Basic Chicken Salad Recipe

This family-favorite chicken salad recipe is quick, easy, and incredibly delicious! Made with tender chicken, crunchy almonds, and a zesty lemon-mayo dressing, it's perfect for sandwiches, crackers, or as a light lunch. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet satisfying recipe.

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 10 mins
Calories 528.1 kcal
Protein 92g
Rating 4.8 (17 Reviews)
Basic Chicken Salad

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Basic Chicken Salad

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • Ground Black Pepper
  • Cooked Chicken
  • Blanched Slivered Almond
  • 1/4 cup chopped celery
  • Purple Onion
  • Sweet Gherkins
  • Hard Boiled Egg

How to Make Basic Chicken Salad

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Spread 1/2 cup sliced almonds on a baking sheet.
  3. Toast for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly golden brown, shaking the pan halfway through. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
  4. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
  5. Add 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced), 1/2 cup toasted almonds, 1/4 cup chopped red onion, 1/2 cup chopped sweet pickles, 1/4 cup chopped celery, and 1/4 cup chopped hard-boiled egg to the bowl.
  6. Gently toss to combine all ingredients.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed (add salt if desired).
  8. Serve on crackers, in lettuce cups, or as a sandwich with your favorite bread and toppings.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Chef's secret: layers of flavor make a dish truly memorable! Consider what a little extra something could bring – perhaps a touch of acidity like a good vinegar or citrus zest, a hint of smokiness from paprika, a bit of umami from mushrooms or soy sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for texture. Experiment and taste as you go!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

13 g

Sugar

38g

Fat

24g

Carbs

5g

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