the chill off before serving—the flavors will shine even more at a slightly cool temperature.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken in the Best Classic Chicken Salad?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken makes this recipe even easier and adds a delicious depth of flavor. Just shred or chop the meat and proceed as directed—it’s a perfect shortcut for busy days.

What can I use instead of mayonnaise?

If you prefer a lighter dressing, you can substitute part or all of the mayonnaise with more Greek yogurt or even mashed avocado. The texture and taste will change slightly, but the salad will still be creamy and full of flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the Best Classic Chicken Salad is naturally gluten-free. Just be mindful of what you serve it with—choose gluten-free bread, wraps, or crackers if needed.

Can I add fruit or nuts to this chicken salad?

Definitely! Sweet grapes, chopped apples, or crunchy toasted nuts all pair beautifully with the classic creamy base. Stir in your favorites right before serving for a twist on the traditional.

How far ahead can I make the Best Classic Chicken Salad?

This chicken salad is at its peak within the first 1–2 days but can be made up to three days ahead. Just store it covered in the fridge, and give it a good stir before serving.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason the Best Classic Chicken Salad is such an enduring favorite—it’s quick, endlessly adaptable, and always delicious. Give this recipe a try and watch it become your go-to for everything from picnics to packed lunches. I hope you’ll adore it as much as I do!

Best Classic Chicken Salad Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 7 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 15 minutes (plus chilling)
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Best Classic Chicken Salad recipe is a timeless favorite that’s perfect for a quick and delicious meal. Tender cooked chicken combined with a creamy dressing and crunchy vegetables, this salad is versatile and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients:

3 cups cooked chicken breast (chopped or shredded)
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
1/3 cup celery (finely chopped)
1/4 cup red onion (finely diced)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 teaspoons lemon juice
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Add the chopped chicken, celery, red onion, and parsley if using. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.
Serve chilled on sandwiches, lettuce wraps, crackers, or over a bed of greens.