This Classic High-Protein Chicken & Egg Salad is a tasty mix of tender chicken, hard-boiled eggs, and crisp veggies, all dressed in a creamy sauce. Perfect for a light lunch or a snack!
It’s like a protein party in your bowl! I love piling it high on toast or eating it straight from the bowl. Best part? It’s super easy and keeps me full for hours!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded or chopped chicken breast makes this salad hearty. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken works great! You can also swap it for canned chicken in a pinch.
Hard-Boiled Eggs: Eggs add protein and creaminess. If you’re short on eggs, try using just two instead of four. Some people also use scrambled eggs for a twist!
Celery: This adds a nice crunch. You could substitute with chopped cucumber or bell peppers if you prefer a different crunch or if celery isn’t your favorite.
Mayonnaise: For a lighter option, Greek yogurt can replace some or all the mayo, providing creaminess with less fat. Some like adding a splash of sour cream for tang.
Dijon Mustard: This offers a subtle kick. If you don’t have Dijon, regular mustard will suffice, or you can leave it out for a milder flavor.
How Do You Ensure the Chicken Salad is Well-Mixed?
Getting the right mix in your chicken salad is key! Start by breaking up the chicken into smaller pieces for better mixing. Then, use a large mixing bowl so you have space to stir without spilling.
- Combine the chicken and veggies first; this gives a good base.
- Whisk the dressing well before adding it; a smooth dressing coats better.
- Gently fold the dressing into the chicken mixture until everything is coated. Avoid heavy stirring to keep the eggs and chicken chunks intact.
This method will keep your salad looking nice and tasting great!
Classic High-Protein Chicken & Egg Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 4 hard-boiled eggs, peeled and quartered
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- Paprika, for sprinkling
- Lettuce leaves, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chicken and egg salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. If you pop the hard-boiled eggs in beforehand, you’ll be ready to enjoy it in no time! This salad is perfect for a quick meal and also stores well in the fridge.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine The Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken, finely chopped celery, and the optional red onion if you’d like some extra flavor. Toss these lightly to mix them up; this will be the base of your salad.
2. Make the Creamy Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix these until smooth and well combined. This dressing adds that tasty, creamy texture to the salad.
3. Mix It All Together:
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture. Gently stir everything together until all the chicken and veggies are coated in that delicious dressing. Be gentle so the eggs will stay intact when you add them later!
4. Prepare the Serving Dish:
Arrange the fresh lettuce leaves on a serving plate or in a bowl. This will create a lovely bed for your salad and add a crunchy touch.
5. Add the Chicken Salad:
Spoon the chicken salad mixture on top of the lettuce leaves. Make sure to distribute it evenly so everyone gets a tasty bite!
6. Garnish with Eggs and Seasoning:
Carefully place the quartered hard-boiled eggs on top of the salad. Sprinkle some paprika and additional chopped parsley over the top for a pop of color and flavor.
7. Serve or Store:
Your Classic High-Protein Chicken & Egg Salad is ready to enjoy! You can serve it immediately or refrigerate it for later. It’s great on its own or with your favorite bread or crackers!
With its high protein content and fresh ingredients, this salad is not only nutritious but also super tasty. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces for even mixing.
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for up to 3 days. Just give it a gentle stir before serving again, as some separation might occur.
Can I Substitute Greek Yogurt for Mayonnaise?
Yes, Greek yogurt is a great substitute for mayonnaise if you’re looking for a healthier option! It adds creaminess and a bit of tang. You can use it in equal measure, or mix it with mayonnaise for a balanced flavor.
What Other Add-Ins Can I Include?
You can customize your chicken salad with additional ingredients like diced apples for sweetness, walnuts for crunch, or even shredded carrots for extra veggies. Get creative with what you have on hand!