Chicken salad is a classic recipe that combines simplicity, versatility, and deliciousness. It’s perfect for quick meals, gatherings, or as a make-ahead lunch option. Using canned chicken makes this recipe even more convenient without sacrificing flavor. Below, we’ll explore a detailed recipe, tips to perfect it, serving suggestions, and how to store leftovers.
1. Old Fashioned Homemade Chicken Salad Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cans of chicken (12.5 ounces each, drained and flaked)
- ½ cup mayonnaise (use your preferred brand or adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 celery stalk, finely diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped (optional)
- ½ cup red grapes, halved (optional, for a sweet twist)
- ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, for crunch)
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley or dill, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Open the canned chicken, drain the liquid, and flake it with a fork in a large mixing bowl to break it into smaller, bite-sized pieces.
Add the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice to the chicken. Stir well to coat the chicken with the creamy mixture.
Fold in the diced celery, red onion, grapes, and nuts. Mix gently to ensure an even distribution of flavors and textures.
Sprinkle in salt and pepper, adjusting to your liking. If you’re using fresh herbs like parsley or dill, add them at this stage for a burst of freshness.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
2. Tips for Perfecting This Recipe
Choose High-Quality Canned Chicken
Not all canned chicken is created equal. Opt for high-quality brands labeled “in water” to avoid overly salty or mushy chicken. Draining it thoroughly before use ensures the perfect texture.
Balance the Creaminess
The ratio of mayonnaise to chicken is key. Start with ½ cup and add more gradually if necessary. This prevents the salad from becoming overly heavy.
Incorporate Texture
Adding ingredients like celery, nuts, and grapes creates a balanced mix of crunch, sweetness, and creaminess. Adjust the quantities to suit your preference.
Season Gradually
Salt and pepper are essential but should be added sparingly at first. Taste as you go to avoid over-seasoning.
Use Fresh Lemon Juice
Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the salad and cuts through the richness of the mayo. Bottled lemon juice can lack the same vibrant flavor.
Chill for Better Flavor
Allowing the salad to chill in the fridge for 30 minutes or more enhances the overall taste as the ingredients have time to meld together.
3. Serving Suggestions
Chicken salad is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways to suit your occasion or mood. Here are some ideas:
On Sandwiches: Spread the chicken salad between slices of your favorite bread or toast. Add lettuce, tomato, or avocado for extra flavor.
In Lettuce Wraps: Scoop the salad into large lettuce leaves for a low-carb, refreshing option.
With Crackers: Serve it as a dip alongside crackers or pita chips for a quick snack or appetizer.
On a Salad Plate: Create a light meal by serving the chicken salad on a bed of mixed greens or spinach with a drizzle of olive oil.
Stuffed in Vegetables: Hollow out tomatoes, avocados, or bell peppers and fill them with chicken salad for an elegant presentation.
4. How to Store Leftovers
Storing Chicken Salad
- Transfer leftover chicken salad to an airtight container.
- Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
The fresh ingredients, like celery and grapes, will retain their texture for this time frame.
Tips for Storing
If the salad seems dry after refrigeration, stir in a small amount of mayonnaise or lemon juice to refresh it before serving.
Avoid freezing chicken salad, as the mayonnaise can separate, and the texture of the celery or nuts may become unpleasant.
This old-fashioned homemade chicken salad recipe is a classic that never goes out of style. Using canned chicken makes it quick and convenient while still delivering incredible flavor. With the high-quality ingredients and proper making, you will have delicious chicken salad easily at home.
