Classic Creamy Chicken Salad Recipe | NewsPro

This classic creamy chicken salad is a simple, satisfying dish that can be enjoyed on its own, in a sandwich, or wrapped in lettuce leaves. It combines tender chicken pieces with crunchy vegetables, a creamy dressing, and fresh herbs for a balanced flavor. It's ideal for meal prep or a quick, crowd-pleasing meal.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Salad

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped or shredded
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (optional, for a lighter dressing)
• 1/4 cup celery, finely diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
• 2 tablespoons fresh chives or green onions, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a tangy kick)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for added flavor)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, for freshness)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. If not already cooked, start by poaching or grilling the chicken breasts. Allow them to cool before chopping or shredding into bite-sized pieces.
2. Finely dice the celery, red onion, and green onions (or chives) to add crunch and a bit of color to the salad.

Step 2: Make the Dressing

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise and Greek yogurt (if using).
2. Add the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and lemon juice for extra flavor. Stir well to create a smooth, creamy dressing.
3. Season the dressing with salt and black pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Add the chopped or shredded chicken, diced celery, red onion, green onions (or chives), and parsley to the bowl with the dressing.
2. Gently fold everything together until all ingredients are well-coated with the dressing.

Step 4: Adjust Seasoning

1. Taste the salad and adjust the salt, pepper, or mustard as desired.
2. For an extra pop of freshness, add a bit more lemon juice or some additional chopped herbs.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Transfer the chicken salad to a serving dish and garnish with extra chives or parsley if desired.
2. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
3. Enjoy the salad on its own, in a sandwich, or over a bed of greens for a lighter option.

Tips and Variations

• Add-ins: Feel free to add extras like diced apples, grapes, toasted almonds, or dried cranberries for sweetness and texture.
• Make it spicy: For a bit of heat, mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce.
• Lighten it up: Use all Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lower-calorie version.
• Serve creatively: Try serving this salad in lettuce cups, stuffed into a pita, or with crackers for a unique twist.