Craving that rich, creamy chicken salad from your favorite deli? Now you can make it at home in just minutes—with even fresher flavor and better ingredients. This Deli-Style Chicken Salad is the ultimate blend of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a tangy, creamy dressing that brings it all together.
Whether you enjoy it in sandwiches, wraps, or lettuce cups, this recipe is a must-have meal prep staple you’ll keep coming back to.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Salad
✅ Quick and Easy – Ready in just 15 minutes with minimal prep.
✅ Versatile – Serve it on croissants, in wraps, over greens, or with crackers.
✅ Creamy Meets Crunchy – That perfect bite every single time.
✅ Meal Prep Hero – Stays fresh for days in the fridge.
✅ Customizable – Add-ins like grapes, nuts, or herbs make it your own.
Ingredients
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2–3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped (rotisserie works great)
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½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
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1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
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1 tablespoon lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
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½ cup celery, finely chopped
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¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Add-ins:
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¼ cup sliced grapes or dried cranberries
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¼ cup chopped walnuts or slivered almonds
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1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill or parsley
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken to save time. Shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Mix the Dressing
In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice (or vinegar), salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
Step 3: Combine and Customize
Add the chicken, celery, and red onion to the bowl. Mix until evenly coated.
Fold in any optional ingredients like grapes, nuts, or fresh herbs.
Step 4: Chill (Optional)
For best flavor, cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. But if you’re short on time, it’s delicious right away!
How to Serve It
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On a buttery croissant for a deli-style lunch
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In a wrap or pita pocket for on-the-go bites
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Over romaine or butter lettuce leaves for a low-carb option
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With crackers or toast points for entertaining or snacks
Tips & Variations
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No mayo? Use plain Greek yogurt or a mix of yogurt and sour cream.
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Want a sweeter version? Add sweet pickle relish or a bit of honey mustard.
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Chop fine or chunky? Dice everything finely for sandwich spreads or leave chunky for salad-style meals.
Storage
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It’s perfect for meal prep or busy weekdays.
Fun Fact
Chicken salad has been a deli favorite since the early 1800s when it first appeared in American kitchens as a way to use up leftover roasted chicken. Today, it’s evolved into a flavorful, protein-packed staple with endless variations—from Southern-style with relish and eggs to California-style with grapes and nuts.
Final Thoughts
This Deli-Style Chicken Salad brings you the nostalgic comfort of your favorite café lunch—right from your own kitchen. Easy, customizable, and packed with protein, it’s sure to become a weekly favorite.