Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?

While fresh or rotisserie chicken provides the best flavor and texture, canned chicken can work in a pinch. Be sure to drain it very well and break up any large chunks. You might want to add a bit more seasoning since canned chicken can be milder in flavor. Give it a try when you're really pressed for time!

How do I keep my apples from turning brown in the salad?

The lemon juice in the dressing helps prevent browning, but if you're prepping ahead, toss your diced apples in a tablespoon of lemon juice before adding them to the salad. Another option is to add the apples just before serving if you're making the rest of the salad in advance.

Is there a substitute for mayonnaise if I don't like it?

Absolutely! Greek yogurt makes an excellent substitute – it's tangier but still creamy. You can use all Greek yogurt or do a half-and-half mixture with mayo to ease into the different flavor profile. Sour cream or mashed avocado can also work, though they'll change the flavor profile more significantly.

Why did my chicken salad turn out watery after being in the refrigerator?

This happens when fruits and vegetables release their moisture over time. To prevent this, make sure your chicken is well-drained before adding it, and pat dry your celery and grapes after washing. If you still notice excess moisture after refrigeration, simply drain it off before serving or stir in a little more mayo to recombine.

Best Chicken Salad Recipe

Description

This Best Chicken Salad Recipe is a creamy, delicious, and versatile dish that is perfect for any occasion. Made with tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and sweet, tangy fruits coated in a flavorful homemade dressing, this salad offers the perfect balance of taste and texture. It’s easy to prepare and can be served as a sandwich filling, on a bed of greens, or even as a hearty snack with crackers.

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the dressing:

1 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon dijon mustard
1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley
1 tablespoon fresh-squeezed lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon sweet paprika
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the salad:

2 1/2 cups small diced cooked chicken
1/2 cup small diced celery
3/4 cup halved red grapes
1 cup small diced Honeycrisp apple
2 tablespoons finely diced red onion
1/4 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup toasted finely chopped pecans

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Instructions

Prepare the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, dijon mustard, parsley, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, sweet paprika, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
Add the Salad Ingredients
To the bowl with the dressing, add the diced chicken, celery, halved grapes, diced apple, red onion, cranberries, and toasted pecans. Gently mix together until everything is evenly coated in the dressing.
Combine and Serve
Stir all the ingredients together until well combined and the dressing is evenly distributed. Serve immediately or cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to serve. This will allow the flavors to meld and the salad to chill.

Notes

Chop Evenly: Ensure all ingredients are diced into small, uniform pieces for even flavors and textures in every bite.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste your dressing before tossing it with the salad. You can adjust the salt, pepper, or lemon juice according to your preference for a perfectly balanced flavor.
Serve Cold: Let the salad chill before serving for the best flavor and texture. It also makes the dish extra refreshing.
Versatile Serving Ideas: This chicken salad works beautifully in sandwiches, over lettuce, or even as a dip for crackers.
Experiment: Add variety by swapping red grapes for green grapes, or pecans for walnuts. Consider trying dried cherries instead of cranberries for a different burst of flavor.
Use Fresh Chicken: For the best results, use tender, freshly cooked chicken like a rotisserie or poached chicken pieces.

Nutrition

Calories: 350
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 430mg
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 19g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 15g
Cholesterol: 50mg