This simple, 7-ingredient chicken salad is a classic with a subtle, delicious twist. I’ve made it this way for years and once you try it, you’ll likely do the same. It’s perfect in a chicken salad sandwich, with crackers, or spooned over greens.
My Favorite Chicken Salad Sandwich Recipe
This easy chicken salad is a long‑overdue addition to my collection of satisfying salads.
Although the recipe is new to the blog, I’ve made it at home for more than 20 years. It uses just seven ingredients, including diced apples—an idea I borrowed from my aunt. The apples give a bright, sweet‑tart crunch that I now consider essential.
It tastes better than deli versions and is ideal for making ahead; the flavors deepen after chilling. It’s a simple, dependable option for summer lunches, picnics, or quick weeknight meals.
Why you’ll love it:
- Classic flavor with crunchy celery, crisp apples, and diced onion.
- Flexible serving options: on bread, with crackers, or over greens.
- Quick to assemble and great when made ahead.
What You Need
Seven simple ingredients combine for a satisfying mix of textures and flavor. Here’s what to have on hand:
- Chicken. Use cooked chopped chicken, rotisserie meat, drained canned chicken, or pre-cooked store chicken. Slow‑cooker shredded chicken also works well.
- Apples. A firm, sweet‑tart apple like Gala or Fuji is ideal. I usually leave the skin on, but peel if you prefer.
- Celery and onion. Dice to your preferred size—larger pieces for more crunch, or finely for a smoother texture.
- Mayo. Regular mayo gives a creamy base; swap in an olive‑oil mayo to lighten the salad if you like.
- Seasoning. Salt and pepper to taste. Start with the small amount listed in the recipe and adjust if your chicken is unseasoned.
SAM’S TIP: If you don’t love apples, try halved red grapes or mix them with the apples. This recipe is forgiving—swap similar add‑ins or tweak seasonings as desired.
For the exact measurements and full recipe, see the recipe card below.
How to Make It
- Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and stir until well combined.
- Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Cover and chill for at least 30 minutes so the flavors meld. I like mine very cold, so I briefly chill it in the freezer.
- Serve cold on bread, croissants, buns, a bed of lettuce, or with crackers.
SAM’S TIP: This chicken salad is perfect for potlucks, showers, brunches, or quick lunches and dinners.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Chilling the salad for a bit helps the flavors develop. Store it covered in the refrigerator and enjoy within 3 days.
Absolutely. Chopped pecans, walnuts, almonds, or dried cranberries make great additions.
Common options include sandwiches on toasted bread, buns, or croissants, scooping with crackers, or serving over a bed of lettuce as a light meal.
What do you like on your chicken salad sandwich? I usually add lettuce, though sprouts, tomato, or sliced onion are great too.
Enjoy!
Chicken Salad
Ingredients
- 1 lb (453 g) cooked chopped chicken
- 2/3 cup (85 g) chopped apple
- 1/3 cup (48 g) finely diced yellow onion
- 1 celery stalk (about 53 g), chopped
- 3/4 cup (160 g) mayo
- 1/8 teaspoon table salt, plus more to taste
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper, plus more to taste
- Bread or croissants for serving
- Lettuce for sandwiches (optional)
Instructions
- Combine chicken, apple, onion, celery, mayo, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. Stir until well combined, then taste and adjust seasoning.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve cold on sliced bread, buns, or croissants, or scoop with crackers. Add lettuce or other toppings as desired.
Notes
Chicken
Use pre-grilled cubed chicken chopped finer, leftover or rotisserie chicken, or 1 lb canned drained white meat chicken. Slow‑cooker shredded chicken also works.
Apples
Gala or Fuji are recommended for a firm, sweet‑tart bite. Peel if you prefer, but I usually leave the skin on.
Storing
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is an approximation.
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