25 Best Chicken Salad Recipes: Classic, Low-Fat & Restaurant-Style Variations

Chicken salad is the ultimate versatile dish that can be enjoyed in countless ways – from classic chicken salad sandwiches to inventive low-carb variations and restaurant-inspired creations. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch option, a healthy meal prep solution, or a crowd-pleasing party dish, this comprehensive guide has you covered with 25 delicious chicken salad recipes.

Classic Chicken Salad Recipe

Ingredients:

• 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (for creaminess)
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup red onion, minced
• 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the chicken by shredding cooked chicken breast. You can use rotisserie chicken or boil your own chicken breasts until cooked through.

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.

Step 3: Add the shredded chicken to the bowl along with chopped celery, red onion, pickle relish, and fresh parsley.

Step 4: Gently fold all ingredients together until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.

Expert Tips for Perfect Chicken Salad

• Chicken Texture Matters: For the best texture, use a combination of shredded and diced chicken
• Chill Ingredients: Start with cold ingredients for better consistency
• Herb Variations: Try different herbs like dill, tarragon, or chives for unique flavors
• Crunch Factor: Add toasted nuts or seeds for extra texture
• Make Ahead: Chicken salad tastes even better the next day

Low-Fat Chicken Salad Ideas

For those watching their calorie intake, try these healthy variations:

Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad

• Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt
• Add diced cucumbers and fresh dill
• Season with garlic powder and lemon zest

Avocado Chicken Salad

• Mash avocado instead of using mayonnaise
• Add cherry tomatoes and red bell peppers
• Include fresh cilantro for a Mexican twist

Restaurant-Style Chicken Salad Recipes

McAlister’s Chicken Salad Recipe

Recreate the deli favorite with this copycat recipe:

• Use high-quality mayonnaise base
• Include finely chopped celery and onions
• Add a touch of sugar for slight sweetness
• Serve on croissants for authentic experience

Culver’s Chicken Salad Ingredients

The Midwestern classic features:

• White meat chicken chunks
• Creamy mayonnaise dressing
• Celery and onion for crunch
• Simple seasoning with salt and pepper

Low-Carb Chicken Salad Dish

Perfect for keto and low-carb diets:

• Serve in lettuce cups instead of bread
• Add avocado for healthy fats
• Include hard-boiled eggs for extra protein
• Use sugar-free ingredients

Chicken Salad With Cabbage And Apples

A refreshing twist on classic chicken salad:

• Thinly slice green cabbage for crunch
• Add diced crisp apples (Granny Smith works well)
• Include toasted walnuts or pecans
• Use a light vinaigrette instead of mayonnaise

Classic Chicken Salad Sandwich

The lunchtime favorite:

• Use thick-cut bread or croissants
• Add lettuce and tomato slices
• Toast the bread for better texture
• Spread both sides with mayonnaise

Salad Macaroni Variation

For those who love pasta salads:

• Add cooked elbow macaroni or pasta shells
• Mix with chicken salad ingredients
• Include diced vegetables like bell peppers
• Use Italian dressing for a different flavor profile

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does chicken salad last in the refrigerator?

Properly stored chicken salad will last 3-5 days in an airtight container.

Can I freeze chicken salad?

It’s not recommended as mayonnaise-based salads don’t freeze well due to texture changes.

What’s the best way to cook chicken for chicken salad?

Poaching or baking chicken breasts produces the best texture for shredding.

How can I make chicken salad creamier?

Add more mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, or include a tablespoon of sour cream.

What bread is best for chicken salad sandwiches?

Croissants, sourdough, whole wheat, or multigrain bread all work wonderfully.

Classic Chicken Salad Recipe

This classic chicken salad features tender shredded chicken breast mixed with mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, and fresh vegetables for a creamy, flavorful dish. Perfect for sandwiches or as a standalone salad, it’s an easy-to-make recipe that can be customized with various herbs and crunchy additions.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 5 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 320

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (for creaminess)
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup red onion, minced
• 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Method

 

Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken by shredding cooked chicken breast. You can use rotisserie chicken or boil your own chicken breasts until cooked through.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
3. Add the shredded chicken to the bowl along with chopped celery, red onion, pickle relish, and fresh parsley.
4. Gently fold all ingredients together until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.

Notes

Chicken salad tastes even better the next day as flavors meld together. For best texture, use a combination of shredded and diced chicken.