Go Back

Best Ever Chicken Salad

A comforting and healthy chicken salad packed with flavor, perfect for lunchboxes, quick dinners, or festive meals.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped Rotisserie chicken makes this super quick.
  • 3/4 cup mayonnaise Preferably a good-quality one for creaminess.
  • 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt Adds tang and lightness.
  • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard Depth without overpowering.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice Brightens everything.
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest Optional, for extra lift.
  • 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped Crunch and freshness.
  • 1/3 cup red onion, very finely minced Sharpness balanced by dressing.
  • 1/2 cup seedless grapes, halved Sweet contrast (choose one).
  • 1/4 cup toasted pecans or walnuts, chopped Buttery crunch.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped Herbaceous note.
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries Optional for a festive meal twist.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. If using raw chicken breasts, poach gently in simmering water for 12–15 minutes until cooked through, then cool and shred. If using rotisserie chicken, shred about 3 cups.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth and glossy.
  3. Stir in chopped celery, minced red onion, halved grapes or diced apple, and toasted nuts.
  4. Fold the shredded chicken into the dressing mixture until everything is coated and gleaming. Taste and season with salt and black pepper.
  5. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to let flavors marry, though you can serve immediately if you are short on time.
  6. Just before serving, stir in fresh parsley and any optional dried cranberries.

Notes

For a lighter version, swap half the mayonnaise for extra Greek yogurt. Make it Mediterranean by substituting grapes with chopped cucumber and adding feta. For a twist, add curry powder and raisins.