Name: Classic Chicken Salad Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked and chopped chicken; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1 stalk celery (diced); 1 green onion sliced; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon Stone House Seasoning; 1 teaspoon fresh dill ((optional))

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Chicken salad is a timeless dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the table. Whether served on a bed of crisp lettuce, nestled between two slices of bread, or enjoyed with crackers, this Classic Chicken Salad Recipe is versatile and perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture and delightful crunch, it’s an easy dish that can be prepared in advance, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or potlucks. Let’s dive into why this recipe will become a staple in your home.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

This Classic Chicken Salad Recipe is not only simple to prepare but also incredibly flavorful. The combination of tender chicken, creamy mayonnaise, and fresh vegetables creates a delightful balance of taste and texture. Additionally, it’s customizable—add your favorite ingredients or adjust the seasoning to suit your preferences. This dish is perfect for meal prep, ensuring you have a delicious option ready to go whenever hunger strikes.

What You’ll Need

To recreate this Classic Chicken Salad Recipe, gather the following ingredients:

2 cups cooked and chopped chicken
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 stalk celery, diced
1 green onion, sliced
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon Stone House Seasoning
1 teaspoon fresh dill (optional)

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the flavors and textures that make this chicken salad a crowd-pleaser.

Must-Have Equipment

Before you get started, make sure you have the following equipment on hand:

Mixing bowl: A large bowl for combining all the ingredients.
Cutting board: To chop your vegetables and chicken efficiently.
Sharp knife: For easy and precise cutting.
Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate measurements of ingredients.
Serving spoon: For mixing and serving the chicken salad.

Having the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

From Start to Finish: Classic Chicken Salad Recipe

Now let’s break down the preparation of this Classic Chicken Salad Recipe into easy steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

If you haven’t done so already, cook your chicken. You can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken, boil chicken breasts, or even bake them. Once cooked, allow the chicken to cool before chopping it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Gather Ingredients

In your mixing bowl, combine the chopped chicken, diced celery, and sliced green onions. These fresh ingredients will add a delightful crunch and flavor to your salad.

Step 3: Mix the Dressing

In a separate small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, Stone House Seasoning, and optional fresh dill. Stir until well combined. This creamy dressing will bring all the flavors together.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Pour the dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Use your serving spoon to gently stir and coat all the ingredients evenly. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to keep some texture.

Step 5: Taste and Adjust

Give your chicken salad a taste. Feel free to adjust the seasoning or add more lemon juice if desired. The goal is to achieve a balance that suits your palate.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

For the best flavor, cover the chicken salad and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve it on a bed of greens, in a sandwich, or alongside your favorite crackers. Enjoy!

Adaptations for Special Diets

This Classic Chicken Salad Recipe is versatile enough to adapt to various dietary needs. Consider these options:

For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, swap out the mayonnaise for avocado or a vegan mayo.
To make it gluten-free, ensure you serve it with gluten-free bread or lettuce wraps.
Add nuts or seeds for extra crunch and healthy fats if desired.

With these adaptations, everyone can enjoy this classic dish!

Insider Tips

Using leftover chicken or a rotisserie chicken can save you time and effort.
Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for more flavor and texture.
For a sweeter touch, consider adding grapes or dried cranberries.
This chicken salad tastes even better the next day, so make extra for meal prep!

These tips will elevate your chicken salad experience and encourage you to get creative.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

You can easily store your Classic Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This makes it perfect for meal prep! However, it is not recommended to freeze chicken salad, as the texture of the mayonnaise and vegetables can become unappetizing once thawed. Instead, enjoy it fresh!

Quick Questions

Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?

Yes! Canned chicken is a convenient option and can be used in place of freshly cooked chicken. Just be sure to drain it well before mixing.

How do I make my chicken salad less creamy?

If you prefer a less creamy texture, reduce the amount of mayonnaise or substitute some with Greek yogurt for added protein and tanginess.

What can I serve with chicken salad?

Chicken salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, including fresh fruit, potato chips, or a simple green salad. You can also enjoy it on its own or in a sandwich.

How long does chicken salad last in the fridge?

Chicken salad can last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container. Always check for freshness before consuming.

Quick Weeknight Wins

For those busy weeknights, here are some quick meal ideas that can complement your Classic Chicken Salad Recipe:

These recipes are perfect for busy nights when you need something delicious and satisfying in a hurry.

Wrap-Up

The Classic Chicken Salad Recipe is a delightful dish that is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying meal that your family will love. Whether you enjoy it on a sandwich, in a wrap, or straight from the bowl, this recipe is bound to become a favorite. So why not give it a try? You might just find it’s the perfect addition to your recipe rotation.

Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!