Dive into the ultimate Classic Chicken Salad recipe that’s as simple as it is delicious. This recipe, inspired by a cherished cafe classic, combines the perfect blend of flavors and textures. Ideal for lunch or dinner, this salad combines tender chicken, crisp celery, and sweet pineapple for a taste that’s sure to please.

chicken salad served on a croissant with fresh berries.

This is a recipe I’ve been wanting to share for a while. When it comes to chicken salad, this is a pretty traditional/basic recipe, but that doesn’t mean it’s not one of my favorites. In my opinion, the combination of textures and flavors is perfect. Everything works together beautifully. This recipe is also versatile because you can personalize it with your favorite additions such as grapes, nuts, etc.

Many years ago, when I was a teenager, I worked at a small cafe (I’ve shared a few recipes from there, including Macaroni Salad, Cream Puff Cake, Cinnamon and Sugar Cake, and more). This Classic Chicken Salad was their go-to recipe. I haven’t had it in a few years, so I was excited to make it again and then enjoy it for lunch over the next few days. So good!

Whether you’re whipping it up for a quick lunch, a delightful dinner, or a special gathering like a baby or bridal shower, this recipe is a winner.

two chicken salad sandwiches served on places with fresh berries.

TABLE OF CONTENTS hide

1 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

2 Ingredients

3 How To Make

4 Recipe Variations

5 Frequently Asked Questions

6 More Chicken Based Recipes You Will Love

7 Classic Chicken Salad

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Classic Chicken Salad recipe proves that simplicity never goes out of style. With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward instructions, it’s foolproof for both beginners and seasoned cooks alike.
The combination of creamy dressing, tender chicken, crisp celery, and sweet pineapple creates a symphony of textures and flavors in every bite. It’s a true celebration of what makes chicken salad so beloved.
Whether you’re craving a hearty sandwich or a light, low-carb meal, this Classic Chicken Salad has got you covered. Plus, it’s a fantastic base for experimenting with your favorite add-ins such as grapes, nuts, vegetables, etc. (I’ve shared a few recipe variations below.)
Perfect for meal prep, this chicken salad tastes even better as the flavors meld together in the fridge. It’s the gift that keeps on giving, making your lunchtime a breeze for the next few days.

And with that, we’re ready to get started. So, grab your apron, and let’s whip up this Classic Chicken Salad recipe.

chicken salad sandwich on a plate with berries.

Ingredients

Before we dive into crafting this Classic Chicken Salad, let’s gather all the ingredients and tools you’ll need.

Chicken Breasts: You can cook these with whatever method you like. I typically just roast them in the oven with a little olive oil and salt and pepper.
Miracle Whip (or Mayonnaise): Whether you’re “team Miracle Whip” for that tangy kick or a “mayonnaise lover” for its creamy texture, either works great. I opted for Miracle Whip. If you choose mayonnaise and crave a hint of sweetness, a dash of honey or sugar will do the trick.
Fresh Lemon Juice: This adds a burst of freshness and zing; it brightens the salad and complements the creamy dressing beautifully.
Salt: We’ll use just a pinch to enhance the wonderful flavors of our ingredients, making them sing in harmony.
Ground Black Pepper: A little pepper goes a long way to add depth and a slight kick, balancing the sweetness and creaminess of the salad.
Celery: For that essential crunch and freshness, finely diced celery is a non-negotiable. It’s what gives our chicken salad its delightful texture contrast.
Canned Pineapple (or Fresh): The sweetness of pineapple adds a tropical twist and pairs wonderfully with the savory chicken and crisp celery. Feel free to use fresh if you prefer, but canned pineapple is my go-to for convenience and consistent sweetness.

With the ingredients gathered, we’re ready to put this Classic Chicken Salad together!

chicken salad on a croissant on plate with fruit.

How To Make

I’m going to walk you through the basic assembly steps for this chicken salad below. I’ve also provided a full ingredient list and detailed instructions in the printable recipe card below.

Begin by cooking the chicken breasts. You can either bake, grill, or boil them. Once cooked, allow them to cool. After cooling, cut the chicken into small, bite-sized cubes. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, combine Miracle Whip (or mayonnaise), fresh lemon juice, salt and pepper. Use a whisk or a fork to mix these ingredients until they are well combined and smooth. Add the celery and pineapple. Stir these into the dressing until they are evenly distributed.

ingredients for chicken salad unmixed and in a bowl.

Add the cubed chicken to the bowl with the dressing and other ingredients. Fold the chicken gently into the mixture. Avoid overmixing to keep the chicken and pineapple pieces intact.
Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate the chicken salad for at least one hour.

mixed chicken salad in a bowl with a spatula.

Once chilled, give the salad a gentle stir to refresh the ingredients. Serve the Classic Chicken Salad on soft rolls or flaky croissants for a delightful sandwich. Alternatively, it can be served over a bed of greens for a low-carb option.
Store any leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within two to three days for optimal freshness.

And that’s it. Now you know how to make my favorite chicken salad recipe. I’m certain you’re going to enjoy it as much as I do!

chicken salad sandwich served with fruit on a plate.

Recipe Variations

Want more options? You’ve got it! Here are a few recipe variations. Each offers a unique twist on this classic recipe allowing you to customize your chicken salad to suit your mood, taste, or celebration!

Add a Crunch: Toss in some chopped walnuts or slivered almonds for that satisfying crunch. It’s a simple addition that brings a whole new dimension to your dish.
Fruitful Delights: While pineapple gives this salad its signature sweet note, feel free to experiment with other fruits. Some wonderful additions are diced apples for a crisp texture, halved grapes for a juicy burst, or even dried cranberries for a tart sweetness.
Herb Freshness: Elevate the freshness with a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs. Dill, parsley, or chives can add a vibrant color and refreshing taste that complements the creamy dressing beautifully.
Go Greek: Swap out the Miracle Whip or mayonnaise for Greek yogurt to lighten things up. It adds a tangy flavor and creamy texture, not to mention a protein boost. If you miss the sweetness, a drizzle of honey will round out the flavors perfectly.
Veggie Variety: Don’t shy away from adding more vegetables if you’re looking to boost the nutritional value. Chopped red onion, shredded carrot, or even diced bell pepper can add color, crunch, and nutrition to every bite.

two chicken salad sandwiches served for lunch on plates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking the chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds a rich, savory flavor to your chicken salad. Just make sure to remove the skin and chop the meat into bite-sized pieces.

How long can I store the chicken salad in the refrigerator?

When stored in an airtight container, this chicken salad can be kept for two to three days in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within this time frame to ensure optimal freshness and taste.

Is this chicken salad healthy?

Yes, this Classic Chicken Salad can be part of a balanced diet. It contains protein, fruit, and vegetables. For a lighter version, you can substitute the Miracle Whip / mayonnaise with Greek yogurt and adjust the amount of dressing to your preference.

chicken salad sandwich on croissant with fruit.

More Chicken Based Recipes You Will Love

And there you have it – Classic Chicken Salad that’s as easy to make as it is to love. I think you’re going to enjoy it! If you do, please leave a comment and a 5-star rating below.

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