Best Ever Chicken Salad

why make this recipe

This chicken salad is quick, creamy, and fresh. It uses simple ingredients you can find in any kitchen. It works for lunch, picnic, or a light dinner. The salad tastes good cold and holds its flavor well.

introduction

This Best Ever Chicken Salad is easy to make and full of crunch from celery and bell peppers. You can make it in 10 minutes if the chicken is already cooked. For a different sweet crunch, try an apple pecan chicken salad as another quick option.

how to make Best Ever Chicken Salad

1. Prepare all ingredients: shred or dice the cooked chicken, chop the celery, red onion, and bell peppers.
2. Make the dressing in a small bowl by mixing mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken and vegetables to a large bowl. Pour the dressing over them.
4. Stir until the chicken and vegetables are well coated.
5. Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed.
6. Serve right away, or cover and chill in the fridge for later.

Ingredients :

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1/2 cup red onion, diced
• 1 cup bell peppers, diced
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped herbs (parsley or dill) for garnish

Directions :

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, celery, red onion, and bell peppers.
2. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until everything is well-coated.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later use. Enjoy your creamy chicken salad!

how to serve Best Ever Chicken Salad

Serve it on fresh bread, in a croissant, or over a bed of lettuce. It is also good in a wrap or stuffed inside a pita. Add a slice of tomato or avocado for extra flavor.

how to store Best Ever Chicken Salad

Put the salad in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir before serving. Do not freeze the salad because mayonnaise and vegetables will change texture.

tips to make Best Ever Chicken Salad

• Use cold cooked chicken for best texture.
• Dice vegetables small so every bite has a mix of flavors.
• Chill the salad for 30 minutes to let flavors blend.
• Taste the dressing before mixing and adjust lemon, salt, or mustard as you like.

variation (if any)

• Add grapes or apple for sweetness.
• Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch.
• Use Greek yogurt instead of some or all mayonnaise for a lighter version.
• Add curry powder for a curried chicken salad twist.

FAQs

Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken?
A: Yes. Rotisserie chicken works great and saves time.

Q: How long does the salad keep in the fridge?
A: Keep it in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I make this ahead for a party?
A: Yes. Make it a few hours ahead and keep it chilled until serving.

Q: Is it safe to leave the salad out at a picnic?
A: Do not leave it out more than 2 hours. Keep it on ice if it will be warm outside.

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