This Classic Chicken Salad recipe is a timeless culinary gem, cherished across generations and perfect for any occasion. Its signature blend of creamy mayonnaise and tangy sour cream delivers an irresistibly smooth texture that truly sets it apart. Whether you’re planning a vibrant party, a leisurely picnic, a quick lunch, or a satisfying dinner, this versatile salad is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
There’s something inherently comforting and endlessly satisfying about a perfectly made chicken salad. For many, including myself, it holds a special place in our hearts and on our tables. When the usual lunch routine feels a bit mundane, a fresh bowl of homemade chicken salad instantly elevates the meal. It’s not just for stacking between slices of bread; I often enjoy it as a sophisticated dinner platter, accompanied by a crisp side salad, juicy tomatoes, refreshing cucumbers, and a hard-boiled egg or two. This dish consistently delivers a delightful and fulfilling experience, making it a reliable favorite for any meal.
Why This Classic Chicken Salad Recipe Will Be Your New Favorite
What makes a classic chicken salad truly exceptional? It’s the harmonious balance of simplicity, versatility, and sheer deliciousness. This particular recipe elevates the humble chicken salad to an art form, making it much more than just a regular sandwich filling. Here’s why you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe time and again:
- Unmatched Versatility: This salad is truly a chameleon on your menu. It’s ideal for a casual weekday lunch, an elegant dinner entrée, a convenient snack, or the star attraction at any gathering, from backyard barbecues to sophisticated soirées. Its universal appeal ensures everyone, from picky eaters to gourmet enthusiasts, will find something to love.
- Effortless Preparation: You don’t need a pantry full of exotic ingredients or complex culinary techniques to create this masterpiece. With just a handful of readily available components, you can whip up a batch that tastes like it came from a five-star deli. It’s proof that simple can be utterly spectacular.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Life gets busy, and having delicious, healthy options ready to go can be a lifesaver. Prepare a generous portion of this chicken salad on a Sunday, and it will stay fresh and flavorful in your refrigerator for 3-5 days. This makes it an excellent choice for convenient grab-and-go lunches or quick dinners throughout the week, saving you time and stress.
- Creamy, Dreamy Texture: The secret to its incredible appeal lies in the luxurious combination of mayonnaise and sour cream. This duo creates a dressing that is both rich and light, coating every piece of chicken and vegetable in a smooth, velvety embrace. It’s a texture that’s utterly satisfying without being heavy.
- Customizable to Your Liking: While this recipe offers a classic foundation, it’s incredibly adaptable. Feel free to adjust the seasonings, add your favorite herbs, or experiment with different mix-ins to create your signature version. This flexibility ensures it always suits your taste preferences.
This classic chicken salad isn’t just a recipe; it’s an invitation to enjoy simple, delicious food that brings joy and convenience to your kitchen.
Essential Ingredients for Your Perfect Classic Chicken Salad
Crafting the ultimate classic chicken salad starts with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that beloved creamy texture and balanced flavor profile. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need:
- Chicken Breasts: The foundation of our salad. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are preferred for their lean meat and versatility.
- Celery: Provides that essential crisp texture and a subtle, refreshing bite that contrasts beautifully with the creamy dressing.
- Scallions (Green Onions): Offer a milder, more delicate onion flavor than yellow or red onions, adding a fresh, pungent note without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Coarse Kosher Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: These are non-negotiable for seasoning. Coarse kosher salt brings out the flavors without making the dish overly salty, and freshly ground pepper adds a zesty kick.
- Mayonnaise: The creamy cornerstone of any good chicken salad. Opt for a good quality full-fat mayonnaise for the richest flavor and silkiest texture.
- Sour Cream: This is where the magic happens for an extra creamy and slightly tangy dimension. It lightens the richness of the mayonnaise and adds depth.
- Dijon Mustard: A small but mighty ingredient that provides a subtle tang and a slight peppery zest, enhancing the overall flavor without making the salad taste “mustardy.”
- Dried Tarragon: This herb is the secret weapon for a truly classic chicken salad. Its delicate, slightly anise-like flavor pairs exceptionally well with chicken and creamy dressings, elevating the salad to gourmet status.
Preparing Your Chicken to Perfection:
Achieving the right texture and flavor for your chicken is crucial. My go-to method for chicken salad is baking. I simply season boneless, skinless chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper, place them on a baking sheet, and bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees F (74 degrees C). This usually takes about 20-30 minutes, depending on the thickness of the breasts.
If you prefer an alternative, poaching chicken breasts is another excellent option that results in tender, moist chicken. Simply simmer them gently in water or broth until cooked through. For those days when time is short, or you’re simply craving ultimate convenience (we all have those moments!), don’t hesitate to use pre-cooked, shredded rotisserie chicken from your local market. It’s a fantastic shortcut that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Choose the method that best suits your schedule and preferences – the goal is always tender, flavorful chicken.
Crafting Your Creamy Classic Chicken Salad: A Step-By-Step Guide
Making this beloved classic chicken salad is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these simple steps to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion:
Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Place your boneless, skinless chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet and season them generously with coarse kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Bake for approximately 20-30 minutes, or until the chicken is no longer pink in the center and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and allow it to cool completely before proceeding. This cooling step is crucial for easy dicing and ensures the chicken retains its moisture. Once cool, cut the chicken into small, uniform cubes – about 1/2 to 3/4 inch pieces are ideal for a good bite.
Step 2: Chop Your Fresh Vegetables
While the chicken is cooling, turn your attention to the fresh components. Finely chop your celery, aiming for small, consistent pieces that will integrate well into the salad and provide a pleasant crunch without being too dominant. Next, thinly slice your scallions (green onions), using both the white and the green parts for maximum flavor and visual appeal. These fresh elements are key to the salad’s texture and bright, savory notes.
Step 3: Whisk Together the Creamy Dressing
In a separate medium-sized bowl, combine the ingredients for your rich and tangy dressing. Add the good quality mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, coarse kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Using a whisk, vigorously combine all these ingredients until the mixture is completely smooth and well-emulsified. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if necessary – a perfect dressing is the heart of a perfect chicken salad. Set this aside until your chicken is ready.
Step 4: Combine All Ingredients
Once your chicken has cooled and been diced, transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Add the finely chopped celery, sliced scallions, and the dried tarragon. Give these ingredients a gentle toss to distribute them evenly before adding the dressing. This ensures all the flavors will meld beautifully.
Step 5: Dress and Chill Your Salad
Now, pour your prepared creamy dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture in the large bowl. Start by adding about half of the dressing, then gently fold everything together until the chicken and vegetables are thoroughly coated. This allows you to control the creaminess. If you prefer a wetter, richer salad, gradually add more dressing until it reaches your desired consistency. Taste the salad and adjust seasonings one last time – a pinch more salt, pepper, or even a touch more tarragon can make a difference. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or ideally a few hours) before serving. Chilling allows the flavors to meld and deepen, resulting in an even more delicious chicken salad.
Serving Suggestions: This versatile classic chicken salad is utterly delicious whether enjoyed on a platter with fresh greens and crudités, or as a delightful sandwich. For an elevated experience, try serving it on a flaky croissant with crisp lettuce and a slice of ripe, fresh tomato – a truly irresistible combination.
Herb Spotlight: Tarragon vs. Dill
While some chicken salad recipes call for fresh dill, I wholeheartedly believe that dried tarragon is the superior choice for a truly classic flavor profile. Tarragon offers a subtle, sophisticated anise-like note that beautifully complements the chicken and creamy dressing, imparting a delicate complexity that dill, while lovely, might not achieve in this specific recipe. However, taste is personal, and this recipe is wonderfully forgiving, so feel free to experiment with either herb to discover your preferred version.
I genuinely hope you and your loved ones give this cherished family recipe a try. It’s been a favorite among my family and countless friends for years, and I’m confident it will become a staple in your kitchen too. And here’s a fantastic tip for the holiday season: easily substitute chicken with leftover turkey from Thanksgiving for a delicious and resourceful post-holiday meal!
Should you decide to make this recipe, please share your thoughts! Your feedback and any questions you might have are always welcome in the comments section below. Enjoy every delightful bite!
Chef’s Notes & Expert Tips for the Best Classic Chicken Salad
Achieving the perfect chicken salad is about both the recipe and a few clever tricks. Keep these cook’s notes in mind for optimal results:
- Onion Alternatives: While scallions lend a mild, fresh onion flavor, don’t hesitate to substitute with finely minced yellow or red onion if you prefer a bolder taste. Red onion, in particular, adds a lovely color and a slightly sharper bite.
- Chicken Preparation Versatility: As discussed, baking is my preferred method for tender, easy-to-dice chicken. However, poaching chicken breasts in seasoned water or broth until cooked through is another excellent way to ensure moist results. For ultimate convenience, pre-shredded rotisserie chicken from your local grocery store is a fantastic time-saver that delivers great flavor and texture without extra cooking. Simply ensure it’s cooled before mixing.
- Chilling is Key: While tempting to serve immediately, allowing the chicken salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or even a few hours) before serving is highly recommended. This crucial step allows the flavors to meld and deepen, resulting in a much more harmonious and delicious final product.
- Seasoning to Taste: Always taste your chicken salad before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, or even a tiny bit more Dijon mustard as needed. Personal preference plays a big role in achieving your ideal flavor.
- Storage Savvy: Store your classic chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. This makes it an ideal candidate for weekly meal prep.
- Adding Texture: For an extra layer of texture, consider adding finely chopped walnuts, pecans, or slivered almonds. A small amount of crisp apple or grapes can also add a delightful sweetness and crunch.
- Serving Temperature: Chicken salad is always best served chilled.
Explore More Delicious Chicken Salad Creations
If you love this classic recipe, you might enjoy exploring other exciting variations of chicken salad:
Curried Chicken Salad – A vibrant and aromatic twist with warming spices.
Chicken Salad with Peppadews and Olives – A sweet and savory delight with a Mediterranean flair.
Southwest Chicken Salad with Chipotle Vinaigrette – A zesty and smoky option with bold flavors.
Classic Chicken Salad
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Ingredients
- 5 cups cooked boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into small cubes
- 2/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 tsp. Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp. coarse kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp. pepper
- 3/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 4 scallions, thinly sliced
- 1 -1 1/2 Tbsp. dried tarragon, first add one tablespoon, taste and then decide if you’d prefer more
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or tinfoil. Place chicken breasts on baking sheet and sprinkle generously with salt and pepper. Bake until no longer pink inside with an internal temperature of 165 degrees F (74 C), about 20-30 minutes depending on thickness. Remove from oven and let cool completely. Once cool, cut into small, uniform cubes. Place cubes in a large mixing bowl.
- While the chicken is cooling, in a separate bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, coarse kosher salt, and pepper. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. Set aside.
- Add your finely chopped celery, thinly sliced scallions, and dried tarragon to the cooled, cubed chicken in your large bowl. Pour the desired amount of dressing over the chicken mixture and gently toss until all ingredients are well combined and coated. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper if necessary. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
Notes
As mentioned above, I recommend baking chicken breasts for this recipe for best results, but you can also poach them until cooked through for a tender option. For ultimate convenience, using shredded rotisserie chicken from your local market is a fantastic time-saving alternative.