Deluxe Chicken Salad
A creamy, flavorful chicken salad with crunchy celery and a tangy lemon mayonnaise dressing, perfect for light lunches, picnics, or a quick dinner option.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine diced cooked chicken, diced celery, salt, and pepper; stir well.
- Combine mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, and minced onion.
- Add the dressing to the chicken mixture and toss lightly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more mayonnaise or sour cream. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a healthier twist. If you want to add crunch, throw in some chopped nuts or grapes. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can enhance the flavor as well, making this recipe a versatile option among chicken recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This deluxe chicken salad is perfect for a light lunch or a picnic. Serve it on a croissant or with crackers for a delightful snack. Pair it with a side of fresh fruit or a light vegetable salad for a refreshing meal. For a heartier option, it complements dishes like Chicken, Rice And Almond Casserole beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you're planning to reheat it, consider enjoying it cold or at room temperature, as reheating may affect the texture of the mayonnaise. Serve it on a fresh bed of greens for a delightful lunch.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Deluxe Chicken Salad contains roughly 160 calories, with 5g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 785mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).
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 leftover rotisserie chicken for this salad?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds extra flavor to your salad. Just make sure to shred or dice it before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Is there a way to make this chicken salad healthier?
Yes, you can substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or use a light mayonnaise to reduce calories. Adding more vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers can also boost the nutritional value while keeping it delicious.
How can I make this chicken salad more filling?
To make the salad more filling, consider adding whole grains like quinoa or brown rice. You can also include diced avocado or hard-boiled eggs for added protein and healthy fats, making it a more complete meal.
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).