This classic chicken salad is a tried-and-true favorite that is perfect for picnics, gatherings, or a simple weekday lunch. It delivers that nostalgic deli-style flavor with a creamy dressing and fresh herbs, making it the ultimate way to transform leftovers into a gourmet meal.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
There is a reason everyone needs a reliable classic chicken salad recipe in their repertoire. This version is simple, creamy, and packed with flavor without any “weird stuff” or unnecessary fillers. It uses a combination of mayonnaise and sour cream to create a tangy, rich base that perfectly coats tender pieces of chicken. Whether you use poached, grilled, or rotisserie chicken, this recipe is incredibly versatile and consistently delicious. It is the perfect balance of savory chicken, crunchy celery, and bright, fresh herbs.
Ingredients
- 2/3 cup mayonnaise (high quality such as Hellmann’s or Duke’s)
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 4 1/2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 3 scallions, light and dark green parts, thinly sliced
- 2 ribs celery, finely diced
- 3 tablespoons fresh chopped dill
- 3 tablespoons fresh chopped Italian parsley
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, sugar, and freshly ground black pepper until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine the ingredients: Add the shredded cooked chicken, sliced scallions, diced celery, fresh dill, and chopped parsley to the bowl with the dressing.
- Mix and chill: Gently toss the ingredients together until the chicken and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing. Taste the salad and adjust the salt or pepper if necessary. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the classic chicken salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
Expert Tips / Pro Tips
For the best results with your classic chicken salad, use high-quality mayonnaise. Brands like Duke’s or Hellmann’s provide the right fat content and flavor profile for a professional deli taste. If you are using a store-bought rotisserie chicken, be careful not to over-mix, as the tender meat can shred too finely and become mushy. Always use fresh lemon juice rather than the bottled kind to provide that essential bright, acidic note that cuts through the richness of the mayo. Finally, don’t skip the chilling step; even 30 minutes in the fridge helps the herbs infuse into the dressing.
If you want to customize your classic chicken salad, there are several easy ways to do so. For a spicy version, add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce or some finely diced jalapeños. To make a lighter version, you can substitute the sour cream with plain Greek yogurt and use a light mayonnaise. If you enjoy a bit of sweetness and extra crunch, try adding halved red grapes, diced apples, or dried cranberries along with some toasted walnuts or pecans. You can also experiment with different herbs like tarragon, chives, or basil to change the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
This classic chicken salad is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. For a traditional lunch, pile it high on toasted sourdough, a buttery croissant, or inside a soft flour wrap with crisp lettuce. For a lower-carb option, serve a large scoop over a bed of mixed spring greens or inside hollowed-out tomato halves or avocado shells. It also makes a fantastic appetizer when served with a side of buttery crackers or toasted baguette slices at your next gathering.
Classic chicken salad should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 2 days. Because this recipe contains mayonnaise and sour cream, it does not freeze well; the dressing will break and become oily and grainy upon thawing. This dish is intended to be served cold, so no reheating is necessary. If the salad seems a bit dry after sitting in the fridge, simply stir in an extra teaspoon of mayonnaise before serving to restore the creamy texture.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving (6 Servings) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 431 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 2g |
| Protein | 20g |
| Fat | 38g |
| Saturated Fat | 9g |
| Cholesterol | 94mg |
| Sodium | 393mg |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 1g |
FAQ
Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?
While fresh poached or rotisserie chicken provides the best texture and flavor, you can use high-quality canned chicken in a pinch. Make sure to drain it very well and pat it dry before mixing it with the dressing.
How long can chicken salad sit out at room temperature?
Because this recipe contains dairy and poultry, it should not sit out at room temperature for more than two hours. If you are serving it at an outdoor picnic, keep the bowl nestled in a larger bowl of ice to keep it chilled.
What is the best way to cook chicken for this salad?
Poaching is the preferred method for a traditional texture, as it keeps the meat very moist. However, roasting bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts at 425°F for 30-35 minutes provides a deeper flavor that many people prefer.
Is chicken salad gluten-free?
The ingredients in this classic chicken salad recipe are naturally gluten-free. However, always check the labels on your mayonnaise and mustard to ensure they were processed in a gluten-free facility if you have a severe allergy.
Classic Chicken Salad
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, mustard, salt, sugar, and pepper until smooth.
- Add the shredded chicken, sliced scallions, diced celery, chopped dill, and parsley to the dressing.
- Toss the mixture thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or pepper if necessary.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate until ready to serve. The salad can be made up to 2 days in advance.