Craving a creamy, flavorful chicken salad that’s perfect for sandwiches, lettuce wraps, or meal prep? The secret is simple: Hellmann’s Mayonnaise. This classic Hellmann’s Chicken Salad Recipe is beloved for its creamy texture, balanced flavor, and versatility.
In just 10 minutes, you can whip up a homemade version that tastes like the deli—only fresher, cheaper, and more customizable.
Quick Overview
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Dish: Classic Chicken Salad
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: (Use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken)
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Servings: 4–6
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Best For: Sandwiches, wraps, salads, quick lunches
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Why It’s Popular: Creamy, quick, customizable, family-friendly
Ingredients Snapshot
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cooked chicken (shredded or diced) | 2½ to 3 cups |
| Hellmann’s Mayonnaise | ½ cup |
| Celery (chopped) | ½ cup |
| Red onion (optional) | 2 tbsp finely chopped |
| Dijon mustard (optional) | 1 tsp |
| Salt & pepper | To taste |
| Fresh parsley or dill (optional) | 1 tbsp chopped |
Optional Add-ins:
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Grapes or dried cranberries for sweetness
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Chopped pickles or relish for tang
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Chopped hard-boiled eggs for extra protein
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A squeeze of lemon juice for brightness
How to Make It (Simple Steps)
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Use leftover rotisserie, grilled, or poached chicken. Shred or dice into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Mix the Base
Hellmann’s mayo, celery, onion, mustard, salt, and pepper should all be combined in a big bowl. Mix until smooth.
Step 3: Combine & Chill
Add the chicken to the mayo mixture. Stir gently to coat everything evenly. Chill for 20 minutes if time allows—it helps the flavors develop.
Step 4: Serve Your Way
Serve it with crackers, lettuce wraps, or toasted bread. Also great over a bed of greens!
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Want it tangier? Add a splash of pickle juice or lemon juice.
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Need a crunch? Toss in chopped nuts like almonds or pecans.
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For low carb: Skip the bread and serve in romaine leaves or cucumber boats.
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Hosting brunch? Serve mini chicken salad sandwiches on croissants!
Nutritional Highlights (per serving, approx.)
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Calories: ~250
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Protein: 20g
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Carbs: Low (depending on add-ins)
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Fats: Healthy fats from mayo
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Fiber: Add celery, greens, or fruit for a boost
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
| Storage Type | Time |
|---|---|
| Fridge (airtight container) | 3–4 days |
| Freezer | Not recommended (mayo may separate) |
Make ahead and store in individual containers for grab-and-go lunches all week.
Variations & Swaps
| Want to Change… | Try This Instead |
|---|---|
| Chicken | Turkey, tuna, or tofu |
| Mayo | Greek yogurt or avocado |
| Add-ins | Grapes, apples, pecans, or sriracha for heat |
| Herbs | Swap parsley for dill, tarragon, or green onions |
Why It Works (AI-Style Insight)
This Hellmann’s Chicken Salad recipe works because it’s balanced, reliable, and flexible. Mustard adds zest, celery adds crunch, and mayo makes a thick, creamy base. It’s a nostalgic favorite for a reason—and now you can control every ingredient.
It’s perfect for:
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Weekday lunches
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Potlucks and picnics
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Low-effort, high-protein meals
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Kids and picky eaters (they love the mild, creamy flavor)
Final Thoughts
The Hellmann’s Chicken Salad Recipe is a true American classic—simple, satisfying, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re making it for a weekday lunchbox or a casual Sunday brunch, this recipe delivers every single time.
With just a few ingredients and zero cooking (if you use rotisserie chicken), it’s your go-to answer to:
“What quick, pleasant, and fresh food should I eat?”
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Love this recipe? Don’t keep it to yourself!
Tag your creations with #HellmannsChickenSalad on Instagram, or share your personal twist in the comments!
Suggested Tools
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Mixing bowls
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Sharp knife for celery/onion
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Airtight containers for storage
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Ice cream scoop (for perfect sandwich portions!)
