“Love this salad… made it every week for 4 weeks straight… can’t get enough! I might just go fix myself another bowl, haha.”
If you’re looking for a chicken salad that’s creamy, crunchy, flavorful, and absolutely irresistible, this is it! This recipe has quickly become a favorite for families, meal-preppers, and anyone who enjoys a fresh, satisfying dish. It’s perfect for lunch, light dinners, picnics, or sandwiches — and it keeps beautifully in the fridge.
Let’s dive right into the magic!
⭐ Why You’ll Love This Chicken Salad
Super creamy with the perfect balance of flavors
Crunchy texture from celery, apples, and nuts
Easy to customize — add grapes, herbs, or spices
Meal-prep friendly — lasts up to 4 days in the fridge
Perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or just a bowl on its own
🥗 Ingredients
For the Chicken Salad:
3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie works great)
1 cup mayonnaise
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon lemon juice
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt & pepper to taste
2 stalks celery, finely chopped
½ cup red apple, diced (or grapes, halved)
¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
👩🍳 Instructions
- Prepare the chicken:
If you haven’t already, cook and cool your chicken. Shredded or small diced pieces work best for a creamy texture. - Make the dressing:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. - Add the mix-ins:
Stir in celery, apple (or grapes), red onion, nuts, and parsley. - Combine everything:
Add the chicken into the bowl and gently fold until everything is evenly coated. - Taste & adjust:
Add more salt, pepper, lemon juice, or mayo depending on your preference. - Chill:
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes for best flavor.
🍽️ How to Serve
This chicken salad is perfect for:
Croissant sandwiches
Tortilla wraps
Lettuce cups
On top of crackers
Or simply enjoyed by the spoonful!
🌟 Tips & Variations
Healthier version: Use half yogurt, half mayo.
Sweeter: Add grapes, cranberries, or a drizzle of honey.
Savory: Add chopped dill pickles or green onions.
Extra crunch: Add toasted almonds or sunflower seeds.
🤤 Storage
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Do not freeze — the mayo will separate.