Best Classic Chicken Salad

Savor the Fresh Flavors of Classic Chicken Salad

Embark on a culinary journey with this Classic Chicken Salad recipe, where tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and creamy dressing come together in perfect harmony. This timeless dish brings together simple ingredients to create a refreshing and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion.

When you're looking for versatile chicken dishes like our Best Classic Chicken Salad and Easy Taco Chicken Salad, this recipe delivers the perfect balance of creamy texture and fresh flavors in every bite.

Fresh and Creamy: Your Perfect Classic Chicken Salad

This Classic Chicken Salad stands alongside favorites like our Melt in Your Mouth Chicken and Best Smothered Chicken Breast. Not just a sandwich filling, it's a versatile dish that can be served multiple ways.

Pro Tips for Perfect Classic Chicken Salad:

1. Chicken Preparation: Use poached or roasted chicken breast for the best texture and flavor - avoid boiling which can make the meat tough.
2. Vegetable Sizing: Dice celery and other vegetables uniformly small to ensure every bite has a perfect balance of ingredients.
3. Dressing Balance: Add mayonnaise and sour cream gradually to achieve your desired creaminess without overwhelming the salad.
4. Proper Chilling: Allow the salad to rest in the refrigerator for at least an hour to let flavors meld together.
5. Fresh Finish: Add nuts and herbs just before serving to maintain their crunch and vibrant flavors.

Classic Chicken Salad Recipe:

• Preparation time: 15 minutes
• Chilling time: 1 hour
• Servings: 4-6
• Equipment: Mixing bowls, cutting board, sharp knife

Here's how you can create this versatile chicken salad that combines tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and creamy dressing in perfect harmony. This recipe delivers a classic taste that's both refreshing and satisfying.

Ingredients:

For the Salad Base:

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
• 1 cup celery, finely chopped
• ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Dressing:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Optional Add-ins:

• ¼ cup almonds, sliced
• ¼ cup red grapes, halved
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped

For Serving:

• Butter lettuce leaves
• Croissants or sandwich bread
• Fresh cracked black pepper
• Additional fresh herbs for garnish

Directions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Ensure your cooked chicken is cooled and shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces. The chicken should be neither too fine nor too chunky.
2. Mix the Base: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped celery, and diced red onion. Mix gently to distribute ingredients evenly.
3. Create the Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
4. Combine Components: Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and fold gently until all ingredients are evenly coated. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Add Optional Ingredients: If desired, fold in sliced almonds, halved grapes, and additional fresh herbs. These add wonderful texture and flavor contrast.
6. Chill and Develop Flavors: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least one hour, allowing the flavors to meld and develop.

Storage Solutions:

Store Classic Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the salad seems dry after storage, add a small amount of mayonnaise or sour cream to refresh the consistency. For best results, add any nuts or fresh herbs just before serving to maintain their texture and flavor.

Ready to Serve!

Serve this versatile Classic Chicken Salad on a bed of crisp lettuce leaves, between slices of artisan bread, or tucked into a buttery croissant. For a low-carb option, create lettuce wraps or serve atop mixed greens. The combination of tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and creamy dressing makes this a perfect choice for lunches, picnics, or light dinners.

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