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–+ servings

Side Dishes for Classic Chicken Salad Recipe

Elaine Gordon
When you're diving into the delightful world of classic chicken salad, a few standout side dishes can elevate the meal experience.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 408 kcal

Equipment

  • A large bowl, whisk

Ingredients
  

  • ⅔ cup high-quality mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup full-fat sour cream
  • 1½ tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1½ teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon fine salt
  • ½ teaspoon granulated sugar
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 4½ cups cooked shredded chicken
  • 3 scallions
  • 2 ribs celery
  • 3 tablespoons fresh chopped dill
  • 3 tablespoons fresh chopped Italian parsley
  • 1 teaspoon whole-grain mustard
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

  • In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, sugar, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and well-blended. A good dressing is the heart of this salad!

Step 2: Shred the Chicken

  • If you're starting with whole chicken breast, cook it until tender. You can boil it or roast it; both methods work well. After cooling, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Aim for about 4½ cups.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

  • In a large bowl, add the shredded chicken, scallions, celery, dill, and parsley. Pour the dressing over this mixture.

Step 4: Mix, Don't Overmix

  • Gently toss everything together with a spatula. You want to coat the chicken and vegetables without breaking everything down into oblivion. The goal is that perfect mix of textures.

Step 5: Chill

  • Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least an hour. This allows the flavors to meld and the chicken salad to chill, making it the perfect refreshing dish.

Notes

  • Use Cooked Chicken Wisely: Rotisserie chicken works great. It saves time and adds flavor!
  • Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning according to your preference—a little salt or a splash more lemon can make a huge difference.
  • Let It Chill: Patience is key. Giving it time in the fridge makes for a better blend of flavors.
  • Make It Ahead: This salad keeps well. Consider making it a day before you plan to serve it for maximum flavor.
  • Experiment with Add-ins: Don’t be shy! Feel free to sneak in diced apples, grapes, or nuts if that’s your thing.

Nutrition

Calories: 408kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 34gFat: 27.9gSaturated Fat: 22.1gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 403mgSodium: 287mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 7IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 9mgIron: 24mg
Keyword Side Dishes for Classic Chicken Salad Recipe
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