Description

Classic Chicken Salad combines tender shredded chicken with crisp celery, sweet red grapes, and a creamy plant-based mayonnaise dressing enhanced by fresh lemon juice and green onions. Quick to prepare and versatile, this refreshing and nutritious salad is perfect for any meal, served chilled or warmed, and adaptable with flavorful variations.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
1 cup celery, finely diced
1 cup red grapes, halved
2 green onions, thinly sliced
2 cups mixed salad greens (optional)
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste

Dressing Ingredients

1/2 cup plant-based mayonnaise (natural)
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (natural)
1 pinch natural gelling agent (optional, for firmer texture)

Optional Variations

1/4 cup chopped walnuts or almonds for crunch
1/2 cup diced mango or pineapple for tropical twist
2 tablespoons fresh herbs (dill, parsley, or tarragon), chopped
1/4 teaspoon chili powder or cayenne pepper for spicy kick
1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice for grain bowl style

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Start with cooked chicken breast or thigh, shredded or chopped into small, even pieces. Using warm chicken makes mixing easier, but cooled chicken works best for chilling later.
Chop Fresh Ingredients: Dice celery finely for crunch and halve the grapes for bursts of sweetness. Slice green onions thinly to add brightness without overpowering.
Make the Dressing: In a bowl, combine plant-based mayonnaise (natural), fresh lemon juice (natural), salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy, adding a pinch of natural gelling agent if you want a firmer texture.
Mix Everything Together: Gently fold the chicken, vegetables, and dressing until every piece is coated. Take care not to smash the grapes as you go.
Chill Before Serving: For the best flavor, refrigerate the salad for at least an hour to let the ingredients meld wonderfully. This also helps firm up the dressing’s texture.

Notes

Use fresh chicken such as rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor.
Add crunchy vegetables last or toss gently to maintain crisp texture.
Adjust grapes and lemon juice to balance sweet and savory taste.
Serve the salad chilled for optimal refreshing flavor.
For plant-based dressing, keep it plain and brighten with lemon juice without overpowering spices.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: No cooking required
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 250
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 300mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: classic chicken salad, plant-based dressing, healthy lunch, quick chicken salad, gluten free salad