deli style chicken salad

Here’s a classic deli-style chicken salad recipe that’s perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or enjoying on its own:

Deli-Style Chicken Salad Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast (chopped or shredded)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup celery (finely chopped)
• 1/4 cup red onion (finely chopped)
• 1/4 cup dill pickles or relish (finely chopped)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-ins:

• 1/4 cup grapes (halved) or 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup slivered almonds or 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/4 cup apple (diced)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: If not already cooked, poach or bake chicken breasts until fully cooked. Allow to cool, then chop or shred into bite-sized pieces.
2. Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
3. Add Veggies: Add the chopped celery, red onion, dill pickles or relish, and parsley to the bowl. Stir to combine.
4. Combine with Chicken: Add the chopped or shredded chicken to the bowl and mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
5. Optional Add-ins: If using grapes, cranberries, nuts, or apples, fold them into the mixture at this stage.
6. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
7. Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together.
8. Serve: Serve chilled, as a sandwich filling, in a wrap, on a bed of lettuce, or with crackers.

Tips:

• Make Ahead: Chicken salad tastes even better the next day, making it a great option for meal prep.
• Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs, such as tarragon or chives, or add a touch of sweetness with a bit of honey.

Enjoy your homemade deli-style chicken salad!