As I sift through the pages of my childhood memories, one recipe never fails to bring a smile to my face: a classic chicken salad recipe. It was a dish my mother would lovingly prepare for family picnics and cosy Sunday lunches. The aroma of tender chicken, mixed with the creamy mayonnaise and crisp celery, would fill our kitchen, creating an atmosphere of warmth and togetherness.

There’s something nostalgic and comforting about homemade chicken salad. It’s more than just a recipe—it’s a connection to my past, a reminder of the simple pleasures of life, and the love and care poured into every bite.

And today, I want to share this cherished recipe with you. This classic chicken salad is easy to make, bursting with fresh flavours, and versatile enough to be enjoyed in countless ways. Whether you’re looking for a quick and healthy lunch option or something to elevate your picnic spread, this recipe is a true classic that never fails to satisfy.

So, let’s dive right into this delightful journey of preparing the perfect classic chicken salad!

Ingredients for Classic Chicken Salad

The key to a delicious classic chicken salad lies in its ingredients. For this recipe, you will need:

• 12 ounces of cooked chicken breast (from rotisserie chicken or roasted chicken)
• 1/3 cup of light mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup of chopped celery
• 1/3 cup of diced red onion
• 2 tablespoons of chicken broth (optional)
• 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
• A pinch of seasoned salt and black pepper

These ingredients are readily available at any grocery store and can be easily found. Whether you prefer rotisserie chicken or roasted chicken, both options work well in this recipe. The light mayonnaise adds creaminess without being too heavy, and the combination of celery and red onion adds a refreshing crunch and flavour to the salad. The Dijon mustard provides a subtle tang, while the seasoned salt and black pepper enhance the overall taste profile. If you prefer a slightly moist chicken salad, you can add chicken broth accordingly.

With these simple ingredients in hand, you’re ready to create a classic chicken salad that is sure to please your taste buds. Let’s move on to the next section to learn how to make this delicious recipe.

How to Make Classic Chicken Salad?

Making this classic chicken salad is straightforward. Follow these simple steps to create a delicious homemade chicken salad in no time:

1. Start by chopping the cooked chicken breast into small, bite-sized pieces. This can be done using a sharp knife and a cutting board.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped chicken with mayonnaise, celery, red onion, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of seasoned salt and black pepper. These ingredients will provide the perfect balance of flavors for your chicken salad.
3. If you find that the salad seems a bit dry, you can add some chicken broth to moisten it. This will enhance the overall texture and taste of the salad.
4. Gently mix all the ingredients together until they are fully combined. Ensure that the chicken is evenly coated with the mayonnaise and the other ingredients.
5. Your homemade chicken salad is now ready to be served. There are several creative ways to enjoy it:

• Spread it onto wraps or tortillas for a delicious and satisfying meal on the go.
• Serve it on toasted bagels or bread for a classic chicken salad sandwich.
• Wrap it in lettuce leaves for a lighter and refreshing option.
• Spoon it over a bed of fresh salad greens as a protein-packed salad topping.

Feel free to experiment with your toppings and mix-ins to create your own signature chicken salad recipe. This versatile dish can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Remember, your homemade chicken salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days, allowing you to enjoy its deliciousness throughout the week. Just make sure to keep it covered or sealed in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.

Now that you know how to make classic chicken salad, it’s time to get creative in the kitchen and whip up a batch of this crowd-pleasing dish. Let your tastebuds savor the delightful combination of flavors that this homemade chicken salad has to offer.

Nutrition Details of Classic Chicken Salad

A serving of this classic chicken salad, approximately 1/2 cup, contains approximately 131 calories. It has 2 grams of carbohydrates, 18 grams of protein, and 5 grams of fat. The salad is low in saturated fat and sugar, making it a healthy and nutritious option. The chicken provides a good source of lean protein, while the vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals. It can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

If you’re looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle or watch your calorie intake, this classic chicken salad is a great choice. With only 131 calories per serving, it offers a satisfying and filling meal without compromising your nutrition goals. The combination of lean protein from the chicken and the variety of vegetables in the salad provides a well-rounded and nutritious meal option.

