Easy Chicken Salad Recipe
Introduction
Chicken salad is one of those classic dishes that never goes out of style. It is simple, satisfying, and endlessly versatile. Whether you are trying to put together a quick lunch, a light dinner, or something to prep ahead for the week, chicken salad is a go-to that never disappoints. What makes it even more appealing is how easy it is to customize based on what you like or what you have available in your kitchen.
You can enjoy chicken salad in so many ways. Spread it between two slices of bread for a hearty sandwich, wrap it in fresh lettuce for a low-carb option, or serve it on a bed of greens for a healthy salad bowl. This recipe is ideal for busy people who want to eat well without spending hours in the kitchen. The ingredients are easy to find, the steps are simple to follow, and the flavor is fresh, creamy, and delicious.
This article will guide you through a straightforward yet flavorful chicken salad recipe. You will get a full list of ingredients with a calorie breakdown, step-by-step cooking instructions, helpful tips for customization, nutritional information, serving ideas, and a friendly conclusion that ties it all together. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or someone who enjoys easy homemade meals, this recipe is designed to make your cooking experience enjoyable and stress-free.
Ingredients Needed
The beauty of chicken salad lies in its simplicity. You only need a handful of basic ingredients to make a delicious and creamy dish. Below is a table that shows you exactly what you need along with an estimated calorie count for each ingredient. This recipe makes about four servings.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx) |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked chicken breast | 2 cups (shredded) | 330 |
| Mayonnaise | ½ cup | 720 |
| Celery (chopped) | ½ cup | 8 |
| Red onion (chopped) | ¼ cup | 15 |
| Dijon mustard | 1 tablespoon | 15 |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon | 4 |
| Salt | To taste | 0 |
| Black pepper | To taste | 0 |
Most of these items are kitchen staples. You can always swap them out depending on your taste or dietary needs. The calorie count is an estimate and may vary slightly depending on the brands you use or any modifications you make.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
This chicken salad is incredibly easy to make. You do not need any complicated techniques or special tools. Just a few basic steps and you will have a flavorful dish ready to go.
First, if you don’t have cooked chicken already, you can either boil or grill two medium chicken breasts. Make sure they are fully cooked by checking that the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Once cooked, allow them to cool slightly and then shred or chop them into small bite-sized pieces. Shredded chicken works best if you want a softer texture.
Next, prepare your vegetables. Chop the celery into small, even pieces. Do the same with the red onion. These will add a nice crunch and a bit of tangy flavor to the salad.
In a large mixing bowl, add half a cup of mayonnaise. If you prefer a lighter version, you can use part Greek yogurt instead. Add one tablespoon of Dijon mustard for a slight kick and some depth of flavor. Squeeze in a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice to brighten everything up. Add salt and black pepper to your taste.
Whisk the dressing ingredients together until smooth. Now add the shredded chicken, chopped celery, and red onion into the bowl. Mix everything together gently until the chicken is fully coated in the creamy dressing. Be sure to mix thoroughly so every bite has a balanced flavor.
Once mixed, cover the bowl and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the flavors to blend and improves the overall taste.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
One of the best things about chicken salad is how easy it is to make it your own. You can stick to the classic version or add your own twist depending on your mood, dietary needs, or what’s in your pantry.
If you are looking to make it healthier, try replacing some or all of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt. It will give you the same creamy texture with fewer calories and more protein.
You can also add fresh or dried fruits if you like a bit of sweetness. Chopped apples, grapes, or dried cranberries are all great options. If you prefer a crunch, try tossing in some nuts like walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds.
Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor too. A bit of parsley, dill, or chives will add a refreshing herbal note. If you enjoy a little spice, mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce.
This is a very forgiving recipe. You can adjust the amounts and ingredients without worrying too much. Feel free to experiment until you find your perfect version.
Nutritional Information
Here is an approximate nutritional breakdown for one serving of this chicken salad. This is based on the recipe as written and divided into four servings.
- Calories: 273
- Protein: 22 grams
- Fat: 20 grams
- Carbohydrates: 2 grams
- Fiber: 0.5 grams
- Sugar: 1 gram
- Cholesterol: 70 milligrams
- Sodium: 400 milligrams
These numbers may vary slightly depending on what ingredients and portion sizes you use. If you are following a specific diet, make sure to adjust accordingly or use a nutrition calculator for accuracy.
Serving Suggestions
There are so many tasty ways to serve chicken salad and they are all easy and fun. You can make it into a sandwich using your favorite bread. Toasted sourdough or a buttery croissant makes a delicious option.
If you want to keep it light and low in carbs, serve the salad in lettuce wraps. Romaine or butter lettuce works well for this. You can also place a scoop of chicken salad on top of a mixed greens salad for a refreshing and healthy lunch.
Another idea is to serve it with whole grain crackers or pita chips. This works great for parties or snack platters. For something more filling, wrap it up in a tortilla with sliced cucumbers and leafy greens.
No matter how you serve it, chicken salad makes a satisfying meal that fits a variety of needs and tastes.
Conclusion
This easy chicken salad recipe is the kind of dish you can count on when you need something fast, tasty, and satisfying. With simple ingredients and quick steps, it is a go-to option for anyone who wants a reliable and flexible meal. Whether you are meal prepping for the week or whipping up lunch in a hurry, chicken salad is a smart choice.
It is also fun to customize, making it perfect for different seasons, diets, and occasions. You can keep it classic or add your own twist with fruits, herbs, spices, or different dressings. Either way, you get a dish that is rich in protein, packed with flavor, and easy to enjoy.
So next time you have some cooked chicken on hand, skip the store-bought stuff and make this homemade chicken salad. It is healthier, fresher, and a whole lot more delicious. Give it a try and see just how easy it can be to enjoy real food that fits your life.