Chicken salad is hands down one of the classic American lunch staples. I remember eating it growing up when my mom made it, my mom remembers eating it when my grandma made it. Everybody likes classic homemade chicken salad. It is just this unbeatable combination of filling protein rich cooked chicken and savory tangy mayonnaise. This recipe is the basic of all basics. Just 4 simple ingredients: cooked chicken, crunchy celery, and lemon juice with its distinctive citrusy sour taste. Just a dash of it really brings all the flavors together.
This salad recipe is so simple but so perfect so don’t let the short ingredient list fool you. It has been around for the awhile and that means it works.
But the best part is that you can jazz this salad up any way you want it. This salad is a plain canvas of flavor that you can make as simple or as exquisite as you wish. Add your favorite ingredients (nuts, veggies or other) and make this tasty salad even better. Here is some suggestions:
You can add eggs, lettuce, pickled relish and onions for a delicious southern style chicken salad. I have a recipe for it as well on this website.
For an added sweetness add fresh fruits like grapes or apples, or dried fruit like apricots, raisins or craisins.
Add almonds (walnuts or other shredded almonds) for a fragrant nutty flavor or any of your favorite nuts like pecans. They also add a wonderful crunch to every bite.
Add fresh herbs like dill, parsley, spinach or cilantro for an unbeatable freshness.
Substitute mayonnaise for a low fat greek yogurt for a healthier low on fat option.
Add spices! I love curried chicken salad, but you can also add paprika, garlic, chipotle seasoning and even cayenne pepper and jalapeños for heat lovers. Such a flavors!
This delicious healthy salad is great to make ahead. It takes minutes to make and lasts 3-4 days in the fridge. It is also extremely versatile when it comes to serving it. Top your favorite lettuce with it for a carb free option, serve wrapped in a tortilla for a quick pack- to-work lunch, spread it on your favorite bread or even croissant according to your preferences or just serve it in bowl.
Anyway you enjoy this salad it is the same delicious, nutritious and satisfying fare.
