This Easy Classic Carol Chicken Salad is a winner! It’s filled with juicy chicken, crunchy celery, and sweet grapes all mixed together with creamy mayo. Perfect for a light lunch!
What I love most is how simple it is to make. Just chop, mix, and serve! It’s a great way to use up leftover chicken, and it tastes fantastic in a sandwich or on a bed of greens.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is my go-to for this salad. It’s tender and packed with flavor. If you don’t have rotisserie chicken, grilled or poached chicken works too. Just ensure it’s cooled and shredded nicely!
Mayonnaise: For creaminess, mayonnaise is essential. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try Greek yogurt or an avocado mash. Just be aware it will change the flavor slightly!
Celery: This adds a nice crunch. If you’re not a fan, you can swap it with diced apples or cucumbers for some freshness. Just adjust the amount to your taste.
Lemon Juice: This gives brightness to balance the richness. If you’re out of lemon, a splash of vinegar works too, like apple cider or white vinegar.
How Do You Keep Chicken Salad From Getting Watery?
To keep your chicken salad thick and creamy, ensuring moisture control is key. Start by properly draining any excess liquid from the chicken, especially if using canned or frozen. Here are some tips:
- Use a paper towel to pat down cooked chicken if it’s too moist.
- Add mayo gradually, mixing until you reach desired creaminess.
- Chill the salad in the fridge for a while; this helps the flavors meld and keeps it cohesive.
These steps will help you create a chicken salad that’s full of flavor and perfect texture. Enjoy your meal!
Easy Classic Carol Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, finely shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper, or to taste
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped green onions or sweet grapes, halved (for a hint of sweetness)
- Crackers or bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then at least 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, you’re looking at about 40 minutes total before it’s ready to serve. Perfect for making ahead for lunch or a light dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Chicken and Celery:
In a large bowl, add the shredded cooked chicken and finely chopped celery. Mix them together, so the chicken is well distributed with the celery. This gives the salad a nice crunch!
2. Mix in Dressing:
Add the mayonnaise and lemon juice to the bowl. Stir everything together until the chicken and celery are well coated. It should look creamy and delicious by now!
3. Season to Taste:
Sprinkle in the salt and black pepper. Give it a good stir again. Don’t forget to taste your chicken salad! You might want to add a little more salt or pepper to suit your own taste.
4. Optional Additions:
If you’re using, gently fold in the chopped green onions or halved grapes. This step adds a lovely flavor and texture difference!
5. Chill It Out:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This helps all the flavors mix and improves the overall taste of the salad.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to eat, serve the chilled chicken salad on crackers or your favorite bread. Enjoy this creamy and delightful dish as a light meal or appetizer!
This classic chicken salad is not only easy to make but also irresistible. Perfect for picnics, lunches, or as a comforting snack. Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Classic Carol Chicken Salad
Can I Use Leftover Chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken works perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure it’s shredded into small pieces for the best texture.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Chicken Salad?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh, avoid letting it sit out at room temperature for too long.
What if I Don’t Like Mayonnaise?
No problem! You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or mashed avocado for a healthier twist. It will change the flavor slightly, but still taste delicious!
Can I Add Other Ingredients or Veggies?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your chicken salad. You can add ingredients like diced apples, walnuts, or even different herbs for extra flavor and crunch. Just adjust the quantity based on your preference!
