Description
This classic creamy chicken salad is a simple, flavorful lunchtime staple combining tender chicken, mayonnaise, crisp celery, and seasoning for a satisfying mix of textures and taste. Perfect for meal prepping or quick meals.
Ingredients
2 cups shredded or diced cooked chicken
1/2 cup mayonnaise, full-fat
2 stalks finely chopped celery
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
Shred or chop chilled cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Chill in refrigerator at least 30 minutes for optimal firm texture.
Combine mayonnaise, chopped celery, salt, and pepper in a large bowl using a rubber spatula. Blend until fully incorporated.
Fold in chilled chicken until evenly coated. Adjust seasoning by adding 1/2 tsp more salt or 1/4 tsp pepper if needed.
Refrigerate for 20 minutes to let flavors meld before serving on bread, lettuce wraps, or as standalone meatballs.
Notes
Chill chicken for 1 hour before mixing to prevent a soggy texture.
Use a wire whisk to eliminate runny pockets in the mayonnaise base.
Portion in 1-cup servings for lunchbox storage.
For a low-carb version, swap celery with finely chopped cauliflower.
Add 2 tbsp Greek yogurt alongside mayonnaise for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 575mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 0.5g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 140mg