With 18 grams of protein, this chicken salad is also ideal for those looking to increase their protein intake. Protein is essential for various bodily functions, including muscle repair and growth, as well as maintaining a healthy immune system. Incorporating this healthy chicken salad into your diet can help you reach your protein goals for the day.

Furthermore, this classic chicken salad is low in saturated fat and sugar. Saturated fat is known to increase the risk of heart disease, so opting for a salad that is low in saturated fat is beneficial for your cardiovascular health. By avoiding excessive sugar intake, you can also reduce the risk of developing health conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and tooth decay.

By choosing this classic chicken salad, you can enjoy a tasty and satisfying meal that aligns with your health and nutrition goals. It’s a delicious way to incorporate lean protein and essential vitamins and minerals into your diet. Remember to always listen to your body and eat in moderation, as part of a balanced and varied diet.

Variations of Classic Chicken Salad

This classic chicken salad recipe can be easily customized to suit individual preferences. Here are some variations to consider:

1. Mayo Swap: Substitute Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise or use a combination of yogurt and mayo for a lighter option.
2. Add Extra Ingredients: Some options include diced apples or grapes for sweetness and crunch, nuts like almonds or pecans, dried cranberries or cherries for a pop of sweetness, chopped pickles for a sour bite, and herbs like dill, green onions, or parsley for added flavor.
3. Curry Salad Version: Add powdered curry seasoning and chopped cilantro, and swap the mayo for yogurt to create a delicious curry chicken salad.
4. Chicken Salad Pasta: Mix the chicken salad with cooked elbow macaroni and add more mayo to make it a meal.
5. Experiment with Seasonings: Try adding everything bagel seasoning, onion powder, or garlic powder for extra flavor.

Preparation and Cooking Time for Classic Chicken Salad

The classic chicken salad recipe is not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare. With a preparation time of approximately 5 minutes, it’s the perfect option for a wholesome meal when time is limited. If using pre-cooked chicken, there’s no need for additional cooking time, which makes it even more convenient. However, if you prefer homemade chicken breast or poaching chicken, the cooking time is only about 5 minutes. After cooking, allow the chicken to cool before chopping it into small pieces for the salad.

Overall, from start to finish, the classic chicken salad recipe can be made in about 10 minutes, providing a hassle-free and tasty option for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a quick lunch, packing a picnic basket, or need an easy dinner idea, this recipe has got you covered.

Serving Suggestions for Classic Chicken Salad

There are various ways to enjoy this classic chicken salad. It can be served on whole wheat or grain-free tortillas as wraps, on bagels for a tasty sandwich, on bread like high-protein oat rolls or your favorite sandwich bread, in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option, or in collard green wraps for a healthy, low-carb alternative. It can also be enjoyed over lettuce with additional veggies like avocado, cucumber, or cherry tomatoes. The chicken salad can be paired with homemade gluten-free crackers, fruit salad, or served on gluten-free croissants or buns with melted Brie on top. The possibilities are endless!

Conclusion

In conclusion, this classic chicken salad recipe is a delicious and versatile option for a satisfying and healthy meal. Made with simple ingredients, it can be prepared in just a few minutes. Whether enjoyed as a sandwich or wrap, or served over a bed of fresh greens, this chicken salad is guaranteed to please your taste buds.

What makes this chicken salad recipe even better is that you can easily customize it to suit your preferences. Feel free to add additional ingredients like diced apples or grapes for a touch of sweetness, nuts for some crunch, or herbs for extra flavor. The possibilities are endless!

So why not whip up this delicious chicken salad for your next lunch or picnic? With its delightful flavors and easy preparation, it’s the perfect choice for a quick and satisfying meal. Enjoy this classic chicken salad recipe and treat yourself to a mouthwatering culinary experience.

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