This Classic Carol Chicken Salad is a tasty mix of juicy chicken, crunchy celery, and sweet grapes. It’s creamy, refreshing, and perfect for lunches or picnics!
If you’re like me, you might even sneak a scoop on crackers for a quick snack! It’s so easy to make—I just combine everything and chill. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Use any cooked chicken, shredded or chopped. Rotisserie chicken is great for convenience, or leftover roasted chicken works too. You can even use canned chicken if you’re in a hurry!
Mayonnaise: Classic mayo adds creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, some use plain Greek yogurt or a mix of both for a tangy twist. You can also try avocado for a mayo-free substitute.
Celery: Celery gives a nice crunch. If you’re not a fan, chopped apples or grapes can add a sweet crunch instead. Nuts like almonds or walnuts are also great options if you want a bit of texture!
Dijon mustard: This ingredient adds a bit of zing, but it’s optional. If you want a milder flavor, yellow mustard or even a touch of horseradish can work well.
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture in My Chicken Salad?
The secret to a creamy chicken salad is in how you mix the ingredients. First, make sure your chicken is cooled completely before mixing to avoid a warm salad. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start with shredded or chopped chicken, as it blends better.
- Mix the mayo and sour cream (or yogurt) in a separate bowl until smooth, then fold in the chicken and celery gently.
- Don’t over-mix; you want the ingredients to be well-coated but still retain some texture.
Chilling the salad allows the flavors to meld beautifully. A minimum of 30 minutes in the fridge is a must, but I often make mine a few hours ahead for even better flavor!
Classic Carol Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- Crackers or bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes of chilling time in the refrigerator. In total, you’ll be looking at about 40 minutes before you can enjoy your delicious chicken salad!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, chopped celery, mayonnaise, and sour cream (or Greek yogurt). This creamy base is what makes the salad so delightful!
2. Add Flavor:
Next, drizzle in the lemon juice and stir in the Dijon mustard if you like a bit of zing. Feel free to skip the mustard if you prefer a milder flavor.
3. Season It Up:
Sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste. If you choose to use them, add garlic powder and onion powder to enhance the flavor even more. Mix everything well until all the ingredients are evenly coated and creamy.
4. Chill Out:
Now, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it into the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, give the chicken salad a quick stir. Serve it on a bed of lettuce, as a sandwich on your favorite bread, or simply with crackers. Enjoy this tasty Classic Carol Chicken Salad at lunch or as a refreshing snack!
There you have it! This easy chicken salad is creamy, filling, and perfect for anytime you’re in need of a delicious dish.
FAQ for Classic Carol Chicken Salad
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover roasted chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even grilled chicken works perfectly. Just make sure the chicken is cooled and shredded or chopped before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Can I Make This Chicken Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare this chicken salad a day in advance. The flavors actually meld better when it sits in the fridge overnight. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh!
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, keep in mind that the texture may change upon thawing, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of making.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Salad?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your chicken salad by adding ingredients like chopped apples, grapes, nuts, or even dried cranberries for a burst of sweetness. Just keep the ratio of the creamy base the same for balance.
