Lunch

Classic Chicken Salad

By RecipeNest · Lunch

This classic chicken salad recipe is the ultimate easy lunch, featuring tender shredded chicken, crunchy celery, sweet grapes, and toasted almonds tossed in a creamy mayo dressing. Perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or served on a bed of lettuce, this old-fashioned chicken salad is a make-ahead lunch favorite that keeps beautifully in the fridge for meal prep.

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Prep

15 min

Cook

0 min

Total

15 min

Servings

6

Calories

340

Classic Chicken Salad
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Ingredients

  • 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
  • 1 cup red seedless grapes, halved
  • 1 cup celery, finely diced
  • 1/2 cup slivered almonds, toasted
  • 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
  • 3/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. 1

    Whisk mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until smooth.

  2. 2

    Add the shredded chicken, grapes, celery, green onions, and toasted almonds.

  3. 3

    Fold gently until every piece is coated with the creamy dressing.

  4. 4

    Chill the chicken salad at least 30 minutes so the flavors meld.

  5. 5

    Serve on croissants, buttery brioche, lettuce cups, or over greens with crackers on the side.

Nutrition Facts

Per serving · 340 calories

protein

26g

carbs

8g

fat

22g

fiber

2g

sugar

6g

sodium

420mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best chicken to use for classic chicken salad?+

Poached or rotisserie chicken breast gives the most tender bite for a homemade chicken salad. Shred it while warm so it absorbs the creamy dressing, then chill before folding into the salad.

How long does chicken salad last in the fridge?+

Store this easy chicken salad in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Give it a stir before serving to redistribute the mayo dressing and refresh the texture.

Can I make chicken salad without mayo?+

Yes — swap the mayo for plain Greek yogurt for a lighter, high protein chicken salad, or use half mashed avocado for a dairy-free version with the same creamy feel.

What should I serve with chicken salad for lunch?+

This classic chicken salad pairs perfectly with our creamy tomato basil soup, buttery croissants, or a simple side of pasta salad for an easy make-ahead lunch spread.

Sarah Mitchell

Recipe by Sarah Mitchell

Professional home cook · Tested in a real American kitchen

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