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Craving a quick lunch that’s tasty and healthy? This easy chicken salad recipe is perfect for you. Make it in just 15 minutes for a meal that keeps you going all day.
This quick lunch recipe is super versatile. You can put it in a sandwich, wrap it, or eat it on greens. It’s also dairy-free, gluten-free, and full of protein. Great for busy days, this simple chicken salad will be your new favorite.
5 Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe
This chicken salad recipe is perfect for a quick meal. It fits well into your busy life. Here are five reasons why you’ll love it:
- Time-saver: Whip up this flavorful dish in just 15 minutes.
- Healthy twist: Use light mayo and Greek yogurt for a nutritious spin on the classic.
- Flavor-packed: Dijon mustard and seasoned salt create a taste sensation.
- Customizable: Add your favorite ingredients to make it uniquely yours.
- Meal prep friendly: Stays fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days.
This recipe is simple and easy to make. You can have it as a sandwich, wrap, or on greens. It’s great for lunch, dinner, or as a party appetizer. The mix of light and creamy with tender chicken makes it a satisfying meal.
It’s also good for health lovers. Using Greek yogurt adds protein and cuts calories. You can serve it to your family or at a potluck without worry.
This chicken salad is great for busy weeks. Make it on Sunday and have lunches ready. It’s flexible and easy for meal planning.
Exact Ingredients List (+ Possible Substitutes)
Get ready to make a tasty chicken salad with these easy ingredients. You’ll need 12 ounces of finely chopped chicken breast. Also, grab 1/3 cup of light mayonnaise and 1/2 cup of chopped celery for crunch.
Add 1/3 cup of diced red onion for a zesty kick. And don’t forget 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard for extra flavor.
Season your salad with 1/2 teaspoon of seasoned salt and black pepper to taste. For a juicier mix, try adding 2 tablespoons of chicken broth. Don’t have all these items? No worries! You can easily swap some ingredients:
- Use rotisserie chicken instead of cooked chicken breast to save time
- Replace red onion with scallions or chives for a milder onion flavor
- Swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt or use a blend of both for a healthier twist
Feel free to adjust the amounts to suit your taste. This recipe is flexible, so you can make it your own. Remember, the key to a great chicken salad is fresh ingredients and the right balance of flavors.
Instructions
Are you ready to make your chicken salad? Let’s start! First, collect all your ingredients in a medium bowl. This is where the magic begins.
Add your chopped chicken, celery, onion, and other mix-ins you like. Now, it’s time to mix well. Use a large spoon or spatula to gently mix everything together.
Next, season to taste. Start with a pinch of salt and pepper. Then, adjust as needed. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away.
Once you’re happy with the flavor, it’s time to serve. You have options:
- Scoop it onto a bed of fresh greens for a light lunch
- Spread it between two slices of your favorite bread for a classic sandwich
- Wrap it up in a tortilla with some crisp lettuce for a handheld meal
If you’re using freshly cooked chicken, let it cool completely before mixing. For the best flavor, chill your salad for an hour before serving. This lets all the tastes blend perfectly.
Tips, Tricks & Storing
Learning how to store chicken salad is important. Put it in an airtight container in the fridge. This keeps it fresh for up to five days. Before you eat it, mix it well to blend the flavors.
Keeping the salad moist is important. If it’s dry, add some chicken broth or Greek yogurt. These add creaminess without more mayo.
For those who like to prep meals, here’s a tip: freeze the chicken before making the salad. Thaw it and mix it with fresh stuff when you’re ready. This way, you get a great taste every time.
- Store in airtight container
- Refrigerate for up to 5 days
- Stir before serving
- Add broth or yogurt for moisture
Freezing chicken is okay, but not the salad with mayo and veggies. The texture changes, making it less tasty. Stick to keeping it in the fridge for best results.
“The secret to a great chicken salad is in the storage. Keep it cool, keep it moist, and it’ll keep you happy!”
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
Add some fun to your chicken salad with tasty mix-ins! Try adding diced apples or grapes for a sweet touch. Nuts like almonds or walnuts make it extra crunchy. For a zing, toss in chopped pickles or dried cranberries.
Want a new taste? Add curry powder for an Indian twist. Try everything bagel seasoning for a savory flavor. A little onion or garlic powder can also make it more exciting. These easy changes make the classic recipe new again.
Be creative with how you serve it! Put your chicken salad on a toasted bagel for a big breakfast. Or, use lettuce wraps for a lighter choice. Mix it with elbow macaroni for a fun pasta salad. Or, go low-carb by serving it over a green salad with avocado, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes. These ideas make your chicken salad great for any time of day.