Simply Delicious Chicken Salad

Name: Simply Delicious Chicken Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup celery, chopped; 1 cup red grapes, halved; 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1/2 cup almonds, sliced; 2 cups mixed salad greens; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Easy Home Recipes

I absolutely love this Simply Delicious Chicken Salad because it’s a quick and easy meal that packs in so much flavor. Whether I’m looking for a light lunch or a protein-packed snack, this salad hits the spot. The combination of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a creamy dressing is so satisfying yet refreshing. Plus, it's versatile—I can mix and match ingredients based on what I have on hand, making it a perfect go-to recipe for any day of the week. Trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-13T14:25:30.983Z

When I first experimented with this chicken salad, I wanted to create something that felt indulgent yet wholesome. I found that using leftover rotisserie chicken is a game changer—it saves me time while still delivering amazing flavor. I also like to add a splash of lemon juice for extra brightness, which elevates the entire dish.

One secret I’ve learned is to let the salad sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a taste explosion that’s even better than you’d expect. It’s a simple tip, but it makes a world of difference!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Fresh veggies combined with tender chicken for a satisfying meal
Creamy dressing adds a rich flavor without being overwhelming
Quick to prepare, perfect for a busy lifestyle

      

Mastering the Perfect Dressing

The dressing is crucial for this chicken salad, as it balances the flavors of the ingredients. I prefer using a high-quality mayonnaise for a creamy base; the richness helps to round out the sharpness of the Dijon mustard and lemon juice. Whisking the ingredients together until completely smooth ensures that each bite of the salad is consistently flavorful. If you desire a slightly tangier dressing, adding a touch more lemon juice can elevate the brightness.

While the classic mayonnaise base works beautifully, you can also experiment with yogurt or sour cream for a lighter alternative. These substitutes provide creaminess with fewer calories and add a unique tang. If you have a dairy-free or vegan audience, consider using an avocado-based mayonnaise for a creamy texture without the eggs. Just be sure to taste as you go, adjusting the acid and seasoning to suit your preference.

Choosing the Right Chicken

When it comes to the chicken for this salad, using leftovers from a rotisserie chicken can save you time and enhance the flavor. Rotisserie chicken is seasoned and juicy, providing a depth of taste that plain poached chicken may lack. If you opt to cook the chicken yourself, roasting or grilling it with your favorite spices will yield a flavorful result. Remember to let the chicken cool before shredding it to maintain its tender texture.

For a different twist, you could also use grilled chicken thighs instead of breast meat in this recipe. The darker meat adds richness and holds moisture well, making it an excellent option for salads. Just ensure that the chicken is cooked until the internal temperature reaches 165°F to guarantee it’s safe to eat, and rest it for at least five minutes before shredding.

Ingredients

For the Salad

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup celery, chopped
1 cup red grapes, halved
1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup almonds, sliced
2 cups mixed salad greens

For the Dressing

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Dressing

In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined. Adjust seasoning to your taste.

Combine the Salad Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, chopped celery, halved grapes, red onion, and sliced almonds. Toss gently to mix.

Add the Dressing

Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and mix until everything is evenly coated. Be careful not to break up the chicken too much.

Serve

Place a bed of mixed salad greens on a plate and top with the chicken salad mixture. Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for a little while to let the flavors meld.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding your favorite herbs like dill or parsley. This salad can be customized with different nuts or fruits as well.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This chicken salad is a fantastic make-ahead option. After mixing all the salad ingredients and dressing, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will deepen after a day, making it even more delicious. However, you might want to keep the salad greens separate until you're ready to serve, to ensure they stay crisp and fresh.

If you plan to freeze the chicken salad, it's best to do so without the dressing. Store the salad components in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then mix in the dressing just before serving. This approach helps preserve the integrity of the ingredients and prevents any texture changes.

Creative Variations

Feel free to customize this chicken salad based on what you have on hand. Adding ingredients like diced apples or pears can introduce a delightful sweetness that pairs well with the savory chicken and crunchy nuts. Additionally, swapping out almonds for walnuts or pecans can lend a different texture and flavor profile that keeps this recipe exciting each time you make it.

If you're looking to spice things up, consider incorporating fresh herbs such as dill, parsley, or cilantro. Chopped fresh herbs not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a refreshing brightness that complements the creaminess of the dressing. A touch of curry powder or cayenne pepper can also impart a warm flavor if you're in the mood for something bold.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned chicken in this recipe?

Yes, canned chicken works great for convenience, but fresh cooked chicken offers the best flavor.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftover chicken salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! Just keep the dressing separate until you are ready to serve to maintain freshness.

→ What can I serve this chicken salad with?

This salad pairs wonderfully with pita bread, crackers, or can be served in a wrap for a delicious meal on the go.