Deli-Style Chicken Salad

Ingredients:

• 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
• 1/4 cup celery, finely diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds or chopped walnuts (optional, for extra crunch)

Directions:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Use cooked chicken breast (leftover, rotisserie, or poached) and shred or dice it into small pieces.
2. Mix the Dressing: In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream (if using), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well-blended.
3. Add the Vegetables and Herbs: Add the diced celery, red onion, and parsley to the bowl. Stir to incorporate.
4. Combine with Chicken: Add the shredded or diced chicken to the dressing mixture. Stir until all the chicken is evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Add Nuts (Optional): If desired, fold in sliced almonds or chopped walnuts for an extra crunch.
6. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve on a bed of lettuce, in a sandwich, or wrapped in a tortilla.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Serves: 4-6
Calories: Approximately 250 kcal per serving

Why You’ll Love This Deli-Style Chicken Salad

This Deli-Style Chicken Salad is:

• Quick and Easy: Ready in minutes, perfect for meal prep or a fast lunch.
• Versatile: Great for sandwiches, wraps, or as a side dish.
• Customizable: Add your favorite ingredients, like grapes, apples, or pickles, to make it your own.
• Healthy and Filling: High in protein and easy to make with low-fat mayo or Greek yogurt for a lighter option.

Health Benefits of Deli-Style Chicken Salad

1. High Protein Content: Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, helping to keep you full and maintain muscle mass.
2. Rich in Healthy Fats: Using mayonnaise or Greek yogurt provides healthy fats for a satisfying meal.
3. Low Carb Option: This chicken salad is naturally low in carbs, making it ideal for low-carb or keto diets.

Tips for Making the Perfect Chicken Salad

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh celery, herbs, and high-quality chicken make a difference in flavor and texture.
2. Add Some Sweetness: For a touch of sweetness, add sliced grapes, diced apple, or dried cranberries.
3. Make it Lighter: Swap half the mayo for Greek yogurt or use light mayo for a lower-calorie option.

FAQ

Q: Can I make this chicken salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! Chicken salad actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours as the flavors meld together. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I use canned chicken?
A: Yes, canned chicken works as a convenient substitute, although freshly cooked chicken will have a better texture and flavor.

Q: What can I add for extra flavor?
A: Try adding a pinch of garlic powder, fresh dill, or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of a kick.

Conclusion

This Deli-Style  Chicken Salad is a classic recipe that never goes out of style. It’s  creamy, flavorful, and packed with textures from crunchy veggies and optional nuts. Whether you’re meal prepping, making a picnic lunch, or just craving a deli-style sandwich, this chicken salad is sure to satisfy. Try it today and elevate your lunch game with this timeless favorite!