Some recipes never go out of style, and chicken salad is one of them. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, making a quick lunch, or hosting a casual brunch, this creamy, crunchy, and flavorful dish is always a winner.
It’s the perfect balance of tender chicken, crisp celery, and nutty almonds, all coated in a light and tangy dressing. Best of all, it comes together in minutes with just a few simple ingredients!
Chicken salad is having a moment, and it’s easy to see why. With people looking for protein-packed, easy-to-make meals, this dish fits right in.
It’s naturally low-carb, can be served in multiple ways, and feels gourmet with minimal effort. Pair it with Chicken Stuffed Crescent Rolls for a comforting meal, or go for something heartier like Loaded Potato Meatloaf Casserole for a satisfying dinner.
One of the best things about this recipe? It’s endlessly customizable. Swap almonds for pecans, add a handful of grapes for sweetness, or spice it up with a pinch of cayenne. No matter how you make it, this classic chicken salad will always deliver.
Why This Is My Go-To Recipe?
- Fast & Effortless: This recipe is perfect when you need something delicious in a hurry—just toss everything together, and you’re good to go!
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch, and you’ve got lunch sorted for the next few days. It keeps well in the fridge, making life easier.
- So Many Ways to Serve It: Scoop it onto lettuce wraps, stuff it in a sandwich, or eat it straight from the bowl—no wrong way to enjoy it!
- Packed with Protein: A satisfying meal that keeps you full longer, thanks to lean chicken and healthy fats from almonds and mayo.
- Totally Customizable: Love a little sweetness? Add cranberries. Want more crunch? Toss in extra celery. You can make it exactly how you like it!
Chicken Salad Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Spoon or spatula (for mixing)
Ingredients
- ½ cup blanched slivered almonds
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 cups chopped cooked chicken meat
- 1 stalk celery chopped
Instructions
- Toast the almonds in a dry pan over medium heat until lightly golden, then let them cool.
- Chop the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and place them in a mixing bowl.
- Add the celery, toasted almonds, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and black pepper to the bowl.
- Mix everything well until the chicken is evenly coated with the dressing.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more lemon juice or pepper if desired.
- Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes for better flavor.
- Enjoy as a sandwich, wrap, or on a bed of greens for a refreshing meal.
Nutrition Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 779kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 8g |
| Protein | 44g |
| Fat | 63g |
| Sugar | 2g |
| Sodium | 403mg |
Smart Tips For The Best Chicken Salad!
- Shred vs. Chop: For a more tender bite, shred your chicken instead of chopping it. It helps the dressing coat every piece perfectly!
- Upgrade Your Mayo: If you want a richer taste, try using a mix of mayo and Greek yogurt. It adds creaminess with a slight tang.
- Let It Rest: If you have time, refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Balance the Crunch: If you love extra texture, try adding finely chopped apples, grapes, or even sunflower seeds for an unexpected twist.
- Go Bold with Spices: A pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne can take your chicken salad from classic to gourmet in seconds.
- Use Rotisserie Chicken Wisely: If using store-bought rotisserie chicken, go for the breast meat for a cleaner flavor, but don’t toss the darker meat—it adds richness!
- Serving Matters: Instead of the usual sandwich, try stuffing this into a hollowed-out avocado or serving it on endive leaves for a fancy yet effortless touch.
John Lee’s love for cooking is deeply rooted in family tradition. Growing up, the men in his family took charge of the kitchen, turning every meal into a special occasion. From weekend barbecues to holiday feasts, food was more than sustenance—it was a way to connect.
Inspired by this upbringing, John developed a passion for creating dishes that bring people together. After meeting Joe Miller through mutual friends, he joined Food Landscape Insight to share his love for simple yet extraordinary cooking, crafting meals that tell a story and create lasting memories.
