How To Make Chicken Salad Recipe

Chicken salad is one of those rare dishes that strikes the perfect balance between health, comfort, and flavor. It's light yet satisfying, quick to prepare, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re meal prepping for a busy week, hosting a summer lunch, or just craving something clean but hearty — chicken salad has you covered.

But where did this popular dish come from? While cold poultry dishes have existed for centuries, the American-style chicken salad — a creamy blend of chopped chicken, mayo, and crunchy vegetables — is believed to have originated in the 1800s. It’s stood the test of time thanks to its versatility. You can go classic, Mediterranean, spicy, sweet — you name it. It fits seamlessly into low-carb, keto, paleo, and gluten-free diets depending on how you prepare it.

Let’s explore the most balanced and flavor-packed chicken salad recipe — one that’s easy to follow, rich in nutrients, and ready to become a staple in your home.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

Main Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups (350g) cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped

• 1/2 cup (120g) Greek yogurt (or 1/4 cup mayo + 1/4 cup Greek yogurt)

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh Add-ins:

• 1/2 cup (60g) celery, finely chopped

• 1/4 cup (30g) red onion, finely chopped

• 1/4 cup (30g) fresh parsley or dill, chopped

• 1/3 cup (45g) grapes or dried cranberries (optional for sweetness)

• 1/4 cup (30g) chopped walnuts or almonds (optional crunch)

For Serving:

• Lettuce leaves, whole grain toast, pita, or low-carb wraps

• Optional toppings: avocado slices, cherry tomatoes, cucumber ribbons

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

If you’re starting with raw chicken, season it with a pinch of salt and pepper and either boil, bake, or poach it until cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C). Let it cool before shredding or chopping into bite-sized pieces.

Pro Tip: Poaching chicken in a broth with bay leaf, garlic, and onion adds tons of subtle flavor to your salad.

Step 2: Mix the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This tangy and creamy dressing is lighter than mayo-only versions but still super flavorful.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the chicken, celery, red onion, parsley (or dill), grapes/cranberries, and nuts into the bowl with the dressing. Mix until everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust

Taste your salad and adjust seasoning as needed. Want more tang? Add more vinegar or lemon. Need richness? A little extra mayo or olive oil goes a long way.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

For best flavor, refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Serve chilled on lettuce, toast, or in a wrap.

Nutritional Highlights & Health Benefits

Chicken Breast: Lean and packed with protein, it helps with muscle building and keeps you full. Also contains B vitamins and selenium.

Greek Yogurt: A healthier alternative to mayonnaise, full of probiotics for gut health, calcium for bones, and protein. It's also lower in fat and calories than sour cream or mayo.

Celery: Low-calorie crunch that aids in digestion, hydrates the body (over 95% water), and is high in antioxidants.

Red Onion: Contains quercetin, a powerful anti-inflammatory compound, and sulfur compounds that may support heart health.

Parsley/Dill: Fresh herbs boost antioxidants, support kidney function, and add brightness without calories.

Grapes/Cranberries: Bring natural sweetness and contain resveratrol or antioxidants for heart health. Dried fruit also provides fiber, but should be used in moderation due to sugar content.

Walnuts/Almonds: Provide omega-3s, healthy fats, and fiber for satiety. Also excellent for brain health and reducing inflammation.

Apple Cider Vinegar: Known to support blood sugar control, digestion, and may aid weight management.

Dijon Mustard: Low in calories, adds spice and tang, and contains selenium and magnesium.

Extra Tips for Success

• Use rotisserie chicken for a shortcut and added flavor.

• Add chopped pickles or capers for extra tang.

• Swap yogurt for mashed avocado if you're dairy-free.

• Try different herbs like tarragon, basil, or cilantro for flavor variation.

• Make it spicy with cayenne, sriracha, or chopped jalapeños.

• Add crunch with chopped apples, cucumbers, or shredded carrots.

• Make a big batch: This salad stores well for meal prep, picnics, or weekday lunches.

Serving & Storage Ideas

• Serve in a lettuce wrap for a low-carb, keto-friendly meal.

• Top whole grain toast or sourdough for an open-faced sandwich.

• Fill a whole wheat pita or tortilla wrap for easy grab-and-go meals.

• Scoop onto a bed of mixed greens and add cherry tomatoes, avocado, and boiled eggs for a complete salad bowl.

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

• Avoid freezing — dairy-based dressings may separate and alter the texture.

Variations to Try

• Mediterranean Chicken Salad: Add kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, chopped cucumbers, and feta cheese. Use lemon juice and olive oil in the dressing.

• Spicy Southwest Style: Mix in corn, black beans, diced red pepper, cilantro, and a chipotle-lime dressing.

• Asian-Inspired: Use shredded cabbage, sesame oil, grated ginger, and a splash of soy sauce or rice vinegar. Garnish with sesame seeds.

• Tropical Chicken Salad: Swap grapes for pineapple or mango, and add a squeeze of lime and a dash of chili flakes.

• Egg & Chicken Combo: Add diced hard-boiled eggs for extra protein and creaminess.

• Vegan Version: Use chickpeas or jackfruit in place of chicken, and plant-based yogurt or tahini for the dressing.

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Final Thoughts

Chicken salad is that rare kind of recipe: endlessly customizable, packed with nutrition, and simple enough for beginners. Whether you want a meal that fuels your fitness journey, something fresh for lunch, or a dish that impresses guests — this recipe checks all the boxes.

With endless variations and ways to serve it, chicken salad isn’t just a dish — it’s a flexible canvas for flavor, texture, and wellness. It can be creamy or zesty, nutty or fruity, hearty or light. It adapts to your mood, your fridge, and your needs.

So, try it out. Adjust it to your taste. Share it. Remix it. Make it yours. Because once you find your version of the perfect chicken salad, you'll come back to it again and again.

Enjoy every crunchy, creamy, refreshing bite!

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