Proper Good Chicken Salad Classic Comfort with a Chefs Touch

Q: How can I make my chicken salad extra special for a picnic or potluck? I want to impress the neighbours!

Presentation is key! Serve your chicken salad in hollowed-out tomatoes, avocados, or bell peppers for a fancy touch. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives for color. And don't forget the little things, like serving it with a selection of fancy crackers or crusty bread for a proper picnic spread!

Proper Good homemade chicken salads Classic Comfort Chefs Touch

By Diego HartSeptember 29, 2025

4.50 (8 Ratings)

Table of Contents

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Ever get that craving for something comforting yet fresh? I do! Let's dive into my homemade chicken salads , a timeless classic with a delightful twist.

This easy chicken salad recipe is about to become your go-to. Honestly, it's creamy, dreamy, and packed with flavour.

Brief Overview

The classic chicken salad recipe is a staple in many cultures. It’s great for sandwiches, light meals, or picnic snacks.

This version is super easy, taking about an hour from start to finish. You'll get enough for 4-6 servings.

Main Benefits

This healthy homemade chicken salad is packed with protein from the chicken and healthy fats. It's perfect for a quick lunch or a potluck.

What makes it special? The poached chicken salad preparation method guarantees incredibly tender and flavourful results.

Time to Gather Your Bits and Bobs

Right then, you'll need your ingredients. Think of it like this: quality in, quality out. So, grab the best chicken you can find. It makes all the difference.

Let's Get This Show on the Road!

First, we poach the chicken. Pop 1.5 lbs chicken breasts into a pan with 4 cups chicken broth. Chuck in a teaspoon of dried thyme, half a teaspoon of salt, and a quarter teaspoon of pepper.

Simmer until the internal temperature reaches 165° F/ 74° C. Don't overcook it! That's a cardinal sin.

From Chicken to Salad Sensation

Next, shred the chicken. While the chicken is cooling, whisk together the dressing. Mix 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and a pinch of celery salt.

Then, combine everything. Add 1/2 cup diced celery, 1/4 cup red onion, 1/4 cup grapes (optional), and 1/4 cup toasted pecans (if you fancy!).

The Final Flourish

Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and gently stir. Chill for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors to properly mingle.

Now, serve on your favorite bread for the best chicken salad for sandwiches ! A sprinkle of fresh parsley really makes it sing.

A Word About Variations

Feel free to mix it up! How about a chicken salad with grapes and nuts ? Or a curried version? The sky's the limit, innit? Enjoy your cracking creamy chicken salad recipe !

Ingredients & Equipment

Alright, let's get this show on the road. Making homemade chicken salads doesn't have to be a massive drama, honest. But having the right bits and bobs makes life so much easier.

Main Ingredients

Here's what you'll need to conjure up this classic chicken salad recipe . Measurements matter, mind you. I once eyeballed it and ended up with chicken soup, not salad. A proper ballsup!

Chicken: 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Go for good quality chicken. You can taste the difference, I swear! Ideally free range.
Broth: 4 cups (950ml) chicken broth (low sodium, yeah?).
Thyme: 1 teaspoon (5ml) dried thyme
Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml)
Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml)
Mayonnaise: 1/2 cup (115g) full fat or light. Use real mayo, not that weird low-fat stuff.
Mustard: 2 tablespoons (30ml) Dijon mustard, the proper stuff.
Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon (15ml) freshly squeezed. Bottled juice is a bit naff.
Celery Salt: 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml)
Cayenne Pepper: A tiny pinch (optional). If you like a bit of oomph .
Celery: 1/2 cup (70g) finely diced
Red Onion: 1/4 cup (30g) finely diced, gives a sharp kick.
Grapes: 1/4 cup (40g) halved or quartered. Adds a burst of sweetness. Chicken salad with grapes and nuts is a winner, truly.
Nuts: 1/4 cup (35g) toasted pecans or walnuts, chopped (optional). Crunch is key.
Parsley: 2 tablespoons (15g) fresh, chopped. Sprig of freshness to your best chicken salad for sandwiches .

Seasoning Notes

The right seasoning can make or break a dish. Honestly! It's the difference between bland and brilliant, innit?

Essential spice combination : Thyme, celery salt, and a touch of pepper. Classic!
Flavor enhancers and aromatics: A squeeze of lemon brightens everything up. Dijon mustard adds a lovely tang. This is how you make a proper creamy chicken salad recipe .
Quick substitution options: Don't have celery salt? A pinch of regular salt and a tiny bit of celery seed will do.

Equipment Needed

Right, onto the gear. Keep it simple, yeah? You don't need a spaceship to make easy chicken salad recipe .

Large saucepan : For poached chicken salad .
Cutting board : For chopping all the veggies.
Sharp knife : A blunt knife is more dangerous, remember!
Mixing bowl : The bigger, the better.
Whisk : For the dressing.

Now, sometimes kitchen kit goes missing, right? No stress! Use whatever you got!

Saucepan Alternative : Any pot big enough for the chicken.
Whisk Substitute : A fork works in a pinch.

This recipe's a belter for creating different chicken salad variations . You could try a gourmet chicken salad ideas or keep it simple with healthy homemade chicken salad .

Have a play around!

Cooking Method: Cracking Good Homemade Chicken Salad

Right then, fancy a bit of Proper Good Chicken Salad: Classic Comfort with a Chef's Touch ? Honestly, this easy chicken salad recipe is a game changer.

It's not your average classic chicken salad recipe ! This is the best chicken salad for sandwiches or a fancy lunch.

Let's get started!

Prep Like a Pro

First things first, get your mise en place sorted. That's chef speak for "get your stuff together"! Chop your celery, red onion and parsley.

Halve the grapes. Get that mayo, mustard, and lemon juice ready to rock. To save time, you can even poach the chicken the day before.

Honestly, if you're after gourmet chicken salad ideas then you'll want the ingredients prepped and ready to go.

Let's Get Cooking!

Poach Chicken: Add chicken, thyme, salt, pepper and chicken broth into a saucepan. Simmer until it reaches 165° F/ 74° C .
Cool and Shred: Let it cool a bit. Then shred the chicken with forks.
Make the Creamy Dressing: Whisk together mayo, mustard, lemon juice, celery salt, and cayenne. You know? To create the creamy chicken salad recipe dressing.
Combine Awesomeness: Mix the chicken, celery, red onion, grapes, and nuts.
Dress It Up: Pour dressing over and gently stir.
Chill and Enjoy: Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes . This helps flavors meld!

Pro Tips for Brilliant Chicken Salad

Want to take your poached chicken salad to the next level? Toast your pecans or walnuts at 350° F/ 175° C for 5- 7 minutes .

It brings out the flavor. Avoid overcooking the chicken! It will become dry. If you're thinking about chicken salad variations , curry powder is your best friend.

It can transform it into a Curry Chicken Salad ! Why not try chicken salad with grapes and nuts ? Honestly, it's fab.

This healthy homemade chicken salad is great for lunch. Make a chicken salad sandwich recipe , or enjoy it on crackers. Either way, you're in for a treat!

Recipe Notes: Chicken Salad Secrets & Swaps

Right then, let’s get down to the nitty gritty of this proper good chicken salad recipe . It's more than just chucking ingredients together.

It’s about layering flavours, and textures, and making something truly special. Think of it as your secret weapon for lunchtimes! I have perfected this easy chicken salad recipe over years.

Getting Your Serve On: Plating & Pals

Honestly, the way you serve this creamy chicken salad recipe can make all the difference.

Plating Pretty: Skip the plain bowl. Spoon your homemade chicken salads onto a bed of crisp lettuce leaves. Garnish with an extra sprinkle of parsley or a few halved grapes.
It looks proper fancy!
Sidekicks: Crunchy crisps are always a win. A light soup (like tomato) works wonders too. For drinks, I like a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio, because it cuts through the richness.

Storing Like a Pro: Keepin’ it Fresh

So, you've made a big batch? Ace!

Fridge Rules: Keep your classic chicken salad recipe in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s good for 3-4 days , tops. Don’t risk it after that.
Freezing? Not Ideal: Honestly, freezing poached chicken salad messes with the texture. It’ll get a bit watery, and no one wants that.
Reheat? Nah! This is a cold salad, innit? Just grab it straight from the fridge.

Remix Time: Chicken Salad Variations

Fancy a change? I got you covered!

Curry Kick: For a taste of adventure, add 1-2 teaspoons of curry powder. Raisins and mango chutney are lush additions too. This would make the best chicken salad for sandwiches ever.
Healthy Homemade Chicken Salad Tip: Swapping full fat mayo for Greek yogurt? It's a great way to lighten things up. Add a touch of lemon juice to keep it zesty.
Seasonal Swap: During autumn, replace grapes with dried cranberries and toasted pumpkin seeds! Boom! Gourmet chicken salad ideas can be that simple.

Bits of Nutritional Knowledge

Alright, so here's the lowdown. One serving of this chicken salad with grapes and nuts (based on 6 servings) gives you about:

Calories: 350-400 (roughly)
Loads of protein
Some fats (mostly from the mayo and nuts)

Remember, these are just estimates.

Right then, go forth and create some amazing chicken salad sandwich recipe ! You've got this. Don’t overthink it. And most importantly, have a laugh!

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does homemade chicken salads last in the fridge? I don't want to end up with a dodgy tummy!

Homemade chicken salad is best enjoyed within 3-4 days when stored properly in the refrigerator. Be sure to keep it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out or absorbing any funky fridge odors. If it starts to smell or look a bit off, best to chuck it safety first!

Can I freeze chicken salad? I'm trying to meal prep like a boss!

Freezing chicken salad isn't generally recommended. The mayonnaise can separate and become watery when thawed, messing with the texture and making it a bit gloopy. If you're determined, use a mayonnaise made with olive oil, as it tends to freeze better.

It's always best to make it fresh for the best flavour and texture, though!

What are some good variations I can make to my homemade chicken salads? I'm getting a bit bored with the same old recipe.

Absolutely! Why not try a curry chicken salad with a teaspoon or two of curry powder and some raisins? Or go Greek with cucumber, olives, and feta. You could even add a bit of heat with some chopped jalapenos. Don't be afraid to experiment the possibilities are endless!

Help! My homemade chicken salad is too watery. How do I fix it?

No worries, we've all been there! First, drain off any excess liquid that's pooled in the bowl. You can add more solid ingredients like chopped celery, nuts, or hard boiled eggs to soak up the moisture. A spoonful of plain Greek yogurt can also help thicken it up without adding extra mayonnaise.

Is there a healthier alternative to mayonnaise I can use in my homemade chicken salads? I'm trying to be a bit more health conscious.

Definitely! Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute. It has a similar tanginess and creaminess but with fewer calories and more protein. You could also try using avocado for a creamy texture and healthy fats, or a blend of mayonnaise and Greek yogurt to reduce the overall fat content.

How can I make my chicken salad extra special for a picnic or potluck? I want to impress the neighbours!

Presentation is key! Serve your chicken salad in hollowed out tomatoes, avocados, or bell peppers for a fancy touch. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives for color. And don't forget the little things, like serving it with a selection of fancy crackers or crusty bread for a proper picnic spread!