1-First Step: Prepare Your Chicken Begin by selecting your cooked chicken. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience, leftover cooked chicken, or poach fresh chicken breasts according to the optional poaching method. For poaching, place chicken breasts in a pot with chicken broth or water, add salt, pepper, a celery stalk with leaves, and optional fresh herbs like parsley or garlic. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and cook for 5 minutes. Cover and let rest for 15-20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Once cooled, finely chop or shred the chicken to about 2 cups for the salad.

2-Second Step: Chop Fresh Vegetables and Herbs Dice one rib of celery finely to add refreshing crunch. Slice one green onion thinly or alternatively dice ⅓ cup of red onion, scallions, or chives for a gentle onion flavor. Optionally chop fresh dill or parsley to enhance herbal notes in your chicken salad.

3-Third Step: Combine the Dressing Ingredients In a medium bowl, mix ½ cup of mayonnaise, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, ¼ to ½ teaspoon seasoned salt (adjust to taste), and ⅛ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. For a lighter alternative, substitute some or all of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. This creamy mixture will provide the binding and flavor base for the chicken salad.

4-Fourth Step: Mix the Salad Components Add the chopped chicken, celery, green onion, and optional fresh herbs to the bowl with the dressing. If desired, incorporate optional ingredients such as 1 cup chopped red grapes or peeled chopped apple to add sweetness, 2 tablespoons chopped nuts for crunch, or 2 tablespoons chicken broth to keep the salad moist without extra fat. Thoroughly mix all components until evenly coated.

5-Fifth Step: Adjust Seasoning and Texture Taste your chicken salad and adjust seasoning accordingly by adding additional salt, pepper, or herbs as needed. If the salad seems dry, add a splash of chicken broth or a bit more mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to achieve your preferred consistency.

6-Sixth Step: Chill the Salad For best flavor, refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the overall taste experience.

7-Final Step: Serve and Enjoy Serve your chicken salad cold. It pairs wonderfully on fresh bread, dinner rolls, crackers, over a bed of crunchy lettuce, or wrapped in collard greens or grain-free tortillas. For more flavorful sandwich ideas, lightly toast your bread before layering the salad. This recipe also makes for an excellent, portable option for picnics or potlucks.