Description
This easy and healthy chicken salad recipe combines tender cooked chicken breast with a creamy dressing made from mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and fresh lemon juice. Enhanced with crunchy celery, red onion, and optional nuts, it’s a versatile dish perfect for sandwiches, salads, or snacks. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s a nutritious, gluten-free option ideal for lunch, picnics, or quick meals.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Salad Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds or chopped pecans (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing: In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, plain Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well blended, forming the creamy base for the salad.
- Add the main ingredients: To the dressing, add the shredded or chopped cooked chicken breast, finely chopped celery, diced red onion, and the optional sliced almonds or chopped pecans. This combination will add texture and flavor diversity to the salad.
- Season and mix: Season the mixture with salt and pepper to your taste preferences. Mix all the ingredients carefully until they are evenly coated with the dressing, ensuring each bite is flavorful.
- Fold in parsley: Gently fold in the chopped fresh parsley to incorporate a fresh, herbal note into the salad without breaking the texture.
- Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully and enhances the taste.
- Serve: Serve the chicken salad chilled on a bed of lettuce, as a sandwich filling, or accompanied by crackers for a delightful meal or snack option.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and adds flavor.
- You can use all mayonnaise instead of Greek yogurt if preferred for a richer, creamier texture.
- Add sweet elements like grapes or dried cranberries for a fruity twist.
