Classic Chicken Salad

 Description

Classic Chicken Salad is a creamy, refreshing dish made with tender cooked chicken, crisp vegetables, and a flavourful mayonnaise-based dressing. It’s versatile, quick to prepare, and perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or served on its own. The combination of textures—juicy chicken, crunchy celery, and optional sweet grapes—makes it a timeless favourite.

 Servings

• Serves 3–4 people

 Time Required

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 15–20 minutes (if cooking chicken fresh)
• Total time: 30 minutes

 Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or diced)
• ½ cup celery, finely chopped
• ¼ cup red grapes (halved) (optional but recommended)
• 2 tbsp green onions or chives, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

For the Dressing:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt & black pepper to taste

 Instructions

1. Prepare chicken
   Cook and cool chicken if not already done. Shred or dice into bite-sized pieces.
2. Mix dressing
   In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Combine ingredients
   Add chicken, celery, grapes, green onions, and parsley to the bowl.
4. Toss well
   Mix until everything is evenly coated with dressing.
5. Chill (optional)
   Refrigerate for 20–30 minutes for best flavor.
6. Serve
   Serve on bread, lettuce wraps, or as a side dish.

 Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)

(Based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 300–350 kcal
• Protein: 22–26g
• Carbs: 6–10g
• Fat: 20–24g
• Fiber: 1–2g

 Health Benefits

• High protein → supports muscle growth and satiety
• Celery → low-calorie and aids digestion
• Lemon juice → boosts immunity and adds freshness
• Healthy fats (from mayo, depending on type) → energy and brain support
• Grapes (optional) → antioxidants and natural sweetness

 Tips for Best Results

• Use rotisserie chicken for quick preparation.
• Chill before serving for enhanced flavor.
• Adjust mayo quantity based on preferred creaminess.
• Add crunch with nuts like almonds or walnuts.
• Season gradually and taste as you go.

 Notes

• Substitute mayo with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
• Add avocado for extra creaminess and healthy fats.
• Great for meal prep—stores well in the fridge for 2–3 days.
• Can be served cold or slightly chilled.

 Q&A

Q1: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Yes, just use dairy-free mayonnaise.

Q2: What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
A: Greek yogurt or a mix of yogurt and mustard works well.

Q3: Can I freeze chicken salad?
A: Not recommended—the texture changes due to mayo.

Q4: How can I make it healthier?
A: Use low-fat mayo or Greek yogurt and add more veggies.

Q5: What can I serve it with?
A: Sandwiches, wraps, crackers, or lettuce cups.