This Classic Carol Chicken Salad is a tasty dish made with juicy chicken, crunchy celery, and sweet grapes. It’s mixed together with creamy mayo for a perfect balance!
It’s great as a sandwich filling or just on its own! I love sneaking in extra grapes for that fruity twist. Who can say no to tasty treats? 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is a big time-saver, but any cooked chicken works well. Leftover chicken breasts or thighs can also be used. If you’re vegetarian, consider substituting cooked chickpeas or tofu for protein.
Mayonnaise: Mayo adds creaminess, but you can use light mayo or avocado mayo for a healthier twist. If you’re dairy-free, opt for a vegan mayo. I often mix in a bit extra Greek yogurt for flavor and richness.
Greek Yogurt: This is optional but adds a nice tang. You can swap it with sour cream or leave it out if you prefer a lighter texture. I like using the yogurt for an extra protein boost.
Cely and Grapes: Celery gives a nice crunch, and grapes add sweetness. If you don’t have grapes, diced apples or dried cranberries can work well too. Experiment a bit with different fruits to find what you love!
Nuts: Almonds or walnuts add crunch, but feel free to skip them if there are allergies. Sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can be a great nut-free option, bringing similar texture.
How Do I Combine Ingredients for the Best Flavor?
Mixing the ingredients properly ensures a well-blended salad. Start with the chicken, mayo, and Greek yogurt in a large bowl. Use a spatula to combine these first. This creates a creamy base.
- Once that’s smooth, gently fold in celery, grapes, and nuts. This prevents the chicken from breaking down too much.
- For the mustard and lemon juice, add them after the veggies; this keeps the flavors fresh and bright.
- Taste the mixture before refrigerating. You may want more salt, pepper, or lemon juice based on your preferences.
Chilling the salad lets the flavors deepen, so don’t rush this step!
How to Make Classic Carol Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (you can use rotisserie chicken)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (optional for added creaminess)
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red grapes, halved (optional for sweetness)
- 1/4 cup almonds or walnuts, chopped (optional for crunch)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Crackers or lettuce leaves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and at least 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. So in total, you need about 40 minutes to make this delightful chicken salad!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Base Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, start by adding the shredded chicken, mayonnaise, and Greek yogurt (if you’re using it). Mix everything together well until it’s nicely combined and creamy. This forms the base of your chicken salad!
2. Add the Crunch and Sweetness:
Next, add the finely chopped celery, halved grapes, and the chopped nuts if you’re including them. Gently stir everything together to make sure that the celery adds its crunch and the grapes bring a hint of sweetness to the mix.
3. Season the Salad:
Now it’s time to punch up the flavors! Stir in the Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and sprinkle in some salt and pepper. Taste your salad and adjust the seasoning if needed to make it just right for you!
4. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl and place the chicken salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will help all the flavors come together beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, enjoy it on a plate or in a bowl with some crackers, or spoon it onto fresh lettuce leaves for a refreshing option.
Enjoy your Classic Carol Chicken Salad!
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! While rotisserie chicken is convenient and flavorful, you can use any cooked chicken you have on hand, like grilled, baked, or poached chicken. Just make sure it’s shredded or chopped into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing.
Can I Substitute the Mayonnaise?
Yes, if you’re looking for a healthier option or have dietary preferences, you can substitute mayonnaise with additional Greek yogurt, avocado, or a vegan mayo. Each option will slightly change the flavor and texture, but they’ll all work well in this salad!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Chicken Salad?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just keep in mind that the texture of the ingredients may change slightly, especially if you added fresh fruit or nuts. Stir before serving!
Can I Make This Salad Without Nuts or Grapes?
Definitely! If you or someone you’re serving has allergies, feel free to omit the nuts entirely. You can also replace grapes with diced apples or omit the sweet element altogether for a more savory salad. Adjust the other ingredients to balance flavors to your liking!
