This New York Deli Chicken Salad is a tasty mix of fresh chicken, crunchy celery, and a creamy dressing. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a snack!
Whenever I whip this up, I feel like I’m sitting in a bustling deli, enjoying every delicious bite. Pair it with some crackers or on a sandwich, and you’re good to go!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded chicken breast is crucial for this recipe. If you’re in a pinch, rotisserie chicken works perfectly, saving you cooking time. You can also use turkey if you want a lighter option.
Mayonnaise: Mayo creates a creamy base. If you prefer a lighter version or want to avoid eggs, try avocado mayonnaise or hummus for a different twist!
Greek Yogurt: This adds a nice tanginess and creaminess. You can skip it if you prefer, but using plain yogurt or even sour cream works well as a substitute.
Celery: Provides crunch and freshness. If celery isn’t your favorite, try chopped bell peppers or cucumbers for a nice texture.
Red Onion: Offers a sharp bite but can be strong for some. If you want a milder flavor, use green onions or sweet onions instead.
Dijon Mustard: Adds depth. Yellow mustard is a milder substitute. You could also leave it out if you don’t like mustard.
Poppy Seed Rolls/Bagels: These are classic for serving, but any bread or wrap you like will work. Consider whole-grain for a healthier choice!
How Do I Combine All These Ingredients for the Best Chicken Salad?
Mixing all ingredients properly ensures every bite is tasty. Start with the chicken, mayo, and yogurt in a large bowl. This mixture should be creamy and moist. Then, gently fold in the celery and red onion—be careful not to over-mix; you want to keep some texture.
- Add the Dijon mustard and lemon juice last, blending them through without breaking the chicken down too much.
- Always taste and adjust the seasoning. A little more salt, pepper, or lemon can truly elevate the flavors!
How to Make New York Deli Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (optional for tanginess)
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sandwiches:
- 4 poppy seed rolls or bagels
- Leafy green lettuce (like romaine or iceberg)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes for preparation. If you need to cook the chicken, that will take an additional 20-30 minutes. Once you have everything ready, you’ll be enjoying your delicious chicken salad sandwiches in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Salad:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mayonnaise, and Greek yogurt if you’re using it. Use a spoon or spatula to mix everything together until the chicken is nicely coated with the creamy mixture.
2. Add Vegetables for Crunch:
Add the finely chopped celery and red onion to the bowl. These will bring some crunch and flavor to your salad! Stir everything well to mix all the ingredients together evenly.
3. Season to Perfection:
Now it’s time to add some flavor. Mix in the Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed – you want it just right!
4. Toast the Rolls or Bagels:
While you’re preparing the salad, toast the poppy seed rolls or bagels until they are lightly golden. This will add some nice texture to your sandwiches.
5. Assemble the Sandwiches:
On the bottom half of each toasted roll or bagel, place a generous scoop of the chicken salad. Make sure it’s nice and hearty!
6. Add Freshness with Lettuce:
Top each chicken salad portion with a couple of fresh lettuce leaves. This adds a lovely crunch and freshness to your sandwich.
7. Finish and Serve:
Close the sandwiches with the top halves of the rolls or bagels. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious New York Deli Chicken Salad sandwiches – perfect for lunch or a light dinner!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken Instead of Cooking My Own Chicken?
Absolutely! Store-bought rotisserie chicken saves time and adds extra flavor. Just shred the skinless meat, discarding any bones, and mix it in with the other ingredients as you would with cooked chicken breast. It’s convenient and still delicious!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise in the Chicken Salad?
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can substitute mayonnaise with more Greek yogurt for creaminess. If you want a different flavor, avocado or a combination of sour cream and a bit of mustard can also work well!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Chicken Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and they will be good for 3 to 4 days. Just make sure to give it a quick stir before enjoying it again, as some ingredients may settle. If you’re planning to keep it longer, consider freezing the chicken salad and defrosting it in the refrigerator when ready to use.
Can I Make This Chicken Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken salad a day in advance! Just keep it covered in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. However, wait to add the lettuce until you’re ready to serve to keep it crisp.
