Best Chicken Salad In The World

Prep: 15 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

A creamy, flavorful chicken salad with grapes, almonds, and a hint of lemon and ginger, perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner, appealing to all tastes.

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Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon lemon rind
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups chopped cooked chicken
  • 1 cup seedless grapes
  • 1 cup chopped celery
  • 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted

Instructions

  1. Mix the mayonnaise, sour cream, sugar, lemon rind, lemon juice, ginger, and salt in a bowl.
  2. Add the chopped cooked chicken, grapes, celery, and toasted sliced almonds to the mixture.
  3. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
  4. Chill in the refrigerator before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for half of the mayonnaise. You can also add chopped apples or dried cranberries for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a bit of crunch, try adding some chopped walnuts or pecans. Adjust the sweetness by varying the sugar according to your taste. This salad can be served on a bed of lettuce for a refreshing presentation.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this chicken salad on a croissant or sandwich bread for a delightful lunch. Pair it with a light side like a garden salad or some vegetable sticks for a balanced meal. It also pairs beautifully with Brian Bentley's Savory Spinach And Rice Soup for a comforting dinner option.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day. Avoid freezing as the texture may change. To refresh the chicken salad, you can stir in a little extra mayonnaise or yogurt before serving.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Best Chicken Salad In The World contains roughly 1239 calories, with 17g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 124g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (34% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2568mg per serving (112% of the Daily Value).

1239 kcal 62% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 17g 34% DV
Total Fat 124g 100% DV
Carbs 24.5g 9% DV
Fiber 8.3g 30% DV
Sugar 4.2g 8% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2568.3mg 100% DV
Potassium 596.1mg 13% DV
Cholesterol 18.6mg 6% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 22.5mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 5.6mg 6% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 218.6mg 17% DV
Iron 2.8mg 16% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
Contains Milk Egg Tree nuts

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?

Yes, canned chicken can be a quick alternative, but ensure to drain it well and shred it before mixing. The flavor may differ slightly, so consider adding extra seasoning to enhance the taste. Freshly cooked chicken generally provides better texture and flavor, but canned is convenient for busy days.

How can I make this salad spicier?

To add some heat, consider mixing in a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce into the dressing. You can also add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of black pepper for an extra kick. Just be mindful of the balance with the other flavors in the salad.

What are some good sides to serve with chicken salad?

Good sides include crispy potato chips, pickles, or a fresh fruit salad. You can also serve it alongside some crunchy vegetable sticks for a healthy crunch. For a more filling meal, consider serving it with a small bowl of soup, such as Creamy Cheesy Broccoli Soup, to complement the flavors.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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