Easy Chicken Salad Recipe – A Quick and Delicious Meal

Chicken salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that works for lunch, dinner, or even a snack. It’s a great way to use up leftover chicken and can be served in many ways—on a sandwich, in a lettuce wrap, or with crackers. I love making a batch at the beginning of the week so I always have something quick and tasty on hand.

This easy chicken salad recipe comes together in just minutes. With tender cooked chicken, crunchy celery, hard-boiled eggs, and a creamy dressing, every bite is packed with flavor. It’s also easy to customize with mix-ins like grapes, nuts, or a sprinkle of extra seasoning. I’ve tried different versions over the years, but this one remains a favorite because it’s simple and satisfying.

What is Chicken Salad?

Chicken salad is a cold, creamy dish made by mixing diced chicken with mayonnaise and a variety of flavorful ingredients. Some versions include crunchy celery, onions, hard-boiled eggs, and seasonings. The result is a deliciously creamy and slightly tangy mixture that can be enjoyed in so many ways.

This dish dates back to the early 1800s when people started combining leftover chicken with rich dressings. Over time, different regions developed their own variations, some using mustard, pickles, or even fruit like grapes and apples. In American kitchens, chicken salad became a staple, especially for lunches and potlucks.

One of my favorite things about chicken salad is that it pairs well with almost anything. You can serve it on a toasted sandwich, stuff it into a buttery croissant, or spoon it over fresh greens for a low-carb option. It also tastes amazing when paired with crackers or pita chips.

You might like these recipes:

• Chicken Macaroni Salad Recipe
• Mexican Ham Macaroni Salad

Ingredients to Make Easy Chicken Salad

Each ingredient in this recipe plays an important role in adding flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

Cooked chicken – The main ingredient. You can use rotisserie chicken, boiled chicken breast, or even leftover grilled chicken. White meat works best because it stays firm and absorbs the dressing well.

Celery – Adds a crisp texture that balances out the creaminess of the mayonnaise. Finely chopping it ensures you get a little crunch in every bite.

Hard-boiled egg – Makes the salad richer and more filling. The egg also adds a smooth texture and subtle flavor that blends well with the chicken.

Relish – A touch of sweetness and tanginess that enhances the overall taste. You can use sweet relish or dill relish, depending on your preference.

Mayonnaise – The base of the dressing. It makes everything creamy and binds the ingredients together. If you want a lighter version, Greek yogurt is a great substitute.

Greek seasoning – A flavorful blend of herbs and spices that gives the salad a delicious, savory taste.

How to Make Easy Chicken Salad for Sandwiches

Making chicken salad is simple, even if you’ve never made it before. Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time.

1. Dice the chicken into small pieces. The smaller the pieces, the better they’ll mix with the dressing. If the chicken is too large, it can make the salad harder to spread on bread or crackers.
2. Chop the hard-boiled egg. You can make the pieces as big or small as you like, but smaller pieces blend more evenly into the salad.
3. Prepare the celery. Finely chop the celery so that it adds crunch without overpowering the texture.
4. Combine all the ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, add the diced chicken, chopped egg, celery, relish, mayonnaise, and Greek seasoning.
5. Mix well. Use a spoon or spatula to stir everything together until the dressing is evenly distributed. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
6. Chill before serving. Let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes so the flavors can blend.
7. Serve and enjoy! Spoon the chicken salad onto a sandwich, stuff it into a croissant, or enjoy it with crackers.

Tips for Making the Best Chicken Salad

• Use rotisserie chicken for extra flavor and to save time.
• Let the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. The flavors taste even better after they’ve had time to mix.
• Swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt if you want a lighter version with extra protein.
• Add grapes, apples, or nuts for a bit of sweetness and texture.
• Try mixing in a dash of mustard or hot sauce for extra flavor.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does chicken salad last in the refrigerator?

When stored in an airtight container, chicken salad stays fresh for up to three days. Be sure to keep it refrigerated at all times to prevent spoilage.

Can I make chicken salad without mayonnaise?

Yes! If you don’t like mayonnaise or want a healthier option, you can use Greek yogurt, sour cream, or even mashed avocado. These alternatives will still give you a creamy texture while adding their own unique flavors.

What can I serve with chicken salad?

Chicken salad goes well with so many things! You can enjoy it on sandwiches, croissants, or wraps. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, serve it in lettuce cups or over a fresh green salad. It also pairs well with crackers, pita chips, or even sliced cucumbers.

Can I freeze chicken salad?

It’s not recommended to freeze chicken salad because mayonnaise doesn’t hold up well in the freezer. Freezing can cause the dressing to separate and change the texture of the salad. If you want to prep ahead, you can freeze the cooked chicken separately and mix the salad fresh when you’re ready to eat it.

What’s the best bread for a chicken salad sandwich?

Soft breads like croissants, brioche, or classic sandwich bread work best because they complement the creamy texture of the salad. If you like a little crunch, toasted sourdough or a baguette also make great choices.

How can I make chicken salad more flavorful?

If you want to enhance the taste, try adding fresh herbs like parsley or dill, a squeeze of lemon juice, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika. A little bit of mustard or hot sauce can also add an extra kick of flavor.

Have you tried making chicken salad before? I’d love to hear how it turned out! If you make this recipe, let me know in the comments and share your favorite add-ins. Your feedback helps others who are trying it for the first time!