Here’s a detailed, step-by-step article for your request:
Deli-Style Chicken Salad: A Classic Recipe You’ll Want on Repeat
When you walk into a deli, one of the most comforting and satisfying options you’ll find is a scoop of creamy, flavorful chicken salad. Served on fresh bread, tucked inside a wrap, or simply enjoyed over crisp lettuce, deli-style chicken salad is a timeless favorite. The good news? You can easily recreate this classic at home with simple ingredients and a straightforward method.
Here’s how to make your very own deli-style chicken salad, step by step.
Ingredients
For 4–6 servings, you’ll need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped or shredded (rotisserie chicken works perfectly)
- ½ cup mayonnaise (adjust for creaminess)
- 2 celery stalks, finely diced
- ½ small red onion (or 2 green onions), finely diced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for tang)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice or vinegar
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs (optional: parsley, dill, or tarragon for freshness)
Optional add-ins for variety: chopped pickles, grapes, cranberries, or nuts.
Step-by-Step Method
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
The foundation of deli-style chicken salad is tender, well-cooked chicken. You can use:
- Rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Poached chicken breasts for a leaner version (simmer in salted water until just cooked through, then cool and chop).
Once cooled, chop or shred the chicken into small bite-sized pieces. Aim for uniform chunks so every bite is balanced.
Step 2: Chop the Vegetables
Dice the celery and onion finely. These veggies add crunch and freshness, which balance the creaminess of the dressing.
If you want a milder flavor, soak diced onions in cold water for 5 minutes, then drain before adding.
Step 3: Mix the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- Mayonnaise
- Dijon mustard
- Lemon juice (or vinegar)
- A pinch of salt and black pepper
This simple dressing is the secret to the signature deli-style creaminess. Adjust the mayo and mustard ratio to suit your preference.
No Responses Yet