There’s something so satisfying about a classic chicken salad, isn’t there? It’s one of those timeless dishes that never goes out of style. Whether you’re packing it for lunch, serving it at a picnic, or enjoying it as a quick dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make! Today, I’m sharing my secrets for the best classic chicken salad recipe that’s perfect for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—ready in just 15 minutes!
- Perfect for meal prep or quick family dinners.
- Customizable to your taste preferences.
- Great for sandwiches, wraps, or even as a topping for a fresh green salad.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious classic chicken salad:
- 2 cups Chicken, cooked and shredded
- 1 cup+ Mayonnaise
- 2 Tbsp+ Sweet Pickle Relish
- 3 Stalks of Celery, finely diced
- 1 Onion, finely diced
- Salt and Pepper, to taste
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Let’s walk through the steps to make this easy chicken salad recipe:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken, celery, onion, relish, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper.
- Taste for seasoning and make any adjustments you like.
- Cover the bowl and chill for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
- When ready to serve, give it a good stir and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Here are a few tips to ensure your chicken salad turns out perfectly every time:
- Use high-quality ingredients, especially the mayonnaise, as it makes a big difference in the flavor.
- Don’t overmix the salad; you want to maintain some texture from the chicken and vegetables.
- Letting it chill for at least an hour allows the flavors to develop and the salad to become creamier.
How to Serve
One of the best things about this chicken salad is its versatility. Here are a few ways to serve it:
- Serve it on a bed of fresh greens for a light and healthy meal.
- Use it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.
- Enjoy it as a topping for crackers or toast points.
- Pair it with a side of easy pasta recipes for a well-rounded meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
This chicken salad is perfect for meal prep. You can make it up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. It’s also a great option for 30-minute meals when you need something quick and delicious.
There you have it—my go-to classic chicken salad recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. It’s perfect for quick family dinners or even as a tasty addition to your weeknight dinner ideas. Give it a try and let me know how you customize it to make it your own!

Classic Chicken Salad Recipe: A Timeless Delight
Ingredients
- 2 cups Chicken, cooked and shredded
- 1 cup Mayonnaise +
- 2 Tbsp Sweet Pickle Relish +
- 3 stalks Celery, finely diced
- 1 medium Onion, finely diced
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken, celery, onion, relish, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper.
- Taste for seasoning and make any adjustments you like.
- Cover the bowl and chill for at least 1 hour.
- Serve and enjoy!