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If you’re craving a wonderfully flavorful and timeless dish that’s as comforting as it is versatile, you’ve got to try the Classic Carol Chicken Salad Recipe. This beloved salad balances creamy, tangy, and fresh flavors in every bite, making it a fantastic option for lunch, picnics, or casual dinners. With simple ingredients that come together effortlessly, this recipe has become a favorite not just for its taste but for how it brings people together around delicious, wholesome food.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the key to unlocking the full charm of the Classic Carol Chicken Salad Recipe. Each component adds its own perfect note — from the tender, diced chicken that provides heartiness, to the crisp celery and bright parsley that bring refreshing crunch and color.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced: The star of this salad, offering protein and a meaty texture that’s easy to customize.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and binds all the ingredients together beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard: Brings a subtle kick and a rich depth of flavor that livens up the salad.
- 1/4 cup chopped celery: Provides a lovely crunch and fresh, slightly peppery flavor.
- 1/4 cup chopped onion: Adds a gentle sharpness that complements the creamy base perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the overall savory notes without overwhelming.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: Brightens the dish with a pop of green and a hint of herbal freshness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors into perfect harmony.
How to Make Classic Carol Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Main Ingredients
Start by placing the diced cooked chicken in a large bowl — this is the hearty base that everything else will complement. Add in the creamy mayonnaise and tangy Dijon mustard for instant richness and bold flavor.
Step 2: Add Crisp Vegetables and Seasonings
Next, toss in the chopped celery and onion. These add texture and a fresh bite, balancing the creamy mayonnaise and tender chicken. Sprinkle in the garlic powder for a subtle savory boost that ties all the elements together.
Step 3: Stir in Fresh Parsley and Season
Don’t forget the fresh parsley — it brings a vibrant green color and a crisp, mild herbaceous note that lifts the salad. Finish by seasoning with salt and pepper, tasting as you go to get the perfect flavor balance.
Step 4: Chill to Marry the Flavors
After mixing everything thoroughly, cover the bowl and chill the salad in your refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This resting time is crucial because it allows all those delicious flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a more cohesive and satisfying taste.
Step 5: Ready to Serve!
Whether you enjoy it cold straight from the fridge or let it sit at room temperature for a bit, the Classic Carol Chicken Salad Recipe is ready to be the star of your meal or snack time.
How to Serve Classic Carol Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little extra chopped parsley or some freshly cracked black pepper on top for an inviting, visually fresh presentation. A sprinkling of paprika can also add a warm, colorful touch that enhances the overall look and appeal.
Side Dishes
This chicken salad pairs beautifully with crisp green salads, buttery croissants, or crispy crackers. You can also serve it alongside fresh fruit like grapes or apple slices for a balance of sweet and savory that will delight your palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling playful? Serve the Classic Carol Chicken Salad Recipe stuffed inside a fluffy pita pocket, atop mixed greens as a light salad, or spread it generously on toasted bread for a satisfyingly crunchy sandwich. These variations make it easy to enjoy the salad in new and fun ways anytime.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover Classic Carol Chicken Salad Recipe stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or snacks during a busy week.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh and chilled but not recommended for freezing, as the texture of mayonnaise and fresh vegetables can change when thawed.
Reheating
Since this is a cold salad, reheating is not necessary or advised. Simply enjoy it chilled or at room temperature to savor the perfect creamy texture and fresh flavors.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a convenient and flavorful shortcut that works perfectly in the Classic Carol Chicken Salad Recipe, saving you prep time without sacrificing taste.
Is there a way to make this salad healthier?
Yes! You can swap out regular mayonnaise for a lighter version or Greek yogurt, which cuts calories while adding a subtle tang and creaminess.
Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
Definitely. Feel free to include diced apples, grapes, or nuts for extra texture and flavor variety—just keep the balance so the classic taste shines through.
How long does the chicken salad need to chill before serving?
Chilling for at least 30 minutes is ideal to allow the flavors to meld, but if you’re short on time, 15–20 minutes can still yield good results.
Can this salad be made vegan?
To veganize it, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use a plant-based mayo alternative, then adjust seasonings to taste for a delicious plant-based version.
Final Thoughts
Once you make the Classic Carol Chicken Salad Recipe, it’s bound to become one of your go-to dishes, whether for a quick lunch, a picnic, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Its beautiful blend of creamy, tangy, and fresh ingredients makes every bite a joy, so don’t hesitate to whip it up and share with friends and family—you’ll be so glad you did!
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Classic Carol Chicken Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
Classic Carol Chicken Salad Chick is a creamy, tangy chicken salad made with diced cooked chicken, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, celery, onion, and fresh parsley. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for quick lunches or light dinners, served cold or at room temperature with your favorite bread or crackers.
Ingredients
Chicken Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine diced chicken, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, chopped celery, chopped onion, and garlic powder. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
- Add Parsley and Season: Stir in the fresh chopped parsley, then season the mixture with salt and pepper to your taste preferences.
- Chill Salad: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and enhances the taste.
- Serve: Serve the chicken salad cold or at room temperature. It pairs well with bread, crackers, or fresh greens for a light meal.
Notes
- Use cooked chicken breast for lean protein.
- Adjust mayonnaise and mustard quantities for preferred creaminess and tang.
- For extra crunch, you can add chopped nuts like almonds or pecans.
- Optionally garnish with paprika or additional parsley before serving.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
