If you’re seeking a meal that’s both comforting and endlessly versatile, look no further than Classic Chicken Salad. Tender chicken is married with crunchy celery, zesty red onion, a creamy dressing, and a touch of lemon, all coming together to create a dish that’s as much at home at a picnic as it is on a lunchtime table. Whether you want to pile it into a sandwich, cradle it in lettuce leaves, or enjoy it by the forkful, Classic Chicken Salad delivers crowd-pleasing flavors every time.

Classic Chicken Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Classic Chicken Salad lies in its simplicity and the way each component elevates the others. Every ingredient serves its own purpose, whether adding texture, flavor, or creaminess—so don’t be tempted to skip the essentials!

Cooked chicken (4 cups, shredded or diced): The star of the show, use leftover rotisserie or freshly poached chicken for the best texture and flavor.
Mayonnaise (1 cup): A creamy base holds it all together—use good-quality mayo for that rich, classic taste.
Celery (½ cup, diced): Brings crispness and a pop of fresh, green flavor—finely dice to make sure every bite has crunch.
Red onion or shallots (⅓ cup, diced tiny): Adds color and a gentle sharpness, making sure the salad never feels dull.
Green onions or chives (2 tablespoons, sliced): These bring a mild bite and a touch of herby brightness.
Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon): For a subtle tang and depth that keeps the Classic Chicken Salad from being flat.
Lemon juice (2 teaspoons): Brightens all the flavors and prevents the salad from feeling too heavy.
Kosher salt (½ teaspoon): Essential for bringing all the flavors into balance—taste and adjust if you like.
Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): A pinch of pepper grounds the salad and lends gentle warmth.

How to Make Classic Chicken Salad

Step 1: Gather and Prep Ingredients

First things first—get all your ingredients measured out and ready to go. Dice the celery and red onion or shallots finely, slice those green onions or chives, and shred or cube your cooked chicken. Having everything prepped makes mixing a breeze and ensures the Classic Chicken Salad comes together smoothly.

Step 2: Mix the Salad Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded or chopped chicken, diced celery, red onion, and green onions. Give them a gentle toss to distribute the vegetables evenly among the chicken. This step ensures that every forkful of Classic Chicken Salad gets a bit of everything.

Step 3: Add the Dressings and Flavors

Spoon in the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, kosher salt, and black pepper. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, fold the mixture together until everything is well coated with that luscious dressing. Be sure to mix gently so the chicken holds its texture and the salad stays light and fluffy.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust

Once the salad is fully mixed, give it a quick taste. This is where you can adjust the salt and pepper, or even add a little more lemon juice if you prefer a brighter flavor. Don’t be afraid to personalize your Classic Chicken Salad at this stage—sometimes an extra pinch of salt or another squeeze of lemon is all it takes.

Step 5: Chill or Serve

You can serve your Classic Chicken Salad right away, but letting it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes really allows the flavors to meld. Cover the bowl or spoon the salad into a lidded container, then refrigerate until you’re ready to dish it up.

How to Serve Classic Chicken Salad

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes can really elevate Classic Chicken Salad, whether you sprinkle on extra chopped chives, a few grinds of black pepper, or a scattering of crisp lettuce leaves for added crunch. Sometimes, a handful of chopped fresh herbs—think parsley or dill—brings welcome brightness and color.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs beautifully with so many sides. Try it with buttery crackers, a crisp green salad, or a bowl of chilled fruit for a light lunch. For heartier fare, a side of potato chips or a classic pasta salad creates the ideal picnic spread alongside your Classic Chicken Salad.

Creative Ways to Present

Classic Chicken Salad is endlessly adaptable. Try mounding it onto croissants or tucked inside pita bread for sandwiches, or pile hearty scoops onto avocado halves or thick tomato slices for a modern, gluten-free twist. It also makes a smart appetizer when served in cucumber cups or as a topping for mini toast rounds.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Classic Chicken Salad is best transferred to an airtight container and kept refrigerated. It stays fresh and delicious for up to 3 days—just remember to give it a gentle stir before serving, as some separation can occur as it chills.

Freezing

Technically, you can freeze Classic Chicken Salad, but the dressing may separate and the texture of the vegetables can suffer once thawed. If you need to freeze it, consider freezing the chicken mixture alone, then combining with mayo, veggies, and seasonings fresh when ready to serve.

Reheating

Classic Chicken Salad is meant to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary. If you’ve just taken it from the fridge, let it sit out for a few minutes to take the chill off before serving for best flavor and consistency.

FAQs

What type of chicken works best for Classic Chicken Salad?

Both shredded and diced cooked chicken are wonderful—you can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or poach boneless breasts or thighs for a homemade touch. Try to avoid heavily seasoned or smoked options so the clean flavors of the salad shine through.

Can I make Classic Chicken Salad without mayonnaise?

Absolutely! Try swapping in Greek yogurt or a combination of yogurt and sour cream for a lighter version. You might also like a touch of olive oil whisked with lemon juice for a fresh, dairy-free alternative.

How long does Classic Chicken Salad last in the fridge?

Properly stored, Classic Chicken Salad keeps well for about 3 days in the refrigerator. Always check for freshness before serving—look for off smells or a watery consistency as signs it’s time to say goodbye.

What can I add for extra flavor?

Feel free to stir in extras like halved grapes, diced apples, toasted nuts, or dried cranberries if you like a little sweetness or crunch. A pinch of smoked paprika or a splash of hot sauce can offer a little zip, too.

Is Classic Chicken Salad gluten-free?

Yes, the salad itself is naturally gluten-free. Just be mindful of what you serve it with—skip the bread or crackers if you’re serving someone with gluten sensitivities and choose lettuce wraps or gluten-free options instead.

Final Thoughts

Classic Chicken Salad is truly a blank canvas for weeknight meals, lunches, and gatherings alike—comforting, endlessly customizable, and so easy to love. I hope you’ll make it your own and enjoy sharing it as much as I do, bite after bite!