There’s something timeless about a classic chicken salad, and Chicken Salad Chick’s Classic Carol is a shining example. This dish is a perfect blend of shredded chicken, creamy mayonnaise, and crunchy vegetables that come together to evoke memories of summer picnics and family gatherings. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a wholesome dinner option, or a crowd-pleasing dish for your next gathering, this recipe hits the mark every time.
Why you’ll love this dish
Chicken Salad Chick’s Classic Carol isn’t just another meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that resonate with many. It’s not only quick to whip up, making it a lifesaver for busy weeknights, but it’s also incredibly budget-friendly. You can transform leftover chicken into a delicious dish without breaking the bank, and the kids are guaranteed to love it too. It’s versatile, making for a delightful sandwich filler, a topping for a bed of greens, or simply served on its own with crackers.
"This chicken salad is my go-to for family gatherings! It’s easy, delicious, and a hit with everyone." – Happy Home Cook
How this recipe comes together
Creating Chicken Salad Chick’s Classic Carol is as simple as chopping, mixing, and chilling. Start by shredding your cooked chicken, and then combine it with mayonnaise, celery, and onion. Season with salt, pepper, sugar, and a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. The best part? It only takes a few minutes to prepare, then you let it chill for at least 30 minutes to allow all those incredible flavors to meld together.
What you’ll need
Gather these items to make Chicken Salad Chick’s Classic Carol:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
You can easily swap out the chicken for turkey if you have leftovers, and feel free to use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a healthier twist!
Step-by-step instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken and mayonnaise.
- Add the finely chopped celery and onion to the bowl.
- Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and sugar.
- Pour in the lemon juice and mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Cover the bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Best ways to enjoy it
The serving possibilities for Chicken Salad Chick’s Classic Carol are endless. For a classic touch, serve it on a soft croissant or between two slices of fresh bread to create a satisfying sandwich. You could also spoon it on a bed of mixed greens, topped with a few sliced almonds for crunch. Pair it with a side of fresh fruit or some crispy potato chips for a delightful, light meal!
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your Chicken Salad Chick Classic Carol fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will last for about 3-5 days. If you want to make it ahead of time, it’s perfect for meal prep! While it’s best served chilled, if you have leftovers, no need to worry; just give it a stir before serving.
Helpful cooking tips
For a shortcut, consider using store-bought rotisserie chicken to save time on cooking and shredding. Make sure to finely chop your celery and onion, as this will help with even distribution of flavors throughout the salad. And don’t skip the chilling step; it truly allows all the flavors to come together beautifully.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? You can add dried cranberries or grapes for a sweet twist, or even toss in some chopped pecans for additional texture. For a southwestern flair, consider adding diced jalapeños and a hint of chili powder to spice things up. The options are vast, so get creative based on your tastes!
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare?
Preparation time is quick! You can have the salad mixed and ready to chill in about 15 minutes.
Can I make substitutions for dietary needs?
Absolutely! You can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter option, or substitute the chicken with chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
How long can I store leftovers?
You can keep Chicken Salad Chick’s Classic Carol in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. Just make sure it’s stored in an airtight container!
Chicken Salad Chick’s Classic Carol
A timeless classic chicken salad featuring shredded chicken, creamy mayonnaise, and crunchy vegetables, perfect for lunch or gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Paleo
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken and mayonnaise.
- Add the finely chopped celery and onion to the bowl.
- Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and sugar.
- Pour in the lemon juice and mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Cover the bowl and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Notes
For a lighter option, substituting Greek yogurt for mayonnaise works well. Use finely chopped celery and onion for even flavor distribution.