Lunch

Chicken Salad

Name: Chicken Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1.5 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts; 1 tsp salt (for poaching water); 1 small onion, halved; 2 bay leaves; 0.75 cup mayonnaise; 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice; 0.5 tsp salt (for salad); 0.25 tsp black pepper; 0.25 tsp garlic powder; 2 stalks celery, finely diced; 0.25 cup fresh tarragon, finely chopped; 0.25 cup fresh dill, finely chopped; 2 tbsp red onion, finely minced; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; bread or crackers for serving

Classic mayonnaise-based chicken salad with tender poached chicken, crisp celery, fresh herbs and a touch of sweetness. Served chilled as a sandwich filling, on greens, or with crackers—the timeless lunchtime standard.

527calper serving 38gprotein 8gcarbs 37gfat 15min prep 20min cook 4serves

✓ Macros from a nutrition database · per serving · developed by The Delicious Kitchen with AI assistance, not independently kitchen-tested · how we calculate this

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Chicken Salad — common questions

Can I make chicken salad a day ahead?

Yes, it actually tastes better when made 24 hours ahead. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; the flavors meld and deepen.

What if I don't have tarragon or dill?

Use 0.5 cup fresh parsley, or combine parsley with fresh chives or mint. Fresh herbs are key to the flavor, so avoid dried herbs if possible, but if necessary use 1 tbsp dried tarragon plus 1 tbsp dried dill as a substitute.

How do I prevent the chicken salad from being too watery?

Ensure the cooked chicken is completely cooled and pat it dry before shredding; do not add the poaching liquid to the salad. If it becomes watery overnight, drain excess liquid before serving.

Can I make this with a rotisserie chicken?

Yes, shred 1 whole store-bought rotisserie chicken (about 1.5 lb meat) and proceed with the recipe. The result will be slightly saltier, so taste before adding the 0.5 tsp salt to the mayo mixture.

What is the best way to serve chicken salad?

Serve on soft bread (brioche or sourdough), on a bed of mixed greens with vegetables, with water crackers, or on sliced tomatoes and lettuce as a light meal.

Can I freeze chicken salad?

Freezing is not recommended because the mayonnaise separates upon thawing and the texture becomes grainy. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days instead.