This tasty chicken salad is packed with tender chicken, crunchy celery, and creamy mayo, making it perfect for sandwiches or a light meal. It’s a copycat version that hits the spot!
Honestly, every bite feels like a little hug for your taste buds. I like to serve it on fresh bread, but it’s also great on crackers. Yum! Who can resist a good chicken salad?
What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. Just mix everything in a bowl and you’re all set for a delicious meal. It’s a go-to for quick lunches!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great choice for this recipe. It’s easy and flavorful. If you’re cooking your own, poach chicken breasts for about 20-25 minutes.
Celery: This adds a nice crunch! If you don’t have celery, you could use chopped apples or grapes for a sweet twist.
Red Onion: Finely chopped red onion gives a nice bite. For a milder taste, consider using green onions or sweet onions like Vidalia.
Mayonnaise and Greek Yogurt: This combo keeps the salad creamy yet light. You can use all mayonnaise for a richer taste or all Greek yogurt for a healthier option. If you’re vegan, try using avocado or vegan mayo.
Dijon Mustard: It adds tang and depth. If you’re not a fan, yellow mustard will work, but it will be less spicy.
Almonds or Pecans: These are optional but add a great crunch. If you have nut allergies, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds are good alternatives!
How Do I Get the Perfect Flavor Balance?
Mixing the dressing well is key to making sure every bite is flavorful. Start by combining the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper thoroughly in a separate bowl. This ensures that the ingredients blend smoothly.
- Use a whisk or fork to mix everything until it’s creamy and there are no lumps.
- Make sure to taste the dressing before adding it to the chicken. You can always adjust the seasoning.
After combining all the ingredients, let your salad chill in the fridge for at least an hour. This resting time helps the flavors meld together for a tastier salad.
Ultimate Copycat Chicken Salad Chick Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
For The Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (or additional mayo if preferred)
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds or pecans (for crunch)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour to chill in the refrigerator. It’s a simple and quick way to create a delicious chicken salad that’s perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or just enjoying on its own!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken and Veggies:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped celery, and finely chopped red onion. Use a spoon to mix them together so that everything is evenly distributed.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until the dressing is smooth and all ingredients are blended.
3. Combine It All:
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture. Gently stir everything together with a spatula or spoon, making sure the chicken and veggies are well coated in the dressing.
4. Add Crunch (If Desired):
If you’re using slivered almonds or pecans for extra texture, fold them into the chicken salad mixture now. This step is optional but adds a nice crunch!
5. Taste and Adjust:
Take a moment to taste your chicken salad. If you feel like it needs more flavor, you can add extra salt and pepper to suit your taste.
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 1 hour. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
7. Enjoy Your Chicken Salad:
When you’re ready to eat, take it out of the fridge. Serve it chilled, garnished with fresh parsley if you like. It’s fantastic on a sandwich, in a wrap, or just by itself. Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While rotisserie chicken is a great choice for its flavor and convenience, you can use any cooked chicken you have on hand. Grilled, poached, or even leftover roasted chicken will work just as well. Just be sure to shred or chop it into small pieces!
Can I Substitute the Greek Yogurt?
Yes! If you don’t have Greek yogurt or prefer not to use it, you can substitute it with additional mayonnaise for a creamy texture. Alternatively, sour cream can also be used if you want a little tanginess in your salad.
How Long Will This Chicken Salad Last in the Fridge?
This chicken salad can last in the fridge for up to 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container. Just make sure to keep it chilled, and always check for freshness before consuming leftovers. If it looks or smells off, it’s best to discard it.
Can I Make This Chicken Salad Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it ahead of time allows the flavors to develop even more. You can prepare this salad up to a day in advance. Just be sure to cover it well and keep it in the refrigerator. Give it a good stir before serving to refresh the texture!
