This classic, creamy Chicken Salad is loaded with grapes, celery, seeds, and lots of fresh herbs. I used to make this recipe every summer growing up so I'm happy to be finally sharing my recipe! It's incredibly quick and easy to make, and makes for a perfect lunch or dinner.
Looking for more easy recipes? Try my Tuna Salad or Ham Salad next!
About This Recipe
Chicken Salad was a staple for me growing up. There are many different ways to make it, but my favorite version is a classic creamy chicken salad, with LOTS of grapes and seeds. I think having lots of crunchy textures is what makes a great chicken salad!
There are honestly so many ways to make it. Some people add cranberries, chopped apples, almonds, or pumpkin seeds, while others switch up the dressing or herbs. You can't go wrong with it. The most common way to eat is in a sandwich, and I love it on brioche buns or buttery croissants for an extra touch of luxury.
I remember I made this recipe for my parents last summer, and they were super impressed. My mom even said to my dad "Wow, he really knows how to cook now." But in my head, I was just thinking, it's just chicken salad, lol.
There's nothing complicated with chicken salad! All you really do is combine ingredients together in a bowl and slap it between two buns. The recipe itself is very quick and easy. The secret is using a range of fresh herbs, and crunchy components, and properly seasoning it with mayo and lemon juice.
Key Ingredients
Cooked chicken breasts: For the chicken breasts, you can either chop them into cubes or shred them. I usually do cubes because the salad feels more "meaty" that way.
Mayonnaise: A good quality mayonnaise is a must. I typically use Hellman's, but one of my readers recently suggested I try Dukes, so that's on my list for next time!
Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed is a must.
Seeds (or nuts): You can use any type of seed or nut you want. I used sunflower seeds today, but typically I use pumpkin seeds or chopped almonds or walnuts.
Grapes: This is one of my favorite ingredients in chicken salad. I find myself waiting for bites with grapes in it. I added 1 cup, but feel free to add more if you like!
Celery: Celery adds a wonderful crunch to the salad.
Red onion: If you or your family don't like the taste of onion, you can omit it. Or, to mellow out the flavor, you can soak the chopped onion in cold water for 30 minutes.
Herbs: You'll need parsley, cilantro, dill.
Seasonings: Salt & pepper to taste.
Instructions
STEP 1: Chop or shred the chicken by either using a knife, or two forks or mixing on low speed in a stand mixer with the paddle attachment.
STEP 2: Add all the ingredients to a large bowl.
STEP 3: Mix until combined, then enjoy! Serve in sandwiches, with crackers, or by itself with a side of salad. The chicken salad will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
📋 Recipe
Chicken Salad
Ingredients
- 2 pounds cooked chicken breasts
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- ½ cup pumpkin seeds (or chopped almonds)
- 1 cup red grapes (quartered)
- 2 ribs celery (finely diced)
- 1 small red onion (finely diced)
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped cilantro
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh dill (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- ½-1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
- ½-1 teaspoon black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Chop or shred the chicken by either using a knife, two forks, or mixing on low speed in a stand mixer with the paddle attachment.
- In a large bowl, add the chicken and the rest of the ingredients. Toss to combine. Taste and add more salt and pepper as needed. Enjoy!
- The chicken salad can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, but it tastes the best fresh. I love to eat this between soft brioche hamburger buns.
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