Ina Garten Chicken Salad Recipe is a light and refreshing dish, perfect for a summer picnic or a light lunch it serves 4-6 and takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare.
Try More Chicken Recipes
Why You’ll Love This Ina Garten Chicken Salad Recipe:
- Simple and Elegant: The recipe is easy to follow and delivers restaurant-quality results.
- Quick and Easy: A perfect weeknight meal that comes together quickly.
- Flavorful: The combination of chicken, mayonnaise, tarragon, and celery creates a burst of fresh flavor.
- Versatile: Can be served on sandwiches, wraps, or as a salad.
What Is Ina Garten Chicken Salad Recipe?
Chicken Salad is a classic dish made with shredded or diced chicken, mayonnaise, and various seasonings and mix-ins, such as celery, onion, and herbs.

Ingredients:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh tarragon
- 1/4 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken breasts and cook until browned on both sides and cooked through.
- Remove from skillet and let cool. Once cool, shred chicken using two forks.
- In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and tarragon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add shredded chicken, celery, onion, and walnuts to the bowl with the dressing. Toss to combine.
- Serve immediately on bread, wraps, or as a salad.
Recipe Tips
- Use high-quality ingredients: Using good quality mayonnaise will enhance the flavor of the chicken salad.
- Add your favorite mix-ins: Get creative with your mix-ins! Try adding chopped grapes, dried cranberries, or chopped apples.
- Make it ahead: You can make the chicken salad ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

What To Serve With Chicken Salad?
Serve Chicken Salad on crusty bread ,rolls or croissants in lettuce wraps or tortillas or with crackers or crostini on a bed of lettuce or mixed greens.
How To Store Leftover Chicken Salad?
Refrigerator: Store leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
FAQs
What type of chicken is best for Chicken Salad?
Cooked, shredded, or diced chicken breast works best for Chicken Salad because of its lean and tender texture. Rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken can also be used for convenience.
Can I make Chicken Salad without mayonnaise?
Yes, you can substitute mayonnaise in Chicken Salad with Greek yogurt, sour cream, mashed avocado, or a vinaigrette for a lighter and healthier version.
What vegetables can I add to Chicken Salad?
Common vegetables in Chicken Salad include celery, red onion, bell peppers, and cucumbers. Adding fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives enhances the flavor.
Is Chicken Salad healthy?
Chicken Salad can be healthy, depending on the ingredients. Use lean chicken, low-fat mayonnaise or yogurt, and add nutrient-rich vegetables and fruits to make it a nutritious option.
Can I use canned chicken for Chicken Salad?
Yes, canned chicken is a convenient option for Chicken Salad. Just drain and shred it before mixing with other ingredients for a quick and easy dish.
What are some common variations of Chicken Salad?
Variations include adding nuts like almonds or walnuts, fruits like raisins or cranberries, or spices like curry powder. You can also make it keto-friendly by omitting high-carb ingredients.
How can I make Chicken Salad more filling?
Add ingredients like boiled eggs, avocado, quinoa, or beans to Chicken Salad to make it more filling and protein-packed.
More Chicken Recipes:
- Ina Garten Lemon Chicken Breasts Recipe
- Pioneer Woman Chicken Pasta Salad Recipe
- Pioneer Woman Buffalo Chicken Meatballs Recipe
Nutrition Facts
Serving Size: 1 Serving
- Calories: 131 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Fat: 5 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg
- Sodium: 307 mg
- Sugar: 1 g

Ina Garten Chicken Salad
Description
Ina Garten Chicken Salad Recipe is a light and refreshing dish, perfect for a summer picnic or a light lunch it serves 4-6 and takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken breasts and cook until browned on both sides and cooked through.
- Remove from skillet and let cool. Once cool, shred chicken using two forks.
- In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and tarragon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add shredded chicken, celery, onion, and walnuts to the bowl with the dressing. Toss to combine.
- Serve immediately on bread, wraps, or as a salad.
Notes
- Use high-quality ingredients: Using good quality mayonnaise will enhance the flavor of the chicken salad.
Add your favorite mix-ins: Get creative with your mix-ins! Try adding chopped grapes, dried cranberries, or chopped apples.
Make it ahead: You can make the chicken salad ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.