Classic Chicken Salad Guide

Classic chicken salad has been a family favorite at my house for as long as I can remember. It is the answer when I need something fast and flavorful that everyone will eat—even the picky ones. I started making this when I was out of ideas for lunch and now it is one of my regular go-tos for picnics or quick weeknight meals. The creamy dressing with crunchy celery and sweet grapes always takes me back to summer afternoons in my childhood kitchen.

I remember the first time my daughter tasted this salad she asked for second helpings and even helped me prep the next time I made it One bite and it truly became a family tradition

Ingredients

• Cooked chicken shredded or chopped: Use any leftover chicken for convenience or rotisserie for rich savory flavor Try to pick chicken that is moist and not overly seasoned for the best results
• Mayonnaise: Brings creamy consistency and binds everything together Choose a good quality full-fat mayo for rich flavor
• Celery finely chopped: Adds refreshing crunch Look for firm light green stalks for maximum flavor and snap
• Red grapes halved: Bring a pop of juicy sweetness Choose grapes that are ripe but not overly soft for the best texture
• Walnuts chopped: Add nutty flavor and crunch Use fresh walnuts that smell sweet not bitter or stale for the freshest taste
• Lemon juice: Brightens the whole salad Freshly squeezed is best as bottled varieties can be dull
• Salt and pepper: Bring out all the other flavors Taste as you season for perfect balance

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Chicken:

Start by shredding or dicing your cooked chicken Make sure it is cool and remove any skin or bones For extra flavor use a mix of white and dark meat

Chop and Toast the Crunchy Bits:

Finely chop celery and halve the grapes For extra crunch and flavor toast the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes then chop

Mix the Base:

In a large bowl combine chicken mayonnaise celery grapes and walnuts Use a spatula or big spoon to mix well You want every bite to have a little of everything

Season and Brighten:

Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and season everything generously with salt and pepper Stir well so the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly Taste and adjust seasoning

Chill for Maximum Flavor:

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and chill in the refrigerator for at least thirty minutes This step lets the flavors blend and gives the salad a cool refreshing bite

Stir and Serve:

Give your salad a final stir and serve it on bread in lettuce wraps or simply enjoy it as is A big spoonful with a side of fruit always disappears fast around here

Bookmark

My favorite part is always adding the walnuts I remember my grandmother setting a bowl of toasted nuts on the table just for this salad It became a quiet tradition she and I shared and now I do the same with my kids every time we make it

Storage Tips

Store chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator and it will keep well for up to three days For meal prep make a batch on Sunday and portion it out so you have easy lunches ready to go all week Give it a good stir before serving if it has been sitting

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version or even use half and half for balance Out of walnuts Try pecans or sliced almonds If you do not have grapes diced apples or dried cranberries are a great sweet substitute

Serving Suggestions

Pile high on thick baguette slices for a hearty lunch For something lighter spoon into crisp lettuce cups or serve over a bed of mixed greens with extra veggies on the side It also makes a great filling for a croissant At summer gatherings I love putting out a platter with different breads and greens so everyone can build their own

Bookmark

Cultural and Family Connections

Chicken salad became popular in American delis in the early twentieth century as a way to use up leftover roast chicken Over time it became a lunchtime classic in households everywhere My version takes cues from the way my family liked to add something crunchy and something sweet so every bite feels comforting and just a little celebratory

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use rotisserie or canned chicken?

Yes! Rotisserie or canned chicken work well—just shred or chop it for best texture and flavor.

→ How long does chicken salad stay fresh?

It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days if stored in an airtight container.

→ Are there alternatives to mayonnaise?

Try Greek yogurt or mashed avocado to lighten the dressing while keeping it creamy and satisfying.

→ How can I add extra crunch or flavor?

Lightly toast the nuts, add diced apples or dried cranberries, or mix in fresh herbs like parsley or dill.

→ What are some serving suggestions?

Serve on crusty bread, flaky croissants, inside lettuce wraps, or with a side of seasonal fruit for a balanced plate.

→ Is it gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you serve it with gluten-free bread or wraps, or enjoy it on lettuce leaves.