How To Make Classic Chicken Salad

by

✅ Ingredients

For the Chicken

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts
  • 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 3 sprigs fresh thyme

For the Chicken Salad

  • 1½ cups chopped celery
  • 1 cup mayonnaise (high-quality mayo works best)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

🍳 How to Make Homemade Chicken Salad

1️⃣ Cook the Chicken

  1. Place the chicken breasts in a large pot.
  2. Add the chicken broth and thyme.
  3. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat.
  4. Cover and cook for about 45–60 minutes until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

2️⃣ Cool and Shred

  1. Remove the chicken from the broth and let it cool slightly.
  2. Remove the skin and bones.
  3. Shred or chop the chicken into small pieces, depending on your preferred texture.

3️⃣ Make the Dressing

In a large bowl, mix:

  • Mayonnaise
  • Lemon juice
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Stir until smooth and creamy.

4️⃣ Combine Everything

  1. Add the chopped chicken and celery to the bowl.
  2. Mix gently until the chicken is evenly coated.

5️⃣ Chill and Serve

  • Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
  • Serve on bread, croissants, crackers, or lettuce cups.

💡 Tips for the Best Chicken Salad

  • Chill overnight for deeper flavor.
  • Add grapes, nuts, or onions for extra taste and texture.
  • Use rotisserie chicken if you want a faster version.

🥪 How to Serve

  • Chicken salad sandwich
  • On toasted croissants
  • With crackers
  • Over lettuce as a light lunch
Pages: 1 2