Name: BEST Chicken Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise); ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (or to taste); ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste); ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste); 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped; ½ cup chopped celery; ½ cup chopped pecans (or walnuts or sliced almonds, toasted if desired); ½ cup quartered grapes; ¼ cup finely chopped red onion (optional); Bread, croissants, or lettuce (for serving)

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If you’re on the hunt for a fresh, flavorful, and irresistibly satisfying dish, then this BEST Chicken Salad Recipe is going to be your new go-to. It’s creamy yet light, packed with delightful bursts of crunch and sweetness from pecans and grapes, and perfectly seasoned to keep every bite exciting. Whether you’re whipping up a quick lunch or preparing something special for friends, this chicken salad combines simple ingredients into something truly memorable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl on a white marbled surface holds six distinct ingredient groups arranged side by side without mixing. Starting at the top, there is a light beige shredded chicken layer with a soft texture. To the right of the chicken, there are grape halves in a deep red-purple color with a shiny surface. Below the grapes, there is a collection of small, chopped red onions with a mix of purple and white pieces. Moving left, a creamy white layer of yogurt or mayo sits underneath a sprinkle of orange-yellow powder. To the left of that, there is a generous cluster of chopped brown pecans with rough, uneven edges. Finally, to the left, small diced pale green celery pieces topped with black pepper complete the arrangement. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward but perfectly balanced ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, offering a pleasing combination of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and savory elements that make this dish stand out.

½ cup plain Greek yogurt: A creamy, tangy base that’s healthier than mayonnaise but you can swap if preferred.
¼ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle depth of flavor without overpowering the dish.
¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances all the ingredients beautifully.
¼ teaspoon black pepper: Brings a mild kick that wakes up your palate.
2 cups cooked chicken: The star protein, shredded or chopped to your texture preference.
½ cup chopped celery: Offers a fresh, crisp crunch that contrasts the creamy dressing.
½ cup chopped pecans: Adds a nutty crunch; walnuts or sliced almonds work well too.
½ cup quartered grapes: A juicy, sweet surprise in every bite that elevates the salad.
¼ cup finely chopped red onion (optional): Provides a subtle sharpness and color contrast.
Bread, croissants or lettuce: For serving and making this salad a meal.

How to Make BEST Chicken Salad Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing Base

Start by combining the plain Greek yogurt, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Stir these together until smooth and creamy. This simple mix forms the flavorful foundation that binds the salad.

Step 2: Mix in the Main Ingredients

Add your cooked chicken, chopped celery, nuts, grapes, and red onion if you’re using it. Toss everything gently but thoroughly, making sure all elements are evenly coated with that creamy dressing.

Step 3: Taste and Adjust

Give your chicken salad a taste test and tweak the seasoning as needed. A pinch more salt or pepper can make a big difference, creating the perfect balance for your personal liking.

Step 4: Ready to Serve

Whether piled high in a sandwich, scooped over fresh lettuce, or wrapped up in a tortilla, your BEST Chicken Salad Recipe is ready to impress and satisfy.

How to Serve BEST Chicken Salad Recipe

The image shows a sandwich cut in half and stacked with two layers of whole grain bread. Between the bread layers, there is a thick filling made of shredded white chicken mixed with a creamy white dressing, pieces of red grapes, and small bits of green celery. The sandwich is placed on a round white plate with a side of dark purple grapes and a small bunch of green leafy salad. The background is a white marbled surface, and soft light highlights the textures of the bread and the creamy filling. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Add a touch of freshness with a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill. A few additional pecans on top give a welcoming crunch that invites you in.

Side Dishes

This chicken salad pairs wonderfully with light sides like crisp veggie sticks, a fresh fruit salad, or even a bowl of homemade soup for a heartier meal. Each side adds balance without competing with the salad’s flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the classic sandwich! Serve your chicken salad stuffed into avocado halves or hollowed-out tomatoes for a colorful, elegant presentation that’s perfect for entertaining or a special lunch treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld beautifully over time, making it perfect for make-ahead lunches or quick snacks.

Freezing

Due to the yogurt dressing and fresh ingredients, this salad doesn’t freeze well as it can separate and become watery. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated only.

Reheating

Since this chicken salad is served cold, reheating isn’t necessary. Just give it a quick stir before serving to bring back its creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use mayonnaise instead of Greek yogurt?

Absolutely! Mayonnaise will provide a richer and creamier texture, but Greek yogurt keeps it lighter and adds a nice tang. Feel free to choose what suits your taste.

What type of grapes work best?

Sweet, seedless grapes like red or green concords work wonderfully. They add just the right amount of juicy sweetness and a lovely pop in texture.

Can I prepare the chicken salad the night before?

Yes, making it ahead is a great idea. Just mix it up and store in the refrigerator overnight to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Are there any good substitutions for the nuts?

If you’re allergic or prefer no nuts, try crunchy seeds like pumpkin seeds or simply omit them. Sunflower seeds can also add a nice texture.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! The BEST Chicken Salad Recipe holds up well in the fridge, making it perfect for prepping lunches or quick dinners for busy days.

Final Thoughts

This BEST Chicken Salad Recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that’s easy to make and sure to become a household favorite. Give it a try and watch it become your secret weapon for quick, wholesome, and crowd-pleasing meals. Once you taste it, you’ll know exactly why it deserves the title of BEST.