Chicken salad with celery

This chicken salad with celery combines tender chicken breasts, fresh celery, and aromatic herbs, all enveloped in a creamy mayonnaise dressing, making it a perfect quick lunch or light dinner. It's simple to prepare and packed with protein and flavour.

11 Feb 2026
Cook time 25 min
Prep time 12 min

Ingredients:

8 chicken breasts
2 tbsp dried parsley
1 tbsp black pepper
2 tsp dried basil
2 stalks celery
1 stalk onion
1/2 cup mayonnaise salad dressing
Chicken salad with celery

Chicken salad with celery is a refreshing and protein-packed dish that's perfect for lunch or a light dinner. This recipe combines tender chicken breasts with the aromatic flavors of dried parsley and basil, the crunch of fresh celery, and a creamy mayonnaise dressing. It's a simple yet flavorful dish that can be quickly prepared and enjoyed by the whole family.

Instructions:

1. Cook the Chicken Breasts:
- Start by placing the chicken breasts in a large pot.
- Fill the pot with enough water to cover the chicken breasts.
- Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the chicken simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and allow it to cool. Once cooled, chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
- While the chicken is cooling, finely chop the celery stalks.
- Peel and finely chop the onion.
3. Mix the Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped chicken, celery, and onion.
- Add 2 tbsp of dried parsley, 1 tbsp of black pepper, and 2 tsp of dried basil to the bowl.
- Add 1/2 cup of mayonnaise salad dressing to the bowl.
- Gently stir all ingredients together until well combined. Ensure that the mayonnaise coats the chicken and vegetables evenly.
4. Season to Taste:
- Taste the chicken salad and adjust the seasonings if necessary. You can add a little more black pepper or dried basil according to your preference. Optionally add some fresh parsley.
5. Chill (Optional):
- For best results, cover the bowl and refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve:
- Serve the chicken salad on a bed of lettuce, in a sandwich, or enjoy it as is.

In conclusion, chicken salad with dried basil and celery is a versatile and delicious dish that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. By following these steps and tips, you'll create a flavorful and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed on its own, on a sandwich, or even served on a bed of greens. Enjoy your homemade chicken salad!

Chicken salad with celery FAQ:

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken is cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can also check for doneness by cutting into the thickest part; there should be no pink meat remaining.

Can I make this chicken salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this chicken salad up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for best flavor and freshness.

What can I substitute for mayonnaise if I want a lighter option?

You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter option, or use a mixture of yogurt and a small amount of mustard for added flavor.

What sizes of chicken breasts should I use for this recipe?

It's best to use medium-sized chicken breasts, approximately 6-8 ounces each, to ensure they cook evenly and properly within the suggested cooking time.

How can I store leftover chicken salad?

Store leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For optimal freshness, avoid leaving it at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Tips:

- Cook the Chicken Properly: Make sure to cook the chicken breasts thoroughly until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This ensures the chicken is safe to eat and retains its juiciness.

- Cool the Chicken: Allow the chicken to cool completely before shredding or chopping it for the salad. This helps maintain the texture and prevents the mayonnaise from becoming too runny.

- Use Fresh Celery: For the best crunch, use fresh celery stalks. Make sure to wash them thoroughly and slice them thinly for even texture throughout the salad.

- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the amount of black pepper, parsley, and basil to suit your taste preferences. A small taste test before serving can help you decide if additional seasoning is needed.

- Chill Before Serving: For best results, allow the chicken salad to chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and enhances the overall taste.

- Serve with Options: Chicken salad can be served in various ways: on bread as a sandwich, with crackers as a snack, or on a bed of greens for a lighter meal.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 380kcal
Protein 55g
Carbohydrates 9g
Fiber 2.55g
Sugar 4.08g
Fat 13g

More recipes

Barbecued steaks with barbecued tomatoes, potatoes and onions

Enjoy tender barbecued steaks with smoky grilled vegetables.

07 Dec 2025

Chocolate decadence cake

Indulge in this rich, velvety Chocolate Decadence Cake.

25 Jan 2026

Maple-glazed candied sweet potatoes

Enjoy sweet potatoes baked in a rich maple glaze.

06 Dec 2025

Thumbprint cookies

Classic thumbprint cookies filled with your favourite jam.

09 Dec 2025

Banana-egg fluffy pancakes

Quick and healthy banana-egg fluffy pancakes for breakfast.

13 Jan 2026

Turkey bacon blt sandwich

A healthier twist on the classic BLT with turkey bacon.

30 Jan 2026

Easy bbq bake

A quick and flavorful BBQ baked chicken recipe for any occasion.

14 Jan 2026

Two-potato salad

A creamy two-potato salad with mustard and chives.

28 Dec 2025

Posts