How To Make Classic Chicken Salad

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded (about 2 medium chicken breasts or 1 rotisserie chicken)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for a bit of tang)
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped (or green onion for a milder flavor)
• 1/4 cup sweet pickle relish (optional for a touch of sweetness)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional, for added freshness)

Optional Add-ins:

• 1/4 cup chopped nuts (like almonds or pecans, for crunch)
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries or grapes, halved (for a touch of sweetness)
• 1/4 cup shredded cheese (like cheddar or Swiss, for added flavor)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   1. If you haven’t already, cook the chicken. You can poach, bake, or grill it. Once cooked, let it cool slightly and then dice or shred it into bite-sized pieces.
2. Mix the Dressing:
   1. In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice (if using). Mix until smooth.
3. Combine Ingredients:
   1. Add the diced chicken, chopped celery, red onion, and sweet pickle relish (if using) to the bowl. Gently stir until all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
4. Season:
   1. Taste the salad and season with salt and black pepper to your liking. Add the fresh parsley or dill if you’re using them.
5. Add Optional Ingredients:
   1. If you’re adding nuts, dried cranberries, or cheese, fold them into the salad now.
6. Chill:
   1. For the best flavor, cover the salad and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
7. Serve:
   1. Serve the chicken salad on a bed of greens, in a sandwich, or with crackers. It’s also great in wraps or as a filling for pita pockets.

Tips:

• Chicken: For a richer flavor, use a mix of white and dark meat. Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut.
• Mayonnaise: Adjust the amount of mayonnaise based on your preference for creaminess. You can also use Greek yogurt or a mix of mayonnaise and Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
• Flavor Variations: Experiment with different herbs and spices, or add a splash of hot sauce for a kick.

Enjoy your classic chicken salad!