Imagine a chicken salad so deliciously simple yet incredibly satisfying that it becomes an instant family favorite. This isn't just another chicken salad recipe - it's a treasured family secret passed down through generations, promising to transform your ordinary lunch into an extraordinary culinary experience. Packed with juicy chicken, sweet grapes, and crisp celery, this recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food that will have everyone asking, "What's your secret?"
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup celery, diced
- 1/4 cup grapes, halved
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, place the shredded cooked chicken. Ensure the chicken is cooled to room temperature if freshly cooked.
- Dice the celery into small, uniform pieces approximately 1/4 inch in size to provide a crisp texture to the salad.
- Carefully slice the grapes in half, removing any seeds if present, to distribute them evenly throughout the salad.
- Add the mayonnaise to the chicken, using a spatula or large spoon to mix thoroughly, ensuring the chicken is completely coated.
- Incorporate the diced celery and halved grapes into the chicken and mayonnaise mixture, gently folding to distribute ingredients evenly.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the salad to add brightness and help prevent the chicken from browning.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, starting with a small amount and adjusting according to preference.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Before serving, give the salad a gentle stir and taste, adjusting seasoning if needed.
- Serve chilled on a bed of lettuce, in a sandwich, or with crackers as desired.
Tips
- Use leftover roasted or grilled chicken for maximum flavor depth. Freshly cooked and cooled chicken works best.
- Dice celery uniformly to ensure consistent crunch in every bite.
- Choose seedless grapes for easier preparation and a smoother texture.
- Let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and intensify.
- For extra richness, consider using Greek yogurt mixed with mayonnaise.
- Adjust seasoning gradually - you can always add more, but can't take away.
- For a gourmet touch, add chopped fresh herbs like dill or chives.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 272kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 16g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 41mg
