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The Ultimate Classic Chicken Salad Recipe

A mound of creamy, shredded chicken salad mixed with diced celery, red onion, and topped with green onions.
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Make this classic chicken salad with tender chicken, crunchy celery, and creamy dressing. It is perfect for sandwiches, salads, or meal prep lunches.

Ingredients

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  • 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional: 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish

Instructions

  1. If you are not using rotisserie chicken, cook 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts until done. Let cool, then shred or dice the chicken into small pieces.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped celery, and chopped red onion.
  3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth. If using, add the sweet pickle relish to the dressing mixture.
  4. Pour the dressing mixture over the chicken and vegetable mixture.
  5. Fold all ingredients together gently until the chicken is evenly coated. Do not overmix.
  6. Cover the bowl and chill the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to combine.
  7. Serve your chicken salad on bread for sandwiches, over lettuce for a light lunch, or with crackers.

Notes

  • For a quicker preparation, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken. Shred about one standard rotisserie chicken to yield 3 cups.
  • You can prepare this recipe ahead of time; it keeps well for up to 4 days in the refrigerator, making it excellent for meal prep.
  • For a tangier flavor, increase the lemon juice slightly.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://alchemychef.com/best-chicken-salad-classic-recipe/