Chicken Salad with a Deli Twist is a versatile, creamy, and flavorful dish perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick lunch.
This recipe blends tender chicken with classic deli-inspired flavors, creating a salad that everyone will enjoy.
You can customize it with your favorite ingredients for a unique twist every time.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
50g boneless chicken breast, diced
300g skinless chicken thighs, diced
1.5 tsp extra-virgin olive oil
1/2 tsp sea salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp onion powder
For the Salad Base:
1.5 cups mayonnaise
1/3 cup celery, diced
1/4 tsp sea salt (to taste)
1/4 tsp black pepper (to taste).
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
In a bowl, toss the diced chicken breast and thighs with olive oil, onion powder, sea salt, and black pepper.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken pieces until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
Let the chicken cool completely before adding it to the salad.
Step 2: Mix the Salad Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, diced celery, sea salt, and black pepper.
Mix until well incorporated.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
Add the cooled chicken to the mayonnaise mixture.
Gently fold everything together until the chicken is evenly coated with the creamy base.
Step 4: Chill and Serve
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld.
Serve chilled, garnished with extra celery or herbs if desired.
Customization Ideas
Add More Crunch:
Diced apples or grapes for a hint of sweetness.
Toasted almonds, walnuts, or pecans for a nutty crunch.
Add More Flavor:
Dijon mustard for tanginess.
Chopped fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives.
Diced pickles or capers for a briny twist.
Make It Spicy:
A dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper.
Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes.
Serving Suggestions
Classic Sandwich: Serve between slices of fresh bread or in a croissant.
Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves as a low-carb alternative.
On Crackers: Perfect for an appetizer or snack.
As a Salad Topper: Spoon over mixed greens for a light and refreshing meal.
Variations for Creamy Chicken Salad
Protein Variations:
Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using shredded rotisserie chicken instead of cooking fresh chicken.
Turkey: Substitute turkey breast for a leaner alternative.
Plant-Based: Use diced tofu, chickpeas, or a plant-based chicken substitute for a vegetarian version.
Mix-Ins:
Fruits: Add sweetness and texture with diced apples, halved grapes, or dried cranberries.
Nuts & Seeds: Include toasted almonds, pecans, or sunflower seeds for crunch.
Cheese: Mix in crumbled blue cheese or shredded cheddar for extra richness.
Herbs: Fresh parsley, dill, or tarragon can enhance the flavor profile.
Spices: Add a pinch of paprika, cayenne, or curry powder for a unique twist.
Dressing Alternatives:
Greek Yogurt: Replace part or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier option.
Avocado: Mash a ripe avocado to use as a creamy base.
Vinaigrette: Opt for a light vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.
Serving Ideas:
Serve in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
Use as a filling for sandwiches, wraps, or pita pockets.
Spoon over crackers or cucumber slices for a quick snack.
Pair with pasta for a chicken pasta salad.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Salad
Cook the Chicken Perfectly:
Dice chicken into even-sized pieces for consistent cooking.
Avoid overcooking to keep it juicy and tender.
Cool the Chicken:
Let the chicken cool completely before mixing with the dressing to prevent a watery salad.
Adjust the Dressing:
Start with less mayonnaise and add more as needed to reach your desired consistency.
Make Ahead:
Prepare the salad a day in advance to let the flavors meld beautifully.
Season to Taste:
Adjust salt, pepper, and other spices after chilling, as the flavors may change slightly over time.
With these variations and tips, you can customize your chicken salad to suit any occasion or palate!
Storage Tips
Refrigerate: Store leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Do Not Freeze: Mayonnaise-based salads do not freeze well as the texture will separate upon thawing.
Chicken Salad with a Deli Twist is a timeless dish that never goes out of style.
Whether enjoyed on its own, in a sandwich, or as part of a larger meal, it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings comfort and flavor to any occasion.