why make this recipe
Chicken salad is a classic dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. It combines the heartiness of chicken with the sweetness of grapes and apples, making it a refreshing option for lunch or dinner. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep and can be served in various ways. Whether you enjoy it on a sandwich, in a lettuce wrap, or with crackers, this chicken salad is sure to please everyone.
how to make Chicken Salad
Ingredients
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground pepper (or to taste)
- 4 cups chicken, cooked and diced
- 1 cup seedless red grapes, cut in half or quartered
- 1 cup red apple, chopped
- 1 cup celery, chopped (about 2 stalks)
- 1 cup pecans, walnuts, or almonds, chopped or sliced
- Bread, croissants, lettuce cups, pita bread, or crackers for serving
Directions
- For the dressing, in a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- In a separate bowl, combine the cooked chicken, grapes, apple, celery, and nuts.
- Drizzle the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir together, making sure the dressing is evenly distributed.
- Cover and chill in the fridge for at least one hour before serving.
- Serve the chicken salad in sandwiches on bread or croissants, or as a meal in lettuce cups.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
how to serve Chicken Salad
Chicken salad can be served in many ways. You can make delicious sandwiches using bread or croissants. If you prefer a lighter meal, try serving it in lettuce cups. It also works well as a topping for crackers or in pita bread for a quick snack. The possibilities are endless!
how to store Chicken Salad
To keep your chicken salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for up to 3 days. Make sure to give it a good stir before serving if it has been sitting for a while, as the dressing may settle.
tips to make Chicken Salad
- Choose cooked chicken breast for a leaner option or use rotisserie chicken for a quicker fix.
- Feel free to swap out the nuts for your favorite types or leave them out if you prefer.
- Add more fruits or vegetables to enhance the salad, like diced bell peppers or dried cranberries.
variation (if any)
You can customize the chicken salad by adding different ingredients. Try including diced avocado for creaminess or using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a healthier dressing. Herbs like dill or thyme can add extra flavor, and swapping out the grapes for chopped berries can provide a new twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Yes! Leftover or rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this salad.
2. How do I make this recipe ahead of time?
Prepare the chicken salad up to a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
3. Can I freeze Chicken Salad?
It’s not recommended to freeze chicken salad, as the dressing and crunchy ingredients may not hold up well once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
Chicken Salad
Ingredients
For the Dressing
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground pepper (or to taste)
For the Salad
- 4 cups chicken, cooked and diced
- 1 cup seedless red grapes, cut in half or quartered
- 1 cup red apple, chopped
- 1 cup celery, chopped (about 2 stalks)
- 1 cup pecans, walnuts, or almonds, chopped or sliced
For Serving
- Bread, croissants, lettuce cups, pita bread, or crackers For serving options
Instructions
Preparation
- In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- In a separate bowl, combine the cooked chicken, grapes, apple, celery, and nuts.
- Drizzle the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir together, making sure the dressing is evenly distributed.
- Cover and chill in the fridge for at least one hour before serving.
Serving
- Serve the chicken salad in sandwiches on bread or croissants, or as a meal in lettuce cups.