The Best Chicken Salad
This chicken salad holds a special place in my heart—it’s one of those comforting, old-time favorites I learned to make years ago. It’s a nostalgic nod to my early cooking days, but the recipe I’m sharing today isn’t my original one. This is my husband’s take on the classic dish, and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer. He’s fine-tuned the recipe over time, making it a cherished family favorite that’s always a hit at our table. Imagine a lunch that hits all the right notes of flavor and texture, balancing the sweetness of red grapes, the savory, tender chicken, and the earthy crunch of walnuts. It’s a symphony of flavor, brought together by a creamy dressing that has just the right tanginess from ground mustard and dill. It’s my go-to recipe when I want a delicious, filling lunch that brings joy to my day. This is more than just a chicken salad, it’s a beloved family recipe that I’m excited to share with all of you.
Chicken: The main protein of your salad. You can use leftover roasted or grilled chicken, or even canned chicken in a pinch. Celery & Onion: These two add a delightful crunch and a bit of bite to the salad. Red Grapes: They bring in a sweet contrast to the savory ingredients, which can make the salad feel more refreshing and balanced. Walnuts: You can substitute with pecans if desired. They add an additional layer of texture and a slightly bitter contrast to the sweetness of the grapes. Salt, Pepper, & Mustard: Basic seasonings to elevate all the flavors. You can adjust to your liking. Dill: This herb adds a unique tanginess that complements the creaminess of the salad. Worcestershire Sauce: It adds a complex, savory, and slightly tangy flavor. Mayonnaise: The binder that holds everything together and adds creaminess. You can substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter version. Optional Toppings: Lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumber slices add freshness and can make your salad feel more like a complete meal if you’re serving it on its own.
I’m going to show you how to whip up my husband’s signature chicken salad – it’s ridiculously easy to make and downright delicious. Trust me, it’s a lunchtime game-changer. Start by tossing all your ingredients, from the chicken to the Worcestershire sauce, together in one large bowl. Remember, we’re going for uniformity here, so mix well! Now, cover your masterpiece with plastic wrap and let it take a little chill break in the fridge for at least an hour. After its cool-down, it’s ready to be the star of your sandwiches or wraps.
Storage
To store this delightful chicken salad, simply pop it into an airtight container and slide it into the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3-5 days. Now, if you’re looking to freeze it, I’d advise against it. Mayo-based salads like this one tend not to freeze well – you’ll likely end up with a watery, less appetizing result once defrosted. So, to maintain that fantastic flavor and texture, it’s best to enjoy this dish fresh and refrigerated.
Discover More Chicken Recipes
Loaded Chicken Salad Sandwiches with Guacamole Avocado Chicken Croissants Garlic and Paprika Chicken Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Salad Korean BBQ Chicken Chopped Mexican Chicken Salad Firecracker Chicken Meatballs
Recipe originally shared July 2012.
