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Bowl of creamy chicken salad with celery and parsley garnish on a wooden table.

Basic Chicken Salad

This classic chicken salad is creamy, crunchy, and packed with deli flavor. Perfect for make-ahead brunches or quick lunches.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Resting Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups cooked chicken shredded or diced (about 1 rotisserie chicken)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise full-fat preferred
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup finely diced celery about 3 stalks
  • 1/4 cup minced yellow onion about 1/2 small onion
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley optional

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  2. Add the shredded chicken, diced celery, minced onion, and parsley (if using). Fold gently until everything is evenly coated.
  3. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
  4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  5. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Stir before serving.