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There’s something special about the Classic Carol Chicken Salad Recipe, it’s more than just a dish. It brings back sunny afternoons, laughter in the kitchen, and that comforting feeling of home.I can still picture the moment I first tried this dish, it was during a cozy afternoon get-together with family, and just one bite had me hooked. It wasn’t fancy, just real food made with love, grapes bursting with sweetness, the crunch of celery, and creamy chicken that wraps you in a sense of comfort.
This recipe isn’t just for your table, it’s for your heart. Whether you’re making it for lunch, packing it up for a picnic, or just treating yourself, every bite reminds you to slow down and enjoy the little things.
1.Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Classic Carol Chicken Salad Recipe is the kind of meal that brings comfort without any fuss. It’s:
- Quick to prepare, even on your busiest days
- A delicious mix of smooth creaminess, satisfying crunch, and just the right hint of natural sweetness in every bite.
- A go-to for lunch, light dinners, or meal prep
- Loved by both kids and adults, simple, familiar, and full of flavor
This is the kind of recipe that naturally finds its way into your regular routine, comforting, reliable, and always worth making just one more time. Easy to share, easy to enjoy, and just the right kind of homemade goodness.
2.Ingredients
Chicken: Shredded or chopped cooked chicken works best for a tender, flavorful base. Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut.
Mayonnaise: A creamy, smooth mayonnaise brings everything together and adds richness to the salad. Use whichever brand you prefer.
Celery: Finely diced celery adds a fresh crunch and balances the creamy texture of the salad.
Salt: Season with salt to taste, enhancing all the flavors in the chicken salad.
Pepper: A dash of black pepper adds a bit of spice and complements the creamy ingredients.
Garlic Powder: A light sprinkle of garlic powder adds a savory depth to the salad.
Onion Powder: Onion powder gives the salad an extra layer of flavor without the bite of fresh onions.
3.Equipment Needed
Making the Classic Carol Chicken Salad is simple with just a few basic kitchen essentials you probably already have.
- Large pot (for boiling the chicken)
- Medium-sized mixing bowl
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Spoon or spatula for stirring
- Measuring cups for accuracy
5.Tips for Best Flavor
To make your Classic Carol Chicken Salad Recipe even more delicious, try these simple tips:
Use Rotisserie Chicken:
For extra flavor, opt for rotisserie chicken instead of plain cooked chicken. The smoky, seasoned taste will elevate your salad.
Add Fresh Herbs:
A handful of fresh dill or parsley adds a bright, refreshing twist to the creamy salad base.
Balance the Sweetness:
Adjust the sweetness by adding a little more or less grapes depending on your taste. Red grapes also work great for a pop of color and extra sweetness.
Toast the Nuts:
If you’re using pecans, lightly toast them in a pan for a few minutes to bring out their nutty flavor. This step adds a deeper crunch.
Chill Before Serving:
Letting the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors meld together. The longer you let it rest, the more the ingredients will blend perfectly.
6.Storage Instructions
To keep your Classic Carol Chicken Salad Recipe fresh, follow these storage tips:
Keep your chicken salad fresh:
by placing it in a sealed container and storing it in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within three days to keep the taste and texture just right.
Avoid the freezer:
this recipe does best when kept cold. Freezing: it changes the mayo’s creamy texture and makes the chicken tough instead of tender.
Serve Chilled:
Before serving leftovers, give it a quick stir and check for seasoning. If it needs a little extra flavor, add a dash of salt or pepper.
With these simple storage tips, you can enjoy your delicious chicken salad for days.
Classic Carol Chicken Salad Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups of chicken breast cooked and either chopped or pulled apart.
- 1/2 a measuring cup of smooth mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup celery finely diced
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: A handful of chopped pecans or sliced almonds for added texture
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the chicken breast for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you’re working with bigger chicken breasts, you might need to cook them a little longer.
- Step 2: After cooking, take the chicken out of the pot and let it rest for a few minutes to cool down. Shred the chicken using a fork or a food processor.
- Step 3: In a spacious bowl, mix the creamy mayonnaise with a dash of salt and pepper, stirring until the ingredients are fully blended and smooth.
- Step 4: Mix the shredded chicken and chopped celery into the mayonnaise blend. Stir carefully to make sure all the ingredients are well-coated.
- Step 5: Optionally, fold in sweet pickle relish and, if desired, a handful of chopped pecans or sliced almonds for an extra touch of texture.
- For optimal flavor, cover the salad and let it rest in the fridge for a minimum of 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbs: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 6g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
- Sodium: 450mg
7.FAQs
How to make chicken salad taste better?
Try mixing in minced fresh herbs like parsley, chives, basil, or tarragon for a boost of flavor. Fresh grapes add a burst of sweetness, while tossing in some cooked pasta can turn the salad into a hearty meal. Simply make sure to increase the mayo so that everything stays nicely covered and creamy.
Are apples good in chicken salad?
Apples add a sweet crunch that complements the savory chicken and creamy mayo. They’re a great addition if you love a balance of textures in your salad.
What dressing for chicken salad?
While traditional chicken salad usually calls for a mayo base, you can easily swap in Greek yogurt if you’re looking for something a bit lighter and tangier. Adding a bit of mustard or lemon juice can also give your salad a flavorful zing.
Can I use Greek yogurt for chicken salad?
Greek yogurt is a great substitute for mayo, offering a lighter, protein-rich alternative for your salad. It still provides creaminess while cutting down on the richness.
What do you eat with chicken salad?
Chicken salad is versatile, You can serve it with fresh greens, scoop it onto a sandwich, or enjoy it in lettuce wraps. It’s also great with crackers for a quick snack.
Can you put carrots in chicken salad?
Absolutely, Carrots add a nice crunch and a slight sweetness that pairs well with the other ingredients. These ingredients add a vibrant splash of color, making your salad even more appealing.
What seasoning should I put in chicken salad?
Basic seasonings such as salt, pepper, and garlic powder are key to bringing out the best flavors. To enhance the taste, consider sprinkling in a little celery salt or a touch of paprika for a hint of smoky richness.
Why is chicken salad called salad?
Despite being made with chicken, the term “salad” refers to the way the ingredients are combined with a dressing and served cold. It’s a simple, fresh, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion.