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Bowl of classic chicken salad with herbs on a wooden table with toast

Classic Chicken Salad with Deli-Shop Herb Flavor

This classic chicken salad recipe brings that deli-shop herb flavor home with a creamy, tangy dressing and plenty of fresh herbs. It's quick, practical, and perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or lettuce cups.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Resting Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups cooked chicken rotisserie or poached, shredded or diced
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
  • 1/4 cup finely diced celery optional
  • 2 tablespoons diced red onion optional

Method
 

  1. Prepare the chicken: If using rotisserie chicken, remove skin and bones, then shred or dice into bite-sized pieces. For poached chicken, place 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts in a pot, cover with water, add a pinch of salt, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook 12-15 minutes until cooked through. Let cool, then shred.
  2. Make the dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  3. Add herbs and aromatics: Stir in parsley, dill, chives, celery, and red onion (if using).
  4. Combine: Add the chicken to the bowl and fold gently until evenly coated. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
  5. Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld. Serve cold or at room temperature.