Chicken Salad Recipe

Craving something fresh, flavorful, and easy to make? My classic Chicken Salad Recipe is the perfect dish—whether you’re meal prepping for the week or whipping up a quick lunch for a crowd.

It’s creamy, crunchy, and packed with sweet bursts of grape and the savory depth of seasoned chicken. This recipe is not only satisfying and wholesome, but also incredibly flexible and beginner-friendly. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to keep it on regular rotation!

Ingredients List

Main Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked chicken, chopped or shredded (see notes below on how to cook chicken)
• 1 cup red grapes, halved
• 1/2 small red onion, finely diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 1/2 cup light mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Note: You can use store-bought rotisserie chicken, poached chicken breasts, or leftover grilled chicken for this recipe. Just make sure it’s well-cooked and cooled before chopping.

Required Kitchen Tools

Making chicken salad is straightforward, but having the right tools will make preparation smoother and cleanup quicker. Here are the essentials:

1. Cutting Board & Chef’s Knife: For chopping chicken, celery, onions, and grapes precisely.
2. Mixing Bowls (Large and Small): You’ll need one large bowl for the main ingredients and a smaller one to whisk the dressing.
3. Measuring Spoons & Cups: To ensure the perfect ratio of seasonings and dressing.
4. Spatula or Wooden Spoon: Ideal for folding everything together without mashing the ingredients.

With just a few tools and simple steps, this chicken salad comes together in minutes. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a light and protein-rich meal.

Chicken Salad Preparation

Creating this easy chicken salad recipe is as simple as it gets. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just getting started in the kitchen, these steps are quick, clear, and foolproof.

Mixing the Salad Base

Start by adding the main ingredients into a large mixing bowl. That includes:

• 3 cups of cooked, chopped or shredded chicken
• 1 cup of halved red grapes
• 1/2 small red onion, diced finely
• 2 stalks of celery, chopped

Toss everything lightly to combine. This blend gives the salad its perfect balance of sweet, savory, and crunchy textures.

Making the Creamy Dressing

In a smaller bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients:

• 1/2 cup light mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Once combined, taste the dressing. Feel free to adjust the seasoning—add a pinch more salt or pepper if needed. I recommend starting light, tasting, and building the flavor gradually.

Bringing It All Together

Now pour the dressing over your chicken mixture. Using a spatula or large spoon, fold the dressing into the salad until everything is evenly coated. Don’t overmix—it’s okay for the salad to have some natural separation of ingredients for a beautiful presentation and bite.

Serving and Presentation

This chicken salad isn’t just delicious—it’s incredibly versatile. Whether you’re packing it for lunch or serving it at a summer get-together, here are my favorite ways to enjoy it.

How to Serve Chicken Salad

1. On a Sandwich: Pile it high on toasted sourdough, whole wheat, or croissants for a satisfying sandwich.
2. In Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, spoon it into crisp romaine or butter lettuce leaves.
3. With Crackers or Pita Chips: It makes a fantastic party dip or snack.
4. On a Salad Plate: Pair it with a side of greens or pasta salad for a well-rounded meal.

The combination of tender chicken, crunchy celery, and juicy grapes makes this dish a crowd-pleaser. It’s elegant enough for bridal showers and potlucks but simple enough for weekday lunches.

Suggested Add-ins & Variations

Want to mix things up? Try these tasty twists:

• Nuts: Add a handful of chopped pecans, walnuts, or slivered almonds for crunch.
• Dried Fruits: Swap grapes for dried cranberries or cherries for a tangy twist.
• Herbs: Fresh dill, parsley, or tarragon can take this salad to the next level.
• Greek Yogurt: Replace half the mayo with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier version.

You can make it your own depending on your taste and what you’ve got in the fridge. That’s the beauty of a classic chicken salad—it’s endlessly customizable!

Storage Instructions

Chicken salad is one of those recipes that gets even better after a few hours in the fridge, making it ideal for meal prep and make-ahead lunches. Here’s how to keep it fresh and safe:

How to Store Chicken Salad

• Refrigeration: Store your prepared chicken salad in an airtight container and refrigerate it immediately. It will stay fresh for 3 to 5 days.
• Serving Safety: If you’re serving this at a party or picnic, be sure not to let it sit out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. After that, it’s best to discard any leftovers to avoid food safety issues.

Can You Freeze Chicken Salad?

While technically possible, I don’t recommend freezing chicken salad. The mayonnaise and fresh produce like grapes and celery tend to break down and separate after thawing, which affects the texture and flavor. For best results, enjoy it fresh from the fridge.

Conclusion

This simple yet flavorful chicken salad recipe has become a staple in my kitchen—and I’m sure it will in yours, too. It’s creamy, crisp, sweet, and savory all in one bite. Whether you spoon it into a sandwich, wrap it in lettuce, or enjoy it straight from the bowl (no judgment!), it’s always satisfying.

With just a handful of ingredients and under 20 minutes of prep time, this chicken salad proves that easy recipes can still be full of flavor. Don’t forget to get creative with add-ins and serving ideas—it’s the kind of recipe that invites experimentation. Ready to make it? Grab your ingredients and enjoy a dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious.