Sometimes I just want a really good, uncomplicated chicken salad. The only problem with most classics? They’re loaded to the brim with mayo upon mayo, leaving you with a gloopy mound of chicken that looks more like a bowl of mush than a salad. No thank you…

Enter a chicken salad that gives you all the nostalgic, classic vibes with just the right amount of creaminess from mayo, but also with a bright tang from fresh lemon juice and a little Dijon mustard, and plenty of fresh goodies for the perfect crunch.

This chicken salad is far from boring or bland. Spoon it onto a buttery croissant, tuck it into a crisp lettuce wrap, or skip the extras entirely and go straight in — you and the spoon, doing what needs to be done.

Looking for a different spin on the classic? My Curry Chicken Salad brings a whole new flavor profile that won’t disappoint!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Salad

Make it in 30 minutes or less!
Creamy but not gloopy
Tangy, with the perfect crunch
Make ahead perfection
Customizable

Ingredients

Who doesn’t love an easy, classic chicken salad! Here are the ingredients you’ll need:

Cooked, shredded chicken – Shredded rotisserie chicken is super easy and flavorful, absorbing all of the flavors we’ll add. Feel free to use cubed pieces of Baked Chicken Breast if preferred.
Celery – celery adds crunch and freshness. Have cucumber on-hand instead? Feel free to use it!
Red grapes – adding a touch of sweet juiciness, red grapes are traditional in chicken salad for a reason! Prefer apples or golden raisins? Those are delicious too.
Red onion – for crunch and sharpness that cuts through the mayo, red onion is your best friend.
Mayonnaise – use good-quality mayo like Hellman’s for the best chicken salad (this is not an ad!).
Lemon juice – adding vibrancy and citrusy acidity that cuts the richness of the mayo, fresh lemon juice is the perfect addition.
Fresh chives – fresh chives add a mild oniony pop of green.
Fresh tarragon – fresh tarragon has a sweet anise flavor that gives this chicken salad a classic French bistro feel. Tarragon and chicken = a dream combo!
Dijon mustard – Dijon adds a touch of tangy depth.

Variations

There are lots of different ways to change up traditional chicken salad. Here are some of my favorites:

Use Greek yogurt: 50/50 yogurt and mayo is a great way of adding more protein!
Add nuts: chopped pecans, walnuts, almonds or cashews are great in here.
Add pickles: for my pickle people, add chopped pickles and a small splash of pickle juice to the dressing.
Add cheese: try chunks of cheddar or parmesan, or crumbled blue cheese.
Add eggs: chop up a few Hard Boiled Eggs and toss them in!
Change up the fruit: apple chunks, golden raisins, dried cranberries, apricots or pomegranate seeds all work well.
Change up the herbs: don’t like tarragon? Use fresh dill or parsley.
Make it spicy: add a splash of hot sauce or dollop of horseradish to the dressing.
Curry Chicken Salad

How to Make Chicken Salad

Let’s make amazing chicken salad in just 3 steps! For the full recipe, see the recipe card below.

Chicken salad dressing being mixed in a black bowl

Make the dressing: Combine the mayonnaise, lemon juice, mustard, and salt and pepper.

Ingredients for chicken salad being mixed in a large white bowl

Toss the salad: In a separate large bowl, mix together chicken, celery, grapes, onion, chives, and tarragon.

Close up of chicken salad in a blue and white bowl garnished with lemon wedge

Combine: Pour the dressing over the chicken salad and toss well. Enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

As a sandwich: on a croissant, brioche bun, toast, wrap, or Homemade Baguette with lettuce and/or tomato.
As lettuce cups: scooped into butter lettuce, romaine, or endive leaves for a light lunch or appetizer.
Stuffed into avocado halves: for a creamy, healthier bite.
On crackers, Homemade Crostini, or cucumber rounds: as an appetizer or lunch.
Over a salad: top on a bed of greens as a protein.

Chicken salad sandwich on a baguette next to tomatoes — Chicken salad sandwich on a baguette

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

For best results, make this chicken salad a day ahead to let the flavor meld together. It’s also delicious served right away or made up to 3 days in advance. Store in an airtight container in the fridge, and stir before serving!

Freezing is not recommended.