This Creamy Chicken Salad is a timeless comfort food favorite that’s perfect for quick lunches, light dinners, or meal prep throughout the week. Made with tender cooked chicken, a rich and creamy dressing, and simple seasonings, this classic chicken salad recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort. It’s versatile, budget-friendly, and ideal for sandwiches, wraps, or low-carb meals.
Why This Recipe Works
This homemade chicken salad is creamy without being heavy, balanced with savory and fresh flavors, and easy to customize. Using simple pantry ingredients keeps it affordable, while the high-protein content makes it filling and satisfying. It’s a great option for healthy lunches, family gatherings, or make-ahead meals.
Ingredients
Cooked chicken, diced or shredded – 3 cups
Mayonnaise – ¾ cup
Celery, finely chopped – 2 stalks
Red onion, finely diced – 2 tablespoons
Dijon or yellow mustard – 1 teaspoon
Salt – ½ teaspoon
Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
Optional add-ins: sweet relish, chopped pickles, grapes, apples, or fresh herbs
Instructions
Prepare the chicken
If not already cooked, boil, bake, or rotisserie-cook the chicken until tender. Allow it to cool, then dice or shred into bite-sized pieces.
Mix the dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, mustard, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
Combine ingredients
Add the chicken, celery, and red onion to the bowl. Gently fold everything together until evenly coated with the dressing.
Chill for best flavor
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows the flavors to blend and improves the overall texture.
Taste and adjust
Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add extra mayonnaise if you prefer a creamier chicken salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy chicken salad on toasted bread, croissants, or sandwich rolls for a classic deli-style lunch. It’s also delicious wrapped in lettuce for a low-carb option or spooned over crackers as an easy appetizer.
Storage Tips
Store chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving, as the dressing may thicken slightly when chilled.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Chicken Salad is a simple yet satisfying recipe that never goes out of style. Whether you’re meal prepping, hosting a brunch, or looking for an easy high-protein lunch, this classic chicken salad recipe is a reliable favorite that delivers comfort and flavor every time.
