Caesar Chicken Salad

Before You Get Started

CHICKEN: To simplify and speed up the process, use a rotisserie chicken. Store-bought rotisserie chicken is already moist, seasoned, and ready to be shredded—no cooking required. If you prefer, you can also try my homemade rotisserie chicken or my shredded chicken recipe. Both options are delicious and easy to prepare.

ADD MAYO IN SMALL AMOUNTS: Mix in the amount specified in the recipe first, then add more a tablespoon at a time until it reaches your preferred consistency. You want the salad to cling together, not swim in dressing.

CHILLING: The flavors meld beautifully as the salad rests; even two hours helps, but overnight is significantly better.

Ingredients: chicken, celery, lemon, mayo, parmesan, green onion, Dijon, white wine vinegar, Worcestershire, anchovy paste, croutons.

How To Make Caesar Chicken Salad

If you’re starting with a rotisserie chicken, no cooking is required. Here’s how it comes together.

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Remove the meat from a store-bought rotisserie chicken and shred it using two forks or cut it into small pieces. Both textures work well. You will need approximately 4 cups of cooked, shredded chicken. Some people prefer the texture achieved by using a stand mixer, which creates very fine pieces of chicken.

STEP 2: Mix the Dressing

In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, Dijon, white wine vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, anchovy paste, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until nice and smooth. Taste for salt and pepper and adjust accordingly.

***KITCHEN TIP: If you prefer a really smooth dressing, combine all the ingredients in a jar or tall container and blend using an immersion blender.

***FLAVOR TIP: Using a high-quality mayonnaise makes a significant difference in this recipe. I prefer to use my homemade mayo, but a good store-bought brand will work as well. Additionally, I believe that including anchovy paste is essential for achieving the ultimate umami flavor.

STEP 3: Combine

Add the chicken, celery, and green onion to the dressing and stir to combine. Taste and adjust. If you like your salad a bit looser, add more mayo, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the right consistency.

Two pictures showing how to mix up the chicken salad.

Step 4: Chill Before Serving

Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Allow the salad to rest, as it tastes noticeably better once the flavors have had time to meld together. Overnight is even better if you can plan ahead.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken salad is one of those recipes that works at just about any occasion: a quick lunch, meal prep, a baby shower, or bridal shower.

For sandwiches, you can use my sandwich bread, oatmeal bread, dinner rolls, or your favorite brand of store-bought bread. Adding a layer of lettuce and a slice of tomato provides a fresh contrast to the creamy salad. For a casual party or shower, serving chicken salad on croissants is always a hit with guests. Before topping with the second slice of bread, sprinkle with crushed croutons for the ultimate Caesar salad flavor.

For a lighter meal, serve the salad over a bed of lettuce, or set it out in a bowl with sturdy crackers for scooping. I like to add a sprinkle of crushed croutons to the chicken salad after scooping it onto the lettuce cups.

Salty potato chips, in my opinion, are a must, but there are other options that will still make a satisfying meal, whether it’s lunch or dinner. Serve with a wonderful cup of tomato soup, an easy fruit salad, and vegetables with this incredible dip, and you’ve got it made!

Overhead view of scoops of caesar chicken salad on a bed of lettuce.

Storage

MAKE AHEAD: This chicken salad can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance. In fact, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to meld. Just give it a quick stir before serving.

LEFTOVERS: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

FREEZING: It is not advisable to freeze mayo-based salads, as they tend to separate and become watery when thawed. This affects both the texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

CAN I USE CANNED CHICKEN?

Yes, canned chicken works in a pinch. Drain it thoroughly before using and break it apart with a fork. The texture will be softer than shredded rotisserie chicken, but the flavor remains good.

WHY IS MY CHICKEN SALAD WATERY?

The most common issue arises from undrained chicken. Whether you’re using canned or freshly cooked chicken, ensure it is well-drained and completely cooled before mixing. Additionally, be careful not to overmix once you add the mayonnaise, as this can break down the chicken and release moisture. Stir gently to maintain the texture.

More Delicious Salads

DID YOU KNOW….
rating and sharing recipes is one of the best ways you can support your favorite food bloggers? If you make this recipe, I would love if you clicked the stars when commenting below to leave a rating and/or sharing a photo on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest!

Malinda Linnebur

Hi there, and welcome to Countryside Cravings. My name is Malinda and I love food! Here you will find recipes to please the whole family. I hope you’ll stay and have a look around.

Caesar Chicken Salad

Before You Get Started