This Easy Classic Carol Chicken Salad is perfect for quick lunches or picnics! It combines tender chicken, crunchy celery, and sweet grapes, all mixed in creamy mayo.
You’ll love how simple it is to whip up! I often serve it on bread or in lettuce wraps. It’s delicious and keeps well, so I can snack on it for days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: You need about 2 cups of shredded or chopped cooked chicken. Rotisserie chicken is my favorite for ease, but leftover grilled or baked chicken works great too!
Mayonnaise: This provides creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use Greek yogurt or a mix of yogurt and mayo for a tangy flavor.
Celery: It adds a nice crunchy texture. If you’re not a fan, try using diced cucumbers or bell peppers instead for that crunch.
Lemon Juice: This brightens the flavor. If you don’t have lemon, vinegar (apple cider or white) can be an okay substitute, though the taste will vary slightly.
Optional Add-ins: Grapes or apples bring sweetness. If you’re feeling adventurous, try nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch, or dried cranberries for a sweet-tart twist.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Chicken Salad?
To make the chicken salad really pop with flavor, following these tips can help:
- Use cooked chicken that’s seasoned well. Salt and pepper in the cooking process helps the salad taste better.
- Let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This resting period allows all the flavors to meld together nicely.
- Don’t skip the optional sweetness! A dash of sugar or honey can balance the flavors and enhance the salad.
Remember, tasting and adjusting seasoning is key! Enjoy making this easy classic!
Easy Classic Carol Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or finely chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup celery, finely diced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 teaspoon sugar or honey for a touch of sweetness
- Optional: 1/4 cup sliced grapes or chopped apple for extra texture and sweetness
- Crackers or bread for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes for chilling in the refrigerator. So, you can have a delicious chicken salad ready in about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Chicken and Celery:
In a mixing bowl, start by adding the shredded or chopped cooked chicken and the finely diced celery. This mixture is the base of your salad!
2. Mix in the Dressing:
Next, pour in the mayonnaise and lemon juice. Stir well to ensure all the chicken and celery are nicely coated in the creamy dressing.
3. Season Your Salad:
Now, it’s time to season! Sprinkle in the salt and black pepper. If you’d like a hint of sweetness, add sugar or honey at this stage, too. Give it another good stir to mix everything together.
4. Add Optional Ingredients:
If you’re using grapes or apples for that extra touch of flavor and crunch, gently fold them into the mixture, being careful not to break them.
5. Chill Before Serving:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors blend and makes it cool and refreshing!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, serve the chicken salad on crackers or as a sandwich filling. It’s perfect for lunches, picnics, or a quick snack!
Enjoy your creamy and delicious classic chicken salad that’s quick and easy to prepare!
FAQ for Easy Classic Carol Chicken Salad
Can I Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Using leftover rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred or chop it as needed, and it’ll add wonderful flavor to your salad!
How Long Can I Store This Chicken Salad?
The chicken salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep it chilled, and stir before serving to refresh the texture.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the chicken salad up to a day in advance. Just make sure to store it in the fridge to let the flavors meld together nicely.
What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, Greek yogurt or a mix of yogurt and a small amount of mayo works well. You can also try using avocado for a creamy texture and flavor!
