Chicken Salad

There’s something about cold Chicken Salad that just feels like summer. It’s creamy without being heavy, easy to prep ahead, and incredibly versatile.

Plus, you can make a big batch and enjoy it for a few days—perfect for those long, laid-back summer afternoons.

I love how you can keep it simple or dress it up depending on what’s in your fridge.

This version includes tender chicken, a light dressing, and a pop of sweetness from fresh grapes—but don’t worry, I’ve got some fun mix-in ideas below, including a salty olive twist if sweet’s not your thing.

Popular Add-ins:

• Grapes or dried cranberries for sweetness
• Chopped nuts like almonds, pecans, or walnuts
• Olives, green, black or Kalamata
• Hard-boiled eggs
• Dijon mustard, herbs (like dill or parsley), or lemon juice for flavor

So Many Ways to Serve It

Chicken Salad is endlessly versatile. Here are a few of our favorite ways to serve it:

• Piled high on buttery croissants
• Scooped into crisp lettuce cups for a light, low-carb option
• Spread on crackers or toast for a quick snack
• Served with a side of fruit or chips for an easy lunchbox meal
• Or just eaten straight from the bowl with a fork (no judgment here!)

Looking for more summer sandwich inspiration? Don’t miss my Classic Club Sandwich, Egg Salad Sandwich, and nostalgic Maid-Rite Sandwiches—all perfect for warm-weather lunches!

What is Chicken Salad?

Chicken Salad is a dish typically made from cooked, chopped chicken combined with ingredients like mayonnaise, celery, and onion.

It’s often served cold and used as a filling for sandwiches, lettuce wraps, or crackers, or as a standalone salad.

Chicken Salad is a versatile, creamy, and flavorful dish that works well for picnics, potlucks, or quick lunches.

Ingredients

• Cooked chicken, shredded or chopped (rotisserie works great!)
• Seedless green grapes, halved
• Mayonnaise
• Sweet onion, diced
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt
• Pepper

How to make Chicken Salad

In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, salt, and pepper.

Taste and adjust seasoning.

In a large mixing bowl, add chicken and shredded cheese.

Stir in mayonnaise and sweet onion.

Mix in the grapes, stir until everything is combined.

Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Make it a sandwich with a flaky croissant.