How To Make Classic Chicken Salad: A Step-by-Step Guide to a Timeless Favorite

Chicken salad is a classic dish beloved for its creamy texture, fresh flavors, and versatility. Whether served as a sandwich filling, a side dish, or a light lunch, this recipe offers a perfect balance of tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and tangy dressing. Making a classic chicken salad at home is easy, rewarding, and allows you to customize it to your taste.

In this article, you’ll learn how to make classic chicken salad step by step, from cooking the chicken perfectly to mixing all the ingredients for a delicious, satisfying result.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start, gather the following ingredients:

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (use rotisserie, boiled, or grilled chicken)
1/2 cup mayonnaise (adjust for creaminess)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (for a little tang)
1 celery stalk, finely chopped (for crunch)
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped (optional, for flavor)
1/4 cup sweet pickle relish or chopped pickles (optional, for a sweet tang)
1 teaspoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh herbs like parsley or dill (optional, chopped)
Lettuce leaves or bread (for serving)

Step-by-Step Method to Make Classic Chicken Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

If you don’t have pre-cooked chicken, start by cooking your chicken breast:

Boiling method: Place chicken breasts in a pot, cover with water, and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 12-15 minutes or until fully cooked. Let cool.
Grilling method: Season chicken breasts lightly with salt and pepper. Grill over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through. Let cool.

Once cooled, shred the chicken using two forks or dice it into bite-sized pieces